Center Enamel Provides Glass-Fused-to-Steel Drinking Water Tanks for the Panama Drinking Water Project
Shijiazhuang Zhengzhong Technology Co., Ltd (Center Enamel), a global leader in the design, fabrication, and supply of bolted storage tank solutions, has successfully completed a vital drinking water infrastructure project in Panama. The project involved the provision of three high-capacity Glass-Fused-to-Steel (GFS) tanks, each measuring an impressive 15.29 meters in diameter and 9 meters in height, all equipped with durable aluminum dome roofs. Completed and fully operational in April 2025, this initiative underscores Center Enamel's unwavering commitment to providing robust, reliable, and hygienic solutions for potable water storage, contributing significantly to the well-being of communities in Panama.
Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of public health. As Panama continues its journey of development and progress, ensuring a reliable and high-quality water supply for its growing population is of paramount importance. This necessitates the implementation of advanced water infrastructure solutions that are not only efficient and durable but also capable of preserving the pristine quality of the stored water.
Recognizing this critical need, Center Enamel collaborated closely with local authorities and engineering partners in Panama to provide a state-of-the-art drinking water storage facility. The selection of Center Enamel's Glass-Fused-to-Steel (GFS) tanks for this project was a strategic decision, driven by the exceptional properties of this advanced material and Center Enamel's proven expertise in delivering world-class water storage solutions.
Project Overview
Project Name: Panama Drinking Water Project
Application: Drinking Water Storage
Project Location: Panama
Tank Specifications:
Diameter: φ15.29 meters
Height: 9 meters
Quantity: 3 sets
Roof Type: Aluminum Dome Roof
Completion: Construction completed and project fully operational in April 2025.
The Superior Choice: Glass-Fused-to-Steel for Potable Water Storage
Glass-Fused-to-Steel (GFS) technology represents a pinnacle in storage tank engineering, seamlessly fusing the inherent strength and flexibility of steel with the remarkable corrosion resistance and hygienic properties of glass. This unique synergy is achieved through a meticulous manufacturing process where a specially formulated glass enamel is applied to a high-strength steel substrate and then fired at high temperatures (820°C-930°C). This thermal process creates a chemical and mechanical bond, resulting in an inert, impermeable, and exceptionally durable coating that is ideally suited for the demanding requirements of potable water storage.
The selection of GFS technology for the Panama Drinking Water Project offers a multitude of critical advantages:
Unparalleled Corrosion Resistance: The aggressive nature of water, even treated potable water over extended periods, can lead to corrosion in conventional steel tanks. However, the Glass-Fused-to-Steel coating forms an impenetrable barrier, completely isolating the steel from the water and the external environment. This eliminates the risk of rust and corrosion, ensuring the long-term structural integrity of the tanks and preventing any contamination of the stored drinking water. This is particularly vital in Panama's often humid and tropical climate, which can exacerbate corrosion issues.
Ensuring Water Purity and Hygiene: Maintaining the purity and safety of drinking water is non-negotiable. The smooth, glossy, and chemically inert surface of the GFS coating is non-reactive and does not leach any harmful substances into the stored water. Furthermore, this inert surface prevents the adhesion and growth of algae, bacteria, and other microorganisms, ensuring that the water remains clean, fresh, and safe for consumption over extended storage periods. Center Enamel's GFS tanks for potable water applications meet stringent international standards, such as NSF/ANSI 61, which certifies the safety of materials for use in drinking water systems.
Exceptional Durability and Longevity: Drinking water infrastructure requires long-term reliability and minimal maintenance. GFS tanks are engineered for exceptional durability and a long service life exceeding 30 years with proper maintenance. The robust steel substrate provides structural strength, while the fused glass coating offers superior resistance to weathering, abrasion, and chemical attack. This ensures a cost-effective and sustainable solution for Panama's water storage needs, minimizing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Modular Design for Efficient Transportation and Installation: Center Enamel's GFS tanks feature a modular, bolted construction. This innovative design offers significant logistical advantages, particularly for projects in diverse geographical locations like Panama. The tank components are precisely manufactured and coated at Center Enamel's state-of-the-art facilities and then efficiently transported to the project site. On-site assembly is straightforward and relatively quick, requiring less specialized equipment and manpower compared to traditional welded or concrete tank construction. This streamlined installation process minimizes project timelines and reduces overall construction costs.
Protection Against Contamination with Aluminum Dome Roofs: To further safeguard the quality of the stored drinking water, each of the three GFS tanks in the Panama project is equipped with a high-quality aluminum dome roof. These lightweight yet robust roofs provide an effective barrier against external contaminants such as dust, debris, rainwater, and sunlight. By preventing direct exposure to sunlight, the aluminum dome roofs also help to minimize algae growth and maintain a more consistent water temperature within the tanks, further preserving water quality.
Project Specifications in Detail: Three Robust Tanks for Panama
The Panama Drinking Water Project involved the design, fabrication, and supply of three identical, high-capacity GFS tanks, each meticulously engineered to meet the specific demands of potable water storage:
Tank Dimensions: Each tank boasts a significant diameter of 15.29 meters and a height of 9 meters. These substantial dimensions provide a large storage volume, ensuring a reliable of clean water to meet the needs of the served communities in Panama. The precise engineering of these dimensions optimizes storage capacity while maintaining structural integrity and stability.
Aluminum Dome Roofs: As previously mentioned, each tank is fitted with a corrosion-resistant aluminum dome roof. The lightweight yet strong aluminum construction ensures long-term durability and provides effective protection against external elements, maintaining the purity of the stored drinking water. The dome shape facilitates efficient drainage and minimizes the risk of water ponding.
Material Quality and Standards: Center Enamel's GFS tanks are manufactured using high-quality steel that adheres to stringent international standards. The glass enamel coating is formulated for optimal chemical resistance and durability in potable water applications, meeting certifications such as NSF/ANSI 61. The bolted connections are designed with high-strength fasteners and appropriate sealing materials to ensure a leak-proof and long-lasting structure.
Center Enamel: A Global Leader in Providing Safe Water Solutions
With decades of experience and a steadfast commitment to quality and innovation, Shijiazhuang Zhengzhong Technology Co., Ltd (Center Enamel) has established itself as a trusted global provider of storage tank solutions for a wide range of applications, including critical potable water infrastructure projects like the one in Panama. Our expertise encompasses:
Advanced GFS Technology: Pioneering and continuously refining our Glass-Fused-to-Steel technology to deliver superior performance and durability.
Stringent Quality Control: Implementing rigorous quality control measures throughout the design, manufacturing, and delivery processes to ensure that our tanks meet the highest international standards.
Customized Solutions: Offering tailored tank designs and specifications to meet the unique requirements of each project and application.
Global Project Experience: Successfully completing numerous water storage projects in over 100 countries worldwide, demonstrating our global reach and expertise in diverse environmental conditions.
Comprehensive Support: Providing end-to-end support, from initial consultation and design to manufacturing, transportation, installation guidance, and after-sales service.
The Panama Drinking Water Project: A Testament to Quality and Reliability
The successful completion and operational status of the Panama Drinking Water Project in April 2025 stand as a testament to the quality, reliability, and efficiency of Center Enamel's Glass-Fused-to-Steel tank technology. These three high-capacity tanks, equipped with protective aluminum dome roofs, now serve as a crucial component of Panama's water infrastructure, ensuring a secure and hygienic supply of clean drinking water for the communities they serve.
Center Enamel is proud to have played a vital role in this significant project, contributing our expertise and advanced GFS technology to enhance the quality of life and promote sustainable development in Panama. This project exemplifies our ongoing commitment to providing innovative and dependable solutions for water storage challenges worldwide, reinforcing our position as a global leader in the bolted storage tank industry. We look forward to continued collaboration with communities and partners globally to deliver impactful solutions for essential infrastructure needs.