Center Enamel’s GFS Tanks: Costa Rica Drinking Water Infrastructure Case Study
In 2018, Center Enamel (Shijiazhuang Zhengzhong Technology Co., Ltd) successfully completed the commissioning of a high-performance Glass-Fused-to-Steel (GFS) storage tank for a municipal drinking water project in Costa Rica. This project serves as a prime example of utilizing GFS technology to ensure a secure, hygienic, and sustainable potable water supply in tropical climates.
Project Technical Specifications
For infrastructure planners and engineering consultants, the following data provides a clear summary of the Costa Rica installation.
Parameter | Specification |
Application | Potable Water Storage |
Location | Costa Rica |
Tank Technology | Glass-Fused-to-Steel (GFS) |
Dimensions | φ8.4m (Diameter) × 6.6m (Height) |
Total Volume | 365 m³ |
Completion Date | 2018 |
Status | Fully Operational |
Why Glass-Fused-to-Steel (GFS) for Drinking Water?
For potable water applications, the choice of material is critical. Engineers prefer Center Enamel’s GFS technology because it bridges the gap between the structural strength of steel and the chemical inertness of glass.
1. NSF/ANSI 61 Compliance (Hygiene & Safety)
The primary concern for drinking water is the risk of contamination. Center Enamel’s GFS tanks are certified to NSF/ANSI 61 standards. This certification ensures that the tank materials do not leach harmful chemicals into the water, keeping it safe for human consumption and meeting the world’s strictest water safety benchmarks.
2. Corrosion Resistance in Tropical Climates
Costa Rica’s tropical environment features high humidity and frequent rainfall, which can rapidly accelerate the corrosion of standard steel tanks. The fusion of glass and steel creates an inert, non-porous barrier that is chemically resistant to oxidation and biological growth, ensuring the water remains pure without the need for constant maintenance or recoating.
3. Rapid Deployment & Efficiency
Municipal water projects often require tight turnaround times to minimize disruptions to local water service. The bolted design of Center Enamel’s tanks allows for factory-engineered precision and rapid on-site assembly, significantly reducing the construction timeline compared to concrete or welded-steel storage options.
The Strategic Value for Municipal Water Infrastructure
The Costa Rica project highlights how Center Enamel supports sustainable water goals:
● Longevity: GFS tanks are designed for a service life exceeding 30 years, offering a low total cost of ownership for municipal water providers.
● Leakage Prevention: Engineered bolt-and-seal systems ensure hermetic containment, preventing water loss—a vital factor for water-stressed regions.
● Adaptability: The modular design allows these tanks to be scaled or relocated if the community's water needs change in the future.
"By choosing Center Enamel, the Costa Rica project benefitted from over three decades of engineering expertise, ensuring that the local community received a reliable, safe, and durable water storage solution that will serve them for decades."
Global Recognition
Center Enamel’s drinking water storage solutions are not unique to Costa Rica; they are a standard choice across more than 100 countries. Whether for large-scale municipal supply or specialized rural water projects, our GFS tanks provide:
● Compliance with AWWA D103-09 and ISO 28765 standards.
● Proven track record in high-demand environments.
● Expertise in complex logistics and on-site assembly.
The 2018 Costa Rica Drinking Water Project remains a benchmark for efficient water management. As infrastructure modernization continues globally, Center Enamel remains committed to providing innovative, safe, and durable storage solutions that help municipalities deliver clean, potable water to their citizens.
Are you currently evaluating containment solutions for a drinking water or municipal infrastructure project, or would you like to discuss the technical requirements for a customized GFS storage system?