Parametric Study of Seismic Soil‐Tank Interaction. I: Horizontal Excitation

Abstract

Dynamic soil‐tank interaction under horizontal seismic excitations has a profound effect on the amplification of hydrodynamic forces and moments exerted on tank structure. Analytical mechanical models for flexible cylindrical tanks, which also account for the effect of rigid‐base rocking motion and lateral translation, are used with a lumped‐parameters idealization of foundation soil. A comprehensive parametric analysis is conducted to study the effects and relative importance of a few factors influencing the seismic response of tank‐liquid‐soil systems. Computer programs are implemented to evaluate the system response to ground earthquake motions. Results are presented in the form of graphs that give engineers a useful tool for understanding the seismic performance of the system and for developing effective design procedures.