Honestly, it's a bit of a gray area. A thicker section might act more like a continuous strip, but it really depends on how the loads distribute. I'm not sure if SAFE or ETABS can accurately model that; might need to experiment with different setups.
Good luck.
To determine D for submersible pumps in wet wells, consider the bell outside diameter based on the pump model specifications. I guess checking the manufacturer's guidelines will clarify sizing. For more details, see this article: ANSI/HI 9.8 Standard Insights https://www.pumps.org/anis/hi