Analyzing the Structural Integrity and Efficiency of Silos: A Comparative Study of Plate Thickness Variations

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of plate thickness on stress distribution within silo structures through a comparative analysis across various models. The analysis, conducted using STAAD-PRO software, explores stress components such as Principal top stress, Tresca top stress, membrane stress (SX), and shear stresses (SQX and SQY). Results demonstrate a consistent trend: as plate thickness increases from 0.1 meters to 0.5 meters, stress levels decrease across all components. Thicker plates exhibit enhanced structural robustness, reducing stress concentrations and improving overall stability. Additionally, maximum stress occurs at the top portions of the silo structure for thinner plates, while stress variations exist among different stress components across models. These findings emphasize the critical role of plate thickness in optimizing silo design for enhanced structural integrity and operational reliability. Understanding stress distributions is essential for informed decision-making in silo construction, ensuring safety and performance under operational conditions.