Calculating Gallons in a Tank

Tank Volume Formulas:

\[ V_{gal} = \frac{L \times W \times H}{231} \text{ (rectangular)} \] \[ V_{gal} = \frac{\pi \times r^2 \times h}{231} \text{ (cylindrical)} \]

Tank Shape:

Length:

inches

Width:

inches

Height:

inches

Tank Volume (gallons):

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1. What is a Tank Volume Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the volume of liquid a tank can hold in gallons based on its dimensions and shape.

Purpose: It helps professionals and DIYers determine tank capacity for storage, aquariums, fuel tanks, and other liquid containers.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses different formulas based on tank shape:

\[ V_{gal} = \frac{L \times W \times H}{231} \text{ (rectangular)} \] \[ V_{gal} = \frac{\pi \times r^2 \times h}{231} \text{ (cylindrical)} \]

Where:

\( V_{gal} \) — Volume in gallons
\( L, W, H \) — Length, width, height in inches (rectangular tank)
\( r, h \) — Radius and height in inches (cylindrical tank)
231 — Conversion factor (cubic inches per gallon)

Explanation: The calculator first computes the volume in cubic inches, then converts to gallons by dividing by 231.

3. Importance of Tank Volume Calculation

Details: Accurate volume calculations ensure proper sizing for storage needs, chemical dosing, and system design.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

Select your tank shape (rectangular or cylindrical)
Enter all dimensions in inches
For cylindrical tanks, measure radius (half of diameter)
All values must be > 0

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why divide by 231?
A: There are exactly 231 cubic inches in one US gallon, which is the standard conversion factor.

Q2: Can I use this for metric measurements?
A: No, this calculator requires inches as input. Convert cm to inches first (1 cm = 0.393701 inches).

Q3: What about irregular tank shapes?
A: This calculator only handles standard rectangular and cylindrical shapes. For irregular shapes, use approximation methods.

Q4: Does this account for tank thickness?
A: No, measurements should be internal dimensions. Subtract wall thickness if measuring externally.

Q5: How accurate is the calculation?
A: It's mathematically precise for perfect geometric shapes. Real-world tanks may vary slightly.