Seismic response and economic analysis of shock-isolated LNG storage tank

In this paper, taking the 16×10⁴ m³ large prestressed concrete tank in Dongjiakou of Qingdao, Shandong Province, as an example, seismic responses of inner and outer layers of the tank before and after shock isolation are analyzed with a finite element model of large LNG storage tank. This model is established using ADINA, with interbed rubber blanket as the shock isolation tool for the tank. The effects of second shape factor of interbed rubber cradle parameter on the seismic response are considered. Moreover, simple preliminary analysis is made on the economic benefit after shock isolation. The study results show that the interbed rubber cradle, i.e., the shock isolation tool, can not only effectively control the seismic responses of inner and outer layers of the tank, but also produce favorable economic benefit. In addition, the variation in second shape factor of interbed rubber cradle has very small effect on the damping ratio. The study results are significant for thoroughly understanding the seismic response of shock-isolated storage tank, and also favorable for the selection and setting of production parameters of interbed rubber cradle.