seismic considerations

[Docbar99]

I am not a structural engineer but am often asked to recommend Tank mounting kits for seismic areas. I have a calculator that I use that calculates Horizontal and uplift forces. We sell mounting kits and load cells that are sometimes sold into seismic zones. Our calculator has input for many parameters and one of them is horizontal acceleration in g's. I am never sure if I should use the S1 or the Ss value. I am also not sure if I should use the IBC or asce 7-10 standards.
Can anyone give me some advice?

 

[wcfrobert]

What kind of tank is this? You should probably consult a practicing engineer in real life to get a more in-depth answer especially if public safety is involved.

I'm not sure what type of calculator you are using, but it sounds like you are trying to find the seismic force for a non-building structure, in which case refer to ASCE 7 chapter 13 for further guidance.