Niles Steel Tank, a leading manufacturer of custom water storage tanks and a subsidiary of Bradford White Corp., announces that its proprietary Ultonium tank lining will now incorporate Microban antimicrobial technology to provide additional protection against the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface of the interior tank lining.

"Microban enhances our Ultonium technology and offers our customers an additional layer of protection*," said Jeremy Waller, vice president and general manager of Niles Steel Tank. "We're delivering an unprecedented solution that no other water storage tank manufacturer can offer."

Niles Steel Tank water storage tanks are the only water storage products that offer customers this additional level of tank protection at no additional charge. This innovation is a direct outcome of Niles Steel Tank's ongoing research and development efforts in response to a wide range of market, technology, regulatory and environmental trends.

Ultonium tank lining with Microban antimicrobial product protection is now a standard feature on tank-type water heaters from Niles Steel Tank as well. Ultonium prolongs the life of the water storage tanks by keeping corrosive elements from reaching the steel of the tank and other components. The addition of Microban antimicrobial technology protects the Ultonium tank lining against the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface of the lining.

The Microban antimicrobial technology is integrated into the Ultonium formula and then applied to the inside of the tank, coils and/or flue tubes during the manufacturing process. After application, the Ultonium lining is baked on at approximately 1,600 degrees for a hardened, long-lasting finish. Through this exclusive manufacturing process, the Microban antimicrobial technology becomes a permanent part of the coating that continues its protection for the lifetime of the water heater.

Antimicrobials have been safely used for many years. The Microban antimicrobial technology used in Niles Steel Tank products is silver-based, which has been used for decades in a range of applications, and carries both the EPA and European Union approval for direct food contact.

Microban has been a trusted brand and leader in antimicrobial technologies since 1984. Their technologies can be found in thousands of consumer and industrial products around the world, including a variety of plumbing fixtures

*Microban antimicrobial technology protects the product and does not protect users or others.