Water Tank Design and Cost Analysis for Fire Brigade Vehicles

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background

The local fire brigade is preparing for anticipated summer heatwaves and required a backup water tank suitable for mounting on a customized utility vehicle. A water tank is an elevated structure designed to provide pressurized water for distribution and emergency fire protection. The concept of water tanks dates back to 1889, initially influenced by Maughn, and later developed by engineer Edwin Ruud. The first notable water tank, a 168-foot-tall steel Marston water tower, was built in 1897. Given the historical significance of water tanks, this assignment focuses on designing a water tank, selecting a compatible trailer, and comparing it to a cubic alternative.

1.2 Purpose of this Report

The purpose of this report is to design and estimate the cost of a water tank for the local fire brigade. Additionally, this report aims to compare the proposed design with a cube for better decision-making.

2.0 Conditions

2.1 Observations

The water tank will be installed on a RX 4x4 Single Cab Chassis utility vehicle with a towing capacity of 3.

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5 tonnes and braked towing capacity. The vehicle's cost is $39,725.

2.2 Assumptions

This report assumes that material costs per square meter will not exceed future predicted inflation rates. It also assumes that manufacturing will be error-free, avoiding unforeseen costs related to labor wages or materials.

3.0 Body

3.1 Surface Area and Volume Calculations

The designed water tank comprises three shapes: a cylinder, a rectangle, and a rhombus. The dimensions of the proposed design are illustrated in Diagram 6.12. The calculated volume of the water tank is 2.8125m³ (Refer to Appendix 6.2), equivalent to approximately 8775 liters.

The surface area is calculated as 9.015m² (Refer to Appendix 6.2).

For comparison, a cubic water tank is considered with dimensions shown in Diagram 6.11. The cubic tank's volume is 1.95m³ (Refer to Appendix 6.1), holding approximately 1950 liters, and its surface area is 9.375m².

3.2 Costings

Utilizing a quote from Tanks-R-Us, the estimated manufacturing cost of the designed water tank can be determined. The required material, steel, is quoted at $150 per square meter, and labor costs are fixed at $400. This results in a total manufacturing cost of approximately $2366.75.

3.3 Discussion

Based on calculations, both designed water tanks meet the requirements of the RX 4x4 Single Cab Chassis, with both tanks being below its 3.5-tonne capacity. It's important to note that additional costs for fueling the vehicle may be incurred due to the larger tank.

4.0 Recommendations

Considering the costings and tank specifications, it is recommended that the local rural brigade should seriously consider purchasing the RX 4x4 Single Cab Chassis for their water tank needs.

5.0 Conclusion

In conclusion, the designed water tank is an economical and feasible choice for the local rural brigade. It is cost-effective and relatively straightforward to manufacture. Further research and development should be conducted to refine the water tank's manufacturing process.

6.0 Appendix

6.1 Calculations for Cubic Water Tank

Surface Area:
6 x (1.25m x 1.25m) = 9.37m²
Volume:
Length x Width x Height = 1.25m x 1.25m x 1.25m = 1.95m³ (Capacity: 1950L)
Costing – Steel:
$150 per square meter x 9.375m² = $1406.25 + $400 = Total Cost: $1806.25

6.2 Calculations for Designed Water Tank (Cylinder and Rectangles)

Cylinder:
Volume: Π x (0.675m x 0.675m) x 1.5m = 2.15m³ (Capacity: 2150L)
Surface Area: 2πrh + πr² = 7.79m²
Costing – Steel:
$150 per square meter x 7.79m² = $1168.50 + $400 = Total Cost: $1568.50

Rectangular Prisms:
Large Rectangular Prism: Volume: 1.55m x 0.5m x 0.5m = 0.3875m³
Small Rectangular Prism: Volume: 0.85m x 0.5m x 0.5m = 0.2125m³
Triangular Prism: Volume: 0.0625m³
Total Volume: 0.6625m³
Total Tonnes: 2.8125
Surface Area:
Large Rectangular Prism: 1.35m x 0.5m = 0.675m²
Small Rectangular Prism: (1.35m - 0.25m - 0.25m) x 0.5m = 0.425m²
Triangular Prism: 0.125m²
Total Surface Area: 1.225m²
Costing – Steel:
$150 per square meter x 1.225m² = $183.75 + $400 = Total Cost: $583.75