Load bearing capacity of concrete slab - for vessels on legs

[CheemaJ]

Hi,

There is an area where we would like to install a number of steel vessels, supported off legs, for storing liquids. Some core sampling was carried out last week (attached a couple of photos) and we managed to get a measurement of the slab thickness in a couple of different locations. It is around 250mm thick (10 inches). There appears to be steel reinforcement present as well. I don't yet have any information on the substrate unfortunately.

The tanks will weigh a maximum of 37,000 kg (37 tonnes). The diameter of the tanks is around 3m (10 ft). Each tank will be supported off 4 legs. There will be plates welded to the bottom of the legs to spread the load (size can be varied according to requirements).

Not being well versed in structural engineering I was wondering if someone could offer an insight into how I'd check whether the slab is capable of supporting this kind of weight.

Many thanks

 

[HTURKAK]

Apparently you need the services of structural engineer..Hire an experienced structural engineer and find the geotechnical data..

 

[CheemaJ]

HTURKAK - this is the intention. I just wondered if there was a rough calculation to provide an indication of whether the slab will be suitable for supporting this sort of load.

 

[Settingsun]

It's in the ballpark if the loads are sufficiently spread. Get the engineer involved so any further investigation is properly planned. Eg you might need to space out the tanks more than you want which makes the scheme impractical for you. No point coring holes you just need to patch if out isn't working out.

 

[dik]

As a caution, depending on the spacing of the tanks... the high point load can contribute the the stresses in the adjacent point load.

Rather than think climate change and the corona virus as science, think of it as the wrath of God. Feel any better?

-Dik

 

[JStephen]

Also look at what kind of anchorage is required, whether there is significant wind or seismic loading.
If you don't have any information on allowable bearing or existing construction, it's hard to check for adequacy.