Gasometers

Gasometers

Gasometers are large, cylindrical structures used for storing and regulating the pressure of gases, particularly natural gas. They were commonly used in the 19th and early 20th centuries, before the widespread use of pipelines and other modern gas distribution systems. Gasometers typically consist of a large, hollow cylindrical tank, often made of steel, with a movable roof that rises and falls as the gas is pumped in or out. The tank is usually supported by a framework of metal girders or concrete pillars. Gasometers were originally designed to store coal gas, which was used for lighting and heating in homes and businesses. The gas was produced by heating coal in a process called gasification, and was then purified and compressed before being pumped into the gasometer. When the gas was needed, the roof of the gasometer would be lowered, forcing the gas out through pipes and into the distribution system. Gasometers were also used to store other gases, such as oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen, for industrial and scientific purposes. In some cases, they were used to store liquid gases, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is stored at extremely low temperatures to keep it in a liquid state. Today, gasometers are largely obsolete, as modern gas distribution systems use pipelines and other storage methods that are more efficient and cost-effective. However, many gasometers have been preserved as historic landmarks or repurposed for other uses, such as housing, offices, or cultural centers.

gas storage, pressure regulation, coal gas, pipelines, historic landmarks

— Joseph Walker

CITATION : "Joseph Walker. 'Gasometers.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=347227 (Accessed on August 02, 2025)"