Construction sites often face a range of challenges, one of the most common being water accumulation. Whether it’s from rain, groundwater, or other sources, excess water can delay progress, compromise the structural integrity of a site, and create safety hazards. One effective solution that construction companies turn to is the use of frac tanks. Originally designed for the oil and gas industry, frac tanks have found their way into a variety of sectors, including construction, for their ability to handle large volumes of water efficiently and for their mobility.
What is Dewatering and Why is it Important in Construction?
Dewatering is the process of removing groundwater or surface water from a construction site to maintain a dry and stable working environment. In many cases, water can accumulate on construction sites due to rainfall, groundwater, or nearby water sources. If not properly managed, this excess water can cause delays, increase costs, and present safety hazards. That’s why a well-planned dewatering plan isn’t just helpful, it’s critical to maintaining project timelines and ensuring a safe worksite.
What is a Frac Tank?
A frac tank is a large, portable steel container designed to hold fluids such as water, wastewater, or chemicals. These versatile tanks are available in multiple sizes, with the 21,000-gallon (500 BBL) flat-top model being the most commonly used. Standard features include 4-inch butterfly valve drains, multiple manways for access, and an epoxy lining, allowing for seamless integration with pumps, filters, dewatering boxes, and other site equipment. While frac tanks are most commonly associated with the oil and gas industry, they are also used in construction, agriculture, and environmental management due to their versatility, portability, and capacity.
How Frac Tanks Support Dewatering on Construction Sites
Managing excess water is a persistent challenge on construction sites, especially in areas with high water tables, frequent groundwater or stormwater accumulation. Frac tanks offer a dependable, high-capacity solution for temporary water storage, enabling construction teams to maintain productivity while adhering to environmental and safety standards.
- High-Capacity Water Storage: Frac tanks are capable of storing tens of thousands of gallons of water, significantly more than standard containers, making them ideal for sites managing large volumes of surface or groundwater. Their size reduces the need for frequent tank changes or water transfers, streamlining site operations.
- Environmental Compliance and Protection: Designed for secure containment, frac tanks reduce the risk of spills, leaks, and runoff that could contaminate soil or nearby waterways. They help ensure that wastewater is properly contained, stored, and eventually disposed of according to environmental regulations, minimizing the impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
- Increased Efficiency: By centralizing water collection and storage, frac tanks eliminate the need for continuous pumping and reduce interruptions caused by water accumulation. This allows crews to stay focused on core construction activities, improving workflow, minimizing delays, and helping projects stay on schedule.
- On-Site Portability: Designed for mobility, frac tanks can be repositioned throughout a site as needed, ensuring water storage is always available at the most strategic locations. This adaptability is especially beneficial for large or multi-stage construction efforts.
Key Factors to Consider When Using Frac Tanks in Dewatering
There are a couple of key factors to consider when implementing a frac tank into your dewatering plan.
- Strategic Placement: Position frac tanks in locations where water naturally accumulates, such as low-lying areas or near site drainage points. Ensure the tanks are situated on stable, level ground to prevent tipping, shifting, or structural compromise during use.
- Regular Monitoring: Regularly inspect your frac tanks to confirm they are operating within capacity and not at risk of overflowing. Establish clear drainage pathways to direct water into the tanks efficiently, minimizing the risk of localized flooding or erosion around the site.
- Water Disposal: Once collected, the water stored in frac tanks must be disposed of according to environmental regulations. Options may include transport by a licensed waste management provider or repurposing the water for non-potable site activities, such as dust control or soil compaction.
Types of Frac Tanks for Different Dewatering Needs
There are two different types of frac tanks to consider when dewatering your construction sites:
- Open-Top Tanks with Weir Walls: Open-top frac tanks, with a 21,000-gallon capacity, are often used for water that contains sediment or sludge. These tanks can be equipped with internal weir walls to promote the separation of solids from water. As the sediment settles, water can be drawn from the top, simplifying the process of sludge removal and disposal. This setup is particularly effective for muddy or debris-laden water commonly encountered on active construction sites.
- Flat-Top Tanks: Flat-top frac tanks are the most commonly used option for general dewatering tasks, especially in stormwater management. These sealed tanks are designed to accommodate large volumes of runoff generated during heavy rainfalls. When connected to pumps, they efficiently remove stormwater from excavated areas, preventing flooding and maintaining safe working conditions.
Geneva Equipment: Your Trusted Partner For Bulk Liquid Storage
If you're working on a construction project that requires water management, consider incorporating frac tanks into your plan. At Geneva Equipment, we offer expert consultation to understand your specific needs and help you select the ideal frac tank solution. With a wide range of tanks available nationwide and reliable delivery services, we make it easy to get the equipment you need, when and where you need it. Contact us today to get started.