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A Case Study & Finite Element Analysis on Initial Liquefaction Tank and Its Supporting Structure
Subject area: Science,Engineering and Technology · Area of research: Initial Liquefaction Tank
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I11-1717697
Abstract
This article describes a detailed computational investigation and some prior experimental work of a large, elevated initial liquefaction tank and its associated support structure. Because the tank holds a high-density liquid and is subjected to very high dynamic loads, it is important to properly assess the structural integrity and adequate design for the tank and its supporting structures. The assessment is accomplished using finite element modelling (FEM) using ANSYS, reviewing the tank shell, tank base, and support columns under combined hydrostatic and seismic loads. The model also includes the effects of fluid-structure interaction (FSI), which allows it to more accurately reflect the system's complex dynamics. The results demonstrate that the largest stresses and deformations occur at the main support columns and at the junction between the tank bottom cone and tank shell. The results of this research also demonstrate that the typical approach to designing static structures (such as support structures) does not adequately characterise dynamic stresses in large structures, and the need to use a non-linear analysis approach for the dynamic evaluation of supporting structures. Based upon the outcomes of this research study, several recommended structural optimisations are provided that include modification of the support thickness and strengthening the connections to prevent buckling of the vessel and reduce long-term fatigue.
Keywords
Initial Liquefaction Tank, Finite Element Analysis, Dynamic Loading, Ansys, Tank Supporting Structure, Stress Analysis, Steel Support Structure
References
[1] Chaithra, M., Krishnamoorthy, A. & Avinash, A. R., 2023 – Modelling Techniques of Liquid Storage Tanks Considering Fluid–Structure Interaction and Soil–Structure Interaction (Sustainability, MDPI)
[2] Hosseini, S. E. A., 2023 – Fluid Storage Tanks: A Review on Dynamic Behaviour (Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries)
[3] Mansour, A. M., 2023 – Influence of Fluid–Structure Interaction and Seismic Design on Frame-Supported Elevated Water Tanks (Structural Engineering International):
[4] Chaithra, M., Krishnamoorthy, A. & Avinash, A. R., 2023 – Modelling Techniques of Liquid Storage Tanks Considering Fluid–Structure Interaction and Soil–Structure Interaction (Sustainability, MDPI)
[5] Hosseini, S. E. A., 2023 – Fluid Storage Tanks: A Review on Dynamic Behaviour (Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries)
[6] Open-Source Reference Manuals: ANSYS Workbench User’s Guide (Version 2023 R1), ANSYS Inc., USA.
[7] ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div. 1, 2021 – Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels
[8] Jaszczur, M. et al., 2020 – A General Review of the Current Development of Mechanical Agitators Operational in Industrial Mixing Processes (Processes, MDPI)
How to cite this paper
@article{1717697,
author = {Sumit Karhad, Dr. Nagesh Shelke},
title = {A Case Study & Finite Element Analysis on Initial Liquefaction Tank and Its Supporting Structure},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2026},
volume = {9},
number = {11},
pages = {905-911},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1717697.pdf},
abstract = {This article describes a detailed computational investigation and some prior experimental work of a large, elevated initial liquefaction tank and its associated support structure. Because the tank holds a high-density liquid and is subjected to very high dynamic loads, it is important to properly assess the structural integrity and adequate design for the tank and its supporting structures. The assessment is accomplished using finite element modelling (FEM) using ANSYS, reviewing the tank shell, tank base, and support columns under combined hydrostatic and seismic loads. The model also includes the effects of fluid-structure interaction (FSI), which allows it to more accurately reflect the system's complex dynamics. The results demonstrate that the largest stresses and deformations occur at the main support columns and at the junction between the tank bottom cone and tank shell. The results of this research also demonstrate that the typical approach to designing static structures (such as support structures) does not adequately characterise dynamic stresses in large structures, and the need to use a non-linear analysis approach for the dynamic evaluation of supporting structures. Based upon the outcomes of this research study, several recommended structural optimisations are provided that include modification of the support thickness and strengthening the connections to prevent buckling of the vessel and reduce long-term fatigue.},
keywords = {Initial Liquefaction Tank, Finite Element Analysis, Dynamic Loading, Ansys, Tank Supporting Structure, Stress Analysis, Steel Support Structure},
month = {May},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I11-1717697}
}