BaffledWater Tanks

Baffled tanks have internal walls or plates that break up the body of liquid into smaller sections. This restricts the wave action that builds up when a part-full tank is moved, so instead of one large surge you get several smaller, more manageable ones. The result is a more stable load, less strain on the tank walls and mountings, and a safer tow or transfer.

Not necessarily — baffling is mainly a benefit when a tank is moved while part-full, such as on a bowser, trailer or vehicle-mounted unit. For tanks that stay in one place once filled, a standard non-baffled tank is usually perfectly adequate and often more cost-effective. If in doubt, tell us how the tank will be used and we can advise whether baffling is worth specifying.

Baffled tanks are commonly available in polyethylene (MDPE/HDPE) and GRP (fibreglass), each with the baffle plates moulded or fitted internally at manufacture. Polyethylene tanks tend to be lighter and better suited to smaller mobile bowsers, while GRP offers greater rigidity for larger fixed or vehicle-mounted units. Both can be specified in potable or non-potable grades depending on what you're storing.

Yes, provided the tank is manufactured to WRAS standards and constructed from an approved food-grade material. Baffling itself doesn't affect potability — it's the tank material, coatings and fittings that determine whether it's safe for wholesome water. Always check the WRAS approval status if the tank will be used to carry or store drinking water.

Baffled tanks range from small bowser-sized units of a few hundred litres up to several thousand litres for larger transportation or bulk storage applications. The right size depends on your vehicle payload, trailer capacity or intended use — agricultural, industrial or construction site water supply, for example. Our team can help match tank dimensions and capacity to your towing or lifting limits.

Baffled tanks generally use the same inlet, outlet and breather fittings as standard tanks, but mounting and securing points matter more given their use in transit. Make sure the tank is properly strapped or bolted to a trailer or vehicle bed to prevent movement, and check that baffle placement doesn't obstruct any internal fittings you need, such as level gauges. For bespoke configurations, our team can advise on fitting positions before you order.