DCOM Volume I Appendix C

APPENDIX C: EXAMPLE ON ESTIMATING THE CAPACITY OF A STORAGE TANK

Estimate the minimum storage tank capacity for a solar powered system assuming 40L/Min for 6.5 hours per day, a daily water demand of 15,000L and the, morning evening peak pattern from shown on table below:

Step 1: Determine the daily water demand pattern
The first step is to determine how much water will be used at different times during the day in a specific community. This can be accomplished by observing the community water collection habits. Water Demand for each time period can be calculated based on percentages obtained in the community water collecting habits. The balance is determined by subtracting the demand from the supply and adding it to the current surplus/deficiency balance.

Step 2: Determine the minimum tank capacity
To ensure sufficient water to a community, there must be enough water to last until the trough of the next day. This calculation is represented as;
V_tank = V_max – V_min – V_final
V_tank = 4,500L – (–5,400L) – 600L = 9,300L

The water storage tanks should be able to hold at least 9,300 L to suffice the need of the community. The designer should use 10,000 L storage tanks or use two 5,000 L storage tanks in sizing of the needed capacity.

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