FIBA Technologies is often asked to check the structural integrity of products due to seismic loads, frequently alongside proof of suitability for ground storage vessels to be located in regions of volatile weather, such as tornados and hurricanes.
Seismic calculations are conducted by a Professional Engineer to demonstrate to what level high pressure ground storage vessels can withstand movement caused by an earthquake. As FIBA supplies products to customers around the world such request are common, not least for ground storage deployed in California, Japan, and across the Middle and Far East.
The seismic and wind calculations are run according to the specific location of the vessels using finite element analysis (FEA) methods, amongst others as required. This shows how the vessel structure will respond when exposed to earthquake or extreme weather incidents.
Once calculations are finalized, drawings are stamped by the Professional Engineer. Similarly, when there is any local State or Province requirement (e.g. a State / Province PE stamp) FIBA will also obtain it .
This careful design approach is the bedrock of the deployment of FIBA’s vessels in some of the least hospitable environments and gives customers the confidence that their investment will withstand the conditions to which they will be exposed, wherever in the world they are deployed.
In addition, one other important structural integrity check performed is for lifting loads of ground storage packs, with any changes incorporated into the overall vessel and frame design.