A numerical procedure to estimate seismic fragility of cylindrical ground-supported steel silos containing granular-like material

Abstract

The paper presents a study on the evaluation of seismic fragility of cylindrical ground-supported steel silos intended for storing solid material. Silos are a key facility in industrial processes. For example, cylindrical steel silos constitute the main structural component for several industrial activities, such as the ones aimed at the production of food and beverage, and seismic actions can cause high economic losses and long functionality interruptions. Thus, the main goal of this paper is to propose a numerical procedure aimed to assess the seismic fragility of different cylindrical steel silos, accounting for varying geometries and service conditions (i.e., filling level of granular-like material), and observing different failure modes. In detail, a set of smooth steel silos was selected, considering different geometrical configurations (i.e., varying from squattest to slenderest structures). Different service conditions were simulated, with the aim to observe the behaviour of empty and filled silos (30%, 60%, and 90% of filling degree with respect to the maximum capacity). For each configuration, a detailed numerical model was developed under proper boundary conditions, adequately simulating the shell structure, the solid material inside, and the interactions between them. After validating the numerical models against existing literature data, three different failure modes were identified and assessed, accounting for the most recurrent post-elastic buckling type (i.e., elephant foot) and considering the possible occurrence of the elastic ones (i.e., diamond or similar shape failures at the middle and top of the structures). Both static and dynamic analyses were performed to identify the most probable failure modes and evaluate the probability of exceeding each one. As the output of the proposed approach, the seismic performance of each silo under a specific limit state was provided in the form of fragility curves. The results highlight some novel aspects, starting from the role that service conditions assume in the silos seismic performance up to the possible differences in terms of failure modes for different silos geometrical structural configurations.

Modeling Techniques, Seismic Performance, and the Application of Rocking Shallow Foundations: A Review

“…The field of performance-based earthquake engineering emphasizes the importance of understanding the nonlinear behavior of shallow foundations in both bridges and buildings under significant seismic loads. In buildings, this approach is utilized to assess the seismic performance of high-rise buildings, residential complexes, and commercial structures, ensuring their resilience during significant seismic events [1]. Khalil et al (2023) [1] conducted research to assess the seismic vulnerability of cylindrical ground-supported steel silos designed for storing solid materials.…”

“…In buildings, this approach is utilized to assess the seismic performance of high-rise buildings, residential complexes, and commercial structures, ensuring their resilience during significant seismic events [1]. Khalil et al (2023) [1] conducted research to assess the seismic vulnerability of cylindrical ground-supported steel silos designed for storing solid materials. Similarly, in bridge engineering, the nonlinear behavior of shallow foundations is crucial for evaluating the seismic response of bridges and enhancing their durability and safety.…”

Degradation of Seismic Performance of Thin Steel Plate Shear Walls in Earthquakes

“…A steel frame SPSW structure consists of two horizontal load-bearing systems, making its failure also staged. During earthquakes, the embedded steel plate buckles and enters a plastic state to dissipate seismic energy [1]. Under the action of seismic loads that are not severe, damage to the embedded steel plate will also cause a decrease in the performance of the structure.…”

Some thoughts on integrity management of mounded storage tanks

“…Risks, regardless of human errors or inherent factors [ [1] , [2] , [3] , [4] ], can damage the integrity of equipment and the system. Integrity management can reduce risks and is a type of managerial activity that is performed to continuously identify and evaluate equipment-related risk factors.…”