Seismic Analysis of Cylindrical Liquid Storage Tanks

Liquid storage tanks are widely utilized in industries for storing chemicals, petroleum products, and water in public distribution systems. The behaviour of cylindrical liquid storage tanks under earthquake loads has been studied in accordance with Draft Code Part II of IS 1893:2002. Seismic analysis of these tanks is conducted using FEM-based software, such as STAAD-PRO, which calculates the earthquake-induced forces on tank systems. The Draft Code Part II of IS 1893:2002 includes provisions for various types of liquid storage tanks. Under earthquake loads, tanks experience a complex pattern of stresses. Poorly designed tanks may leak, buckle, or even collapse during earthquakes. Common failure modes include wall buckling, roof sloshing damage, inlet/outlet pipe breaks, and implosion due to rapid content loss. In this study, a circular cylindrical elevated water tank with a capacity of 500 cubic meters is analysed using finite element modelling techniques. This paper examines the seismic performance of elevated water tanks of different heights and located in various seismic zones of India. The impact of tank height and seismic zone on earthquake forces is presented through the analysis of 20 models with consistent parameters, using the finite element software STAAD-PRO.