gasholder

plural gasholders

1. A large cylindrical tank used for storing gas, especially town gas (1870s-1940s) or natural gas (1950s-present). Types include one with telescopic sections with wet seals in between and one with a nontelescoping tank and a dry seal.

   Its first big task was in 1915, at a fire at the Southern Laundry, next to the Great Western Hotel; its last major action was in 1942, when, after an enemy air attack, it helped to save the big gasholder at Swindon Works.

   1957 March 28, “Notes and News: G.W.R. Fire Engine to be Preserved”, in Railway Magazine, page 210

   Synonyms: gasometer