Cylindrical Cistern Capacity Calculator Round Tank Capacity

Calculate round tank capacity in gallons, liters, cubic feet, and cubic meters

Tank Dimensions

How to Use This Cylindrical Tank Volume Calculator

This calculator helps you determine the exact capacity of any cylindrical tank, whether it's a water storage tank, fuel tank, silo, or pressure vessel. Simply follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Enter the diameter (or radius) and height of your tank.
  • Step 2: Select your measurement unit (Feet, Meters, Centimeters, or Inches).
  • Step 3: Choose whether to input diameter or radius.
  • Step 4: Optionally set the fill level percentage to calculate partial volume.
  • Step 5: Click "Calculate Tank Volume" to see results in multiple units.

The calculator instantly converts between cubic feet, cubic meters, US gallons, and liters — no manual conversions needed!

Why Accurate Cylindrical Tank Volume Matters

I've worked on countless projects where underestimating tank capacity caused major headaches - from running out of water during peak demand to installing undersized tanks that needed expensive replacements. That's exactly why I built this cylindrical tank volume calculator - to help homeowners, contractors, and engineers get their storage calculations right the first time.

Whether you're sizing a rainwater collection system, planning fuel storage for a generator, or designing an industrial pressure vessel, knowing your exact tank capacity in gallons, liters, or cubic meters changes everything. This calculator handles partial fill levels, multiple unit conversions, and even calculates water weight for structural planning.

Cylindrical Tank Volume Formula

The volume of a cylindrical tank is calculated using the formula:

V = π × r² × h

Where:

  • V = Volume of the tank
  • π = Pi (approximately 3.14159)
  • r = Radius of the tank (half the diameter)
  • h = Height of the tank

If you have the diameter instead of radius, remember: r = D ÷ 2

Once you have the volume in cubic units, use these conversion factors:

FromToMultiply By
Cubic Feet (ft³)US Gallons7.48052
Cubic Feet (ft³)Liters28.3168
Cubic Meters (m³)US Gallons264.172
Cubic Meters (m³)Liters1000

Let me save you from a tank sizing mistake...

I have seen it happen many times. Someone puts in a cylindrical tank thinking it is big enough only to find out later that it is not enough when they need it most. This could be a water storage tank that runs out of water when it is needed the most, or a fuel tank that cannot support critical systems. These mistakes are not just a problem — they can be very expensive.

That is why it is so important to understand how much a tank can hold before you put it in.

I have been working on construction sites and water systems, figuring out how much material is needed for over 10 years. I have learned one thing: small mistakes can lead to big problems. If the diameter or height of a tank is a little off, it can completely change how much it can hold. And when you are dealing with liquids, how much it can hold is everything.

This cylindrical tank volume calculator is made to take out the guesswork.

Use this calculator as your reliable solution — and avoid the kind of mistakes I have seen too often in the field.

Common Applications

Water Storage Tanks

Calculate the capacity of residential or commercial cylindrical water tanks. Cylindrical tanks are preferred for water storage because they distribute pressure evenly and are structurally efficient.

Fuel & Oil Tanks

Determine storage capacity for diesel, gasoline, or oil tanks. Many fuel stations use cylindrical underground storage tanks (USTs) that require accurate volume calculations for inventory management.

Agricultural Silos

Calculate grain storage capacity in cylindrical silos. Knowing the exact volume helps farmers plan harvest storage and manage inventory.

Industrial Pressure Vessels

Engineers use cylindrical tank calculations for designing boilers, reactors, and pressure vessels where round shapes provide optimal strength.

Cylindrical Tank Sizing Guide

Here are common cylindrical tank sizes and their approximate capacities:

Diameter (ft)Height (ft)Volume (ft³)GallonsLiters
3428.3212801
4562.84701,778
56117.88813,336
68226.21,6926,406
810502.73,76014,235

Pro Tips for Tank Sizing

Add 20% buffer: Always oversize water storage by 20% for dry periods and future needs.
Measure inside dimensions: Tank walls take up space - measure inside diameter for accurate capacity.
Account for dead space: Sediment buildup reduces usable capacity over time - plan for cleaning access.
Check local codes: Some areas require minimum water storage for fire safety or irrigation permits.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This calculator provides theoretical volume estimates. Actual tank capacity may vary due to manufacturing tolerances, temperature expansion, and sediment accumulation. Always consult tank specifications and local regulations before finalizing water storage systems.
- Calculate with confidence from the MultiTooSite team

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you calculate the volume of a cylindrical tank?
The volume of a cylindrical tank is calculated using the formula: Volume = π × r² × h, where r is the radius (half the diameter) and h is the height. For example, a tank with 4 ft diameter (2 ft radius) and 5 ft height has a volume of π × 2² × 5 = 62.83 cubic feet.
How many gallons is my cylindrical tank?
Multiply the cubic feet volume by 7.48052 to get US gallons. For metric: cubic meters × 264.172 = gallons, or liters ÷ 3.78541 = gallons.
What is the formula for tank capacity in liters?
For dimensions in meters: π × r² × h × 1000 = Liters. For dimensions in centimeters: (π × r² × h) ÷ 1000 = Liters. For dimensions in feet: cubic feet × 28.3168 = Liters.
How do I calculate the radius if I only have the diameter?
The radius is exactly half the diameter. If your tank has a diameter of 6 feet, the radius is 3 feet. This calculator lets you input either diameter or radius.
How much does the water weigh in a cylindrical tank?
Water weighs approximately 8.34 pounds per US gallon or 1 kilogram per liter. This calculator shows the total water weight at full capacity to help with structural load calculations for tank stands and foundations.
Why are cylindrical tanks so common?
Cylindrical tanks are popular because they have no corners where stress concentrates, making them structurally stronger. They also require less material for the same volume compared to rectangular tanks and are easier to manufacture and transport.
Nasir Badar
Nasir Badar: Founder & Construction Estimation Expert
With 10+ years in excavation, concrete, and site work, Nasir helps contractors and homeowners create accurate real-world estimates.