What Are Onion Tanks and Why Are They So Popular?

Managing liquid storage in remote or challenging environments is no easy task. Whether its civil construction, farming, public works, or spill recovery, you need storage thats fast, flexible, and tough. Thats where Liquid Containment stands out. Known for its durable and portable storage products, the company offers a standout solution: onion tanks.

These self-supporting, open-top tanks are one of the most reliable tools available for temporary liquid storage. They require minimal setup, are lightweight, and can handle a wide range of non-hazardous liquids, including water, oil, sewage, and other similar substances. Lets take a closer look at why these tanks are so popular across various industries.

What is an onion tank?

An onion tank is a lightweight, collapsible liquid storage tank with a round profile and floating collar made from closed-cell foam. As liquid fills the tank, the collar rises automatically, making it a self-erecting, frame-free design. When not in use, it folds flat for compact storage and transport.

Constructed from reinforced materials like PVC or TPU, these tanks are designed to resist UV exposure, shrinkage, and general wear and tear. With capacities ranging from a few hundred litres to tens of thousands, onion tanks are highly adaptable for many types of fieldwork.

Simple setup and quick mobility

One of the key reasons for the popularity of onion tanks is their rapid deployment capability. Theres no frame or tools requiredunpack, place on the ground, and fill. This makes them ideal for situations where time is critical, such as firefighting or environmental spill recovery.

Crews in remote work locations, such as drilling sites or agricultural projects, also benefit from the portability of these tanks. Since they dont need prepared ground surfaces or fixed foundations, they can be used on varied terrain with minimal setup.

Versatile industry use

Onion tanks from Liquid Containment are used across many sectors:

• Agriculture (rainwater collection, irrigation)

• Civil works and infrastructure (site water storage)

• Public and rescue services (firefighting and flood relief)

• Fish hatcheries and greywater storage

• Drilling and industrial water processing

Because theyre so easy to clean and relocate, onion tanks are ideal for temporary or mobile projects. When a job is completed, simply empty the tank, fold it up and proceed to the following location.

Built for durability

These tanks are designed to withstand harsh Australian environments. UV-treated materials, strong welded seams, and flexible design all contribute to long-lasting performance. Even in hot or rugged outdoor settings, onion tanks can be used repeatedly with little maintenance.

The open-top design also allows for quick filling from pumps or hoses, making manual cleaning easy. There are no narrow entry points or complicated fittings, just a clean, functional structure made for efficiency.

Custom options for your job

Every job site is unique, which is why Liquid Containment offers custom fittings, sizes, and accessories tailored to meet your specific needs. Standard fittings include a 2-inch outlet with a ball valve and a male camlock. Options, like carry bags, ground sheets, and top covers, are also available.

Whether youre storing potable water, sewage, or recovered runoff, their team can help you configure a setup that suits your needs. If you need something built to spec, send through a request, theyre happy to assist with tailored solutions.

Why onion tanks continue to grow in demand

The need for reliable, cost-effective, and mobile liquid storage is growing across Australia. Onion tanks meet this need with simple design, strong materials, and unbeatable versatility. For companies working in the field, whether on farms, civil sites, or emergency response scenes, onion tanks are a go-to choice.

Backed by Liquid Containments reputation for quality and support, these tanks deliver peace of mind along with performance. If youre looking for a smart, scalable way to manage liquid storage on the go, an onion tank might be exactly what your operation needs.