Composite Elevated Tank Concurrent Construction Method
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing construction methods for composite elevated storage tanks are not cost-efficient for smaller tank sizes, as they require separate construction of the steel tank and the reinforced concrete pedestal, which is not economically viable for capacities of 300,000 gallons or less.
Innovation Solution
A novel method for constructing small composite elevated storage tanks involves building the concrete pedestal and steel tank concurrently, allowing the steel tank to be lifted onto the concrete pedestal, and coupling the base plate of the steel tank to a tank anchor assembly on the pedestal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the traditional separate construction method is used for composite elevated tanks, then the construction process is well-established and reliable, but the construction cost is high and efficiency is low for smaller tank sizes (300,000 gallons or less)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the construction of the steel tank and concrete pedestal into a single integrated process. The steel tank is constructed on a temporary support structure adjacent to the pedestal, allowing both components to be built concurrently rather than sequentially. This merging of construction activities reduces overall project time and cost while maintaining structural integrity through the use of a base plate that connects the steel tank to the completed pedestal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary construction of the steel tank on a temporary support structure before final installation on the pedestal. This allows the tank to be partially or fully constructed in advance, enabling better scheduling and resource allocation. The temporary support structure facilitates early construction activities without interfering with pedestal construction, and the base plate is prepared in advance to ensure proper connection geometry when the tank is finally lifted onto the pedestal.
2Ease of manufacture
If composite elevated tanks are constructed for smaller capacities (300,000 gallons or less), then the benefits of concrete pedestals (no coatings or painting required) are lost due to high construction costs, but using all-steel construction eliminates the need for concurrent construction coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the construction parameters (method, timing, and sequence) to adapt the composite elevated tank design for smaller capacities. By modifying how the steel tank and concrete pedestal are constructed and coordinated, the solution makes the composite design economically viable for smaller tanks. The base plate connection method and temporary support structure enable flexible construction approaches that reduce costs while maintaining the advantages of concrete pedestals across a broader range of tank sizes.
3Productivity
If the steel tank is lifted onto the completed pedestal, then the construction sequence is simplified, but additional lifting equipment and coordination are required
Solution Approach 1:
The steel tank is constructed in advance on a temporary support structure before being lifted onto the pedestal. This preliminary construction allows the tank to be assembled in a controlled environment with easier access for welding and inspection. The temporary support structure is designed to maintain the tank at the correct elevation and position, facilitating a smoother and more efficient lifting operation when the pedestal is complete. This sequencing reduces the complexity of coordinating heavy lifting operations during pedestal construction.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite elevated storage tank for smaller capacities having an improved anchorage connecting the steel tank to the reinforced concrete pedestal. The anchorage includes tank anchor assemblies and an insulator at a top surface of the concrete pedestal, with anchors embedded in the concrete. The steel tank includes a skirt and base plates welded to a bottom cone section of the tank. The skirt, base plates, and tank anchor assemblies enable the steel tank and the reinforced concrete pedestal to be constructed on-site simultaneously.