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Tank volume calculator

It calculates the litres held in a vertical cylindrical tank for a given liquid level and, if you enter the outlet flow rate, how long it takes to empty. Useful to size a buffer tank, check a filler's autonomy or estimate transfer time between tanks.

Tank volume

Capacity of a flat-bottomed cylindrical tank and emptying time.

Volume—L
Volume—m³
Emptying time—min

V = π × (Ø/2)² × height · flat bottom

Pre-selection and estimation tool. Check the result against the real data of your product and manufacturer.

Formulas

  • Volume (L) = π × (inner Ø ÷ 2)² × liquid height ÷ 1,000,000 (dimensions in mm)
  • Volume (m³) = volume (L) ÷ 1000
  • Emptying time (min) = volume (L) ÷ flow rate (L/min)

Worked example

A tank with 1,000 mm inner diameter and 1,200 mm of liquid height holds 942.5 L (0.94 m³). Feeding a filler that consumes 80 L/min, it gives 11.8 minutes of autonomy: if the upstream batch changeover takes longer, the buffer must grow or the batches must be staggered.

Limits and how to use it

  • Flat-bottom cylindrical tanks only: conical or torispherical heads add volume that must be calculated separately.
  • Usable volume is less than geometric volume: subtract the pump's minimum level and the top filling margin.
  • Emptying time assumes constant flow; under gravity the flow drops as the level falls.

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Written byÁngel Coronil García · Founder and Engineering Director
Industrial engineer, founder and engineering director of SOLINDAC. He designs packaging and process machinery, special-purpose machines and line automation from Villamartín (Cádiz, Spain), after years as technical director at a packaging machinery manufacturer. Professional profile →

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