An Analytical Study of the Structural Integrity of an LPG Storage Tank under Wind Load

Abstract:

Since the wall thicknesses of most large LPG storage tanks are thin while their diameters are large, their structural integrity is one of the most important design factors. The tanks are mainly located near the waterfront for efficient transport and accessibility. This leads to exposure to wind loads, which should be considered in the design of the tanks. This paper describes an analytical technique for determining the structural integrity of a 45m diameter-LPG storage tank in the case of a wind load based on API 620 code. A finite element model for the tank was made using shell elements and analyzed under 50 m/s wind. The calculated maximum von-Mises stress was 103 MPa whereas the yield strength of tank’s material is 222 MPa. This result shows that the structural integrity of the tank is assured.

• Periodical: Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volume 741)
• Pages: 115-118
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMM.741.115
• Online since: March 2015
• Authors: Bong Kwan Park*, Jae Min Kim, Chang Min Keum, C. Kim, Heon Oh Choi
• Keywords: LPG Storage Tank, Structural Integrity, Wind Load

References

[1] API 620, "Design and Construction of Large, Welded, Low-pressure Storage Tanks (2013).

[2] ASCE 7-10, Wind Provisions and Effects on Wood Design and Construction , (2012).