Tank builder

This tool generates all of the structural data for a complete flat, domed or Intze tank, including the support structure. It also generates all of the static and hydrostatic loads, plus wind loads to IS 875 (Part 3) : 2015 and seismic loads to IS 1893 (Part 2) : 2014.

Load cases are automatically generated for all combinations of the dead, live, hydrostatic, wind and seismic loads.

You can access the tank builder via the structure wizard by clicking the button and then clicking the tank builder button shown below.

Note that if you haven't purchased the tank builder, you can still run it in a free trial mode that limits you to a pre-defined tank width and height, and prevents you from exporting or saving the job. All other features are fully activated.

Geometry

Below are typical examples of a flat tank, domed tank and Intze tank, all with support structures.

Flat tank

Domed tank

Intze tank

Support Structure

The support structure varies to some extent for each tank type, but in general you can specify the number and height of the horizontal levels, the column types, footing details and support conditions.

Static Loads

Static loads consist of self-weight, weight of cover and balcony slab finishes, and live loads. Note that hydrostatic loads are automatically generated based on the tank size and freeboard specified in the tank geometry.

Wind Loads

Wind loads can be generated in accordance with IS 875 (Part 3) : 2015 based on the wind pressure coefficients applied to the tank and the support structure.

Clicking the "Settings" button takes you to the wind settings below in which you can select the location of the structure, the design life, and the terrain category. The wind pressure coefficients are then calculated in accordance with IS 875 (Part 3) : 2015.

Seismic Loads

Seismic loads are calculated as equivalent static loads in accordance with IS 1893 (Part 2) : 2014 based on the zone factor, importance factor, response reduction factor and soil type. The seismic loads also include the hydrodynamic effects that result from the liquid sloshing around the tank during the seismic event.

Calculation of the seismic loads depend to some extent on the overall horizontal stiffness of the structure, and this is calculated based on the deflection that occurs as a result of a 10kN horizontal load at the tank level. You can specify the 10kN deflection manually or, if you select "From staging model" and then click the "Calculate from Staging Model" button, it will perform a static analysis and automatically determine the horizontal deflection.

Load cases

Primary load cases are automatically generated for dead load, live load, wind loads, seismic loads, and hydrostatic loads. Combination load cases that combine and factor the primary load cases into the required design combinations are also created.