The engineering task
A vertical vessel is supported in a steel structure by several brackets welded to the shell. Self-weight, operating contents, wind, earthquake and piping generate vertical forces, shear and moments. Fabrication tolerances may distribute load unevenly among brackets.
The assessment covers bracket geometry, welds and especially local load transfer into the pressure shell. Reinforcement may reduce local stress but increases stiffness discontinuity and weld loading. Erection and test conditions must be considered in addition to operation.
Required design data
- Empty, operating and test weight with centre of gravity
- Number, position and geometry of brackets
- Wind, seismic and piping loads
- Load-distribution assumption and fabrication tolerances
Technical solution approach
Form load combinations
Combine weight, pressure, wind, earthquake and piping loads for operation, test and erection.
Determine bracket reactions
Distribute vertical forces and overturning moments among supports including realistic inequality.
Select bracket section
Check standard dimensions and sections for bending, shear, contact and stability.
Verify the shell locally
Assess transfer of bracket forces into shell and reinforcement using an appropriate shell or WRC method.
Specify weld and installation
Define welds, reinforcement details, tolerances and any grouting requirements.
Expected deliverables
Suitable SOL ALPHA modules
The modules form a technically plausible toolchain. Their final selection and sequence will be confirmed during the later calculation against the applicable code and project conditions.