A Simplified Methodology for Rapidly Analyzing the Effect of Multi-Hazard Scenario on Atmospheric Storage Tanks

Abstract

Natural hazard events that trigger technical emergencies (Natech events), as a typical type of multi-hazard, have become a matter of growing concern. In particular, the occurrence of Natech events in industrial areas triggered a number of severe accidents. The present research aims at introducing a sound but simplified methodology to quickly and flexibly assess the vulnerability of atmospheric storage tanks to multiple natural disasters in Natech events. This method consists of 8 steps, relying on the simplified physical models of tank damage caused by natural disasters. The models of wind overturning tank and tank buckling caused by hail are proposed. In addition, the assessment process of tank vulnerability is demonstrated from two aspects: deterministic analysis and probabilistic analysis. The uncertain parameter set (UPS) proposed in the method and the Monte Carlo simulation method can help to purposefully analyze the impact of various parameters and this method is also a general method, which is also applicable to Natech events including other natural disasters or other types of storage tanks.

UAS Photogrammetry and TLS Technology: A Novel Approach to Predictive Maintenance in Industrial Tank Systems

“…These results agree with those obtained by the authors of [3], who investigated the effect of multi-hazard scenarios on the structural response of atmospheric storage tanks through a simplified methodology, finding that the combination of different loads, such as wind, seismic, and thermal loads, can significantly affect the stress distribution and deformation patterns of the tank, especially in the lower part of the shell.…”

“…Among the main damage mechanisms affecting storage tanks are corrosion, fatigue, differential settlement, overloading, buckling, and collapse [3]. These mechanisms can generate various anomalies and defects in the structure, such as geometric deviations, cracks, dents, leaks, or loss of thickness, which in turn can trigger catastrophic failures with serious consequences for the safety of people, the environment, and the continuity of facility operations [4].…”

Risk Analysis of Natech Accidents Trigged by Lightnings and Floods

“…In the study by Wang and Weng (2021), a simplified methodology is presented to quickly assess the vulnerability of atmospheric storage tanks in Natech events. In this study, deterministic and probabilistic analyzes were applied using Uncertain Parameter Set (UPS) and Monte Carlo Simulation methods.…”