Vol.26, No.1, 2026, pp. 48–60
https://doi.org/10.69644/ivk-2026-01-0048

ELEVATED STORAGE TANKS-WATER TOWERS: LAYOUTS, TYPES AND STRESSES

Marko Jarić1* , Sanja Petronić2 , Zagorka Brat3 , Igor Svetel1

1) Innovation Centre of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Belgrade, SERBIA

M. Jarić https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3052-1056 ; I. Svetel https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7821-1412 ,

*email: mjaric81@gmail.com

2) Institute of General and Physical Chemistry, Belgrade, SERBIA

Sanja Petronić https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1205-081X 

3) NIS a.d., Novi Sad, SERBIA  Z. Brat https://orcid.org/0009-0009-0325-8158

 

Abstract

Water towers represent a specific class of elevated structures whose structural integrity is governed by the interaction between geometric configuration, material properties, loading conditions, and long-term degradation processes. Many existing water towers were designed several decades ago and are currently operating beyond their original design life which raises concerns regarding their safety and serviceability under contemporary loading requirements. This paper provides a structured overview of water towers from the perspective of structural integrity and remaining life considerations. Particular emphasis is placed on wind and seismic loading effects, material behaviour, and assessment challenges relevant to existing structures. Typical structural configurations and materials are reviewed, and key issues related to inspection, analysis, and integrity evaluation are discussed. The paper aims to support engineers and researchers involved in the assessment and maintenance of water towers by highlighting critical aspects influencing their structural performance and long-term reliability.

Keywords: • water towers • hydrostatic pressure • reinforced concrete • layout 

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