Tank Dimensions from Gallons: How to Size a Vertical or Horizontal Tank
Tank sizes vary by maker, but the math does not. Use this formula to check if a tank fits your space before asking for drawings.
Questions? Call +1 (602) 921-6133Get the Industrial Container Buyer's Guide + FDA spec sheet and price in 24 h
Pick your product, leave an email. No calls unless you ask for one.
TL;DR: A cylinder holds gallons = (3.1416 x radius² x height in inches) / 231. A 1,000 gallon vertical tank with a 64 in diameter needs about 72 in of straight height for liquid alone; real tanks are taller because of the dome, outlet and headspace. Always confirm with the maker's drawing. LT Plastics, an authorized Bonar Plastics distributor based in Phoenix, AZ, supplies HDPE bulk containers, hoppers, tanks and speed bumps to US plants.
Quick Facts
| What | Value |
|---|---|
| Cubic inches per gallon | 231 |
| Gallons per cubic foot | about 7.48 |
| 1,000 gal liquid volume | about 133.7 cu ft |
| Height for 1,000 gal at 64 in diameter | about 72 in (liquid only) |
| Height for 1,000 gal at 87 in diameter | about 39 in (liquid only) |
The Formula
Vertical tank height (in) = gallons x 231 / (3.1416 x r²), with r = diameter / 2 in inches.
Example 1,000 gal at 64 in diameter: r = 32, r² = 1,024, 3.1416 x 1,024 = 3,217. 231,000 / 3,217 = about 72 in.
Horizontal tanks: length = gallons x 231 / (3.1416 x r²) as well, but they need saddles or a cradle and more floor area.
Before You Order: Site Checks
Vertical vs Horizontal vs Totes
For food contact, read food-grade tank requirements.
What We Know That Buyers Often Miss
Next Step
Send gallons, available footprint, ceiling height and liquid in the quote form below.
FAQ
What are the dimensions of a 1,000 gallon tank?
It depends on the model. At 64 in diameter, the liquid needs about 72 in of height; check drawings for the full height.
How many gallons in a tank 48 in wide and 60 in tall?
3.1416 x 24² x 60 / 231 = about 470 gallons.
Sources
Ready to spec your containers?
Browse our bulk bins and bulk storage containers with full dimensions and load ratings, or send your specs and get a spec sheet plus freight quote within 24 hours. Ships nationwide + Mexico.
Have a similar project? Tell us in 30 seconds
Get a personalized proposal with pricing, lead time and product recommendations.
Part of the topic guide
IBC Totes and Plastic Storage Tanks: Sizes, Uses and Buying