Our Fluid Category 5 AB Air Gap Water Tank collection is specifically designed to meet the highest safety standards for water contamination prevention. In many commercial and industrial settings, there is a significant risk of backflow—where contaminated water flows back into the public mains supply. These tanks, often referred to as "Break Tanks," provide a physical "AB Air Gap" that makes backflow impossible, ensuring your site remains compliant with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.
The UK water industry categorizes fluids based on their level of risk to health. Fluid Category 5 represents the highest risk, involving fluids containing faecal matter, human/animal waste, or pathogens. Typical environments requiring Cat 5 protection include:
Agricultural Sites: Livestock watering and wash-down areas.
Laboratories & Hospitals: Where hazardous biological materials are present.
Industrial Plants: For wash-down of chemical processing equipment.
Abattoirs & Waste Facilities: Anywhere severe contamination is possible.
The "AB Air Gap" is a non-mechanical backflow prevention arrangement. These tanks are fitted with a specialized weir overflow located below the inlet but above the maximum potential water level. If the tank’s internal valves fail, the excess water spills out through the weir rather than reaching the inlet pipe. This physical gap ensures that the mains water supply can never come into contact with the water inside the tank, even under vacuum conditions.
All tanks in this collection are manufactured from high-quality, UV-stabilized polyethylene and are WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) approved. Key features include:
Pre-Fitted Components: Tanks come with a screened overflow and weir assembly pre-installed to exact regulatory specifications.
Potable Certification: Although designed for high-risk zones, the materials are food-grade and safe for drinking water.
Wide Capacity Range: Solutions are available from compact 300-litre units for small facilities up to massive 30,000-litre industrial tanks.
Ready for Inspection: Using these pre-configured tanks simplifies the process of passing inspections from local water authorities.
Installing a Cat 5 system is a serious regulatory requirement. With over 20 years of experience, our team at The Tank Shop provides the technical expertise to help you select the correctly sized break tank for your flow requirements. We work closely with leading manufacturers like Enduramaxx to ensure every unit we ship is ready to protect both your facility and the public water supply.
