Title: Response of Precast Prestressed Concrete Circular Tanks Retaining Heated Liquids

Author(s): Michael J. Minehane and Brian D. O’Rourke

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 111

Issue: 2

Appears on pages(s): 247-256

Keywords: buckling; elevated temperature; finite element analysis; material properties; prestressed concrete; reservoirs; thermal loading; thermal storage

DOI: 10.14359/51686441

Date: 3/1/2014

Abstract:
The present study investigated the influence of heated water storage, upward to 95°C (171°F), on precast prestressed concrete circular tanks. Modern design standards for concrete liquid-retaining structures require that thermal effects be considered for the serviceability limit state and the ultimate limit state when deemed significant. Most recognized standards, however, do not provide guidance for the analysis of such effects. Research in this area is also limited and almost exclusively concerned with ambient thermal conditions, with a maximum temperature change of 30°C (54°F) in any instance. A finite element study incorporating thermomechanical coupling investigated the magnitude of stresses associated with thermal storage. A linear eigenvalue analysis examined the ultimate limit state of buckling for restrained tank walls due to the thermally-induced combined axial compression and bending. Consequent design implications were established and recommendations made for accommodating thermal loading.