GlobTank

World’s first 3D printed drinking water tank

ABOUT THE PROJECT

GlobTank is responsible for the 3D printing of the world’s first drinking water tank. The tank, with a diameter of 8 meters, a height of 7.5 meters, and a capacity of 300 cubic meters, was constructed in the town of Barczewko. It has full PZH certification and will be connected to the municipal water network, providing drinking water to the local community. GlobTank developed an innovative construction design and obtained Poland’s first-ever permit to build a structure printed using 3D technology. Tanks produced in this way reduce the number of transports, thereby cutting CO2 emissions. The production process is automated and significantly shortens the time required to create the tank.

WHAT NEEDS DOES THE INNOVATION ADDRESS?

The tank produced by GlobTank stores drinking water during periods of low demand (e.g., at night), creating a reserve that is released into the network when there is greater demand—both for people and plants (e.g., during the day or the “gardening” season). By storing drinking water, the tank addresses the challenge of water shortages in Poland and around the world.

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES

The drinking water tank, created using 3D printing technology, was produced exclusively with a large-scale concrete 3D printer. This approach significantly reduced the number of transports needed for the construction site, thereby lowering CO2 emissions. The tank was printed without traditional formwork or reinforcement. The printing process took 38 hours, compared to approximately two weeks using conventional methods. Thanks to 3D printing technology, the tank’s wall thickness was customized to perfectly match internal stress distributions—a feat impossible with traditional methods. This also contributed to further reducing the carbon footprint. The process involved minimal personnel, addressing the need for workforce reduction and automation due to labor shortages.

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