Best Practice: Wind Loads On Pressure Vessels

Best Practice
SABP-Q-006
2 October 2006
Wind Loads on Pressure Vessels

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee
Developed by: Hisham Abu-Adas

Civil Engineering Unit/M&CED
Consulting Services Department
Previous Issue: New
Next Planned Update: 2 October 2011

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Primary contact: Abu-Adas, Hisham on phone 874-6908

Copyright Saudi Aramco 2006. All rights reserved.

Issue Date: 2 October 2006
Next Update: 2 October 2011
SABP-Q-006
Table of Contents
Page
Introduction..........................................................................................................3
1.1
Purpose......................................................................................................... 3
1.2
Scope............................................................................................................ 3
1.3
Disclaimer .................................................................................................... 3
1.4
Conflicts with Mandatory Standards............................................................ 4
References............................................................................................................4
2.1
Saudi Aramco References ............................................................................ 4
2.2
Industry Codes and Standards...................................................................... 4
General .................................................................................................................4
3.2
Wind Speed V .............................................................................................. 4
3.3
Importance Factor I...................................................................................... 4
3.4
Exposure Category ....................................................................................... 4
3.5
Basic ASCE 7 Formulas .............................................................................. 5
3.6
Velocity Pressure qz ..................................................................................... 5
3.7
Gust Effect Factors G................................................................................... 6
3.8
Force Coefficient Cf ..................................................................................... 6
3.9
Projected Area Af ......................................................................................... 6
Wind Loads on Pressure Vessels .........................................................................7

4.1
Force Coefficients for Vertical Vessels and Pipes ....................................... 7
4.2
Force Coefficients on Components.............................................................. 8
4.3
Pressure Vessels........................................................................................... 8
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 List of Tables
TABLE 1 - Basic Wind Speed V for Saudi Aramco Sites............................. 12
TABLE 2 - Velocity Pressure qz (Customary Units)...................................... 13
TABLE 3 - Velocity Pressure qz (Metric Units)............................................ 15
Attachment 2 ...............................................................................................................17
Example 1 Wind Load on Vertical Vessel
Attachment 3 ...............................................................................................................25
Example 2 Wind Load on Horizontal Vessel
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Introduction
Most of the design practices in the petrochemical industry were based on the wind
loading provisions of ASCE 7, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other
Structures or its predecessor (ANSI A58.1). ASCE 7 does not adequately address
vessels with attached piping and platforms. It is the intent of this practice to provide
uniform application of practices to all Pressure Vessels designed for Saudi Aramco
projects.
1.1
Purpose
The purpose of this practice is to provide the engineer and designer with
guidelines for wind load on Pressure Vessels for use by engineers working on
Saudi Aramco projects and Saudi Aramco Engineers.
1.2
Scope
This design guideline covers the minimum requirements and provides guidance
for calculating wind load on onshore Pressure Vessels typically located in
petrochemical facilities, this includes vertical vessels, horizontal vessels and
spheres. Section 2.0 of this document includes reference codes, Saudi Aramco
standards, and specifications. In cases where this guideline conflicts with these
references, the conflict shall be immediately brought to the attention of the
project engineer.
1.3
Disclaimer
The material in this Best Practices document provides the most correct and
accurate design guidelines available to Saudi Aramco which complies with
international industry practices. This material is being provided for the general
guidance and benefit of the Designer. Use of the Best Practices in designing
projects for Saudi Aramco, however, does not relieve the Designer from his
responsibility to verify the accuracy of any information presented or from his
contractual liability to provide safe and sound designs that conform to
Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirements. Use of the information or
material contained herein is no guarantee that the resulting product will satisfy
the applicable requirements of any project. Saudi Aramco assumes no
responsibility or liability whatsoever for any reliance on the information
presented herein or for designs prepared by Designers in accordance with the
Best Practices. Use of the Best Practices by Designers is intended solely for,
and shall be strictly limited to, Saudi Aramco projects. Saudi Aramco is a
registered trademark of the Saudi Arabian Oil Company. Copyright, Saudi
Aramco, 2006.
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1.4
SABP-Q-006
Conflicts with Mandatory Standards

In the event of a conflict between this Best Practice and other Mandatory Saudi
Aramco Engineering Requirement, the Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering
Requirement shall govern.
References
This Best Practice is based on the latest edition of the references below, unless
otherwise noted. Short titles will be used herein when appropriate.
2.1
Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards (SAFS)
2.2
SAFS-A-112
Meteorological and Seismic Design Data
SAFS-M-001
Structural Design Criteria for non-Building

Structures
Industry Codes and Standards

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
ASCE 7 05
Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other

Structures
Wind Load and Anchor Bolt Design for Petrochemical Facilities

3
General
3.1
Wind loads shall be computed and applied in accordance with SAFS-M-001,

ASCE 7, and the recommended guidelines for Pipe Racks, Open Frame
Structure and Pressure Vessels in ASCEs Wind loads and Anchor Bolt Design
for Petrochemical Facilities.
3.2
Wind load calculations shall be based on basic wind speed V of 3-second gust
speed at 33 ft (10 m) above the ground in Exposure C and associated with an
annual probability 0.02 of being equaled or exceeded (50-year mean recurrence
interval). The basic wind speed V for each site is defined in SAFS-A-112,
Meteorological and Seismic Design Data and Table 1 (Attachment 1).
3.3
The Importance Factor I shall be category IV.
3.4
Exposure Category C shall be used, except for structures close to the shoreline,
as defined in ASCE, where Exposure Category D shall be used. Exposure D is
defined as Flat, unobstructed areas exposed to wind flowing over open water
for a distance of at least 1 mi (1.61 km). The Exposure category for each Saudi
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SABP-Q-006
Aramco site is defined in SAFS-A-112, Meteorological and Seismic Design

Data.
3.5
Basic ASCE 7 Formulas

The design wind forces for the main wind force resisting system shall be per
Section 6.5.15 of ASCE 7-05 Design Wind Loads on Open Buildings and
Other Structures. The applied wind force F shall be determined by the basic
equation:
F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
where
qz = Velocity pressure at height z above ground
G = Gust response factor per Sect. 6.5.8 of ASCE 7
Cf = Net Force coefficient
Af = Projected area normal to wind
3.6
Velocity Pressure qz
The velocity pressure qz is determined in accordance with the provisions of
Section 6.5.10 of ASCE 7.
qz = 0.00256 Kz Kzt Kd V2 I (lb/sq ft)
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-15)
qz = 0.613 Kz Kzt Kd V2 I (N/m2) [SI Units]

where
Kz is the velocity pressure exposure coefficient per Sect. 6.5.6.6 & Table 6-3 of
ASCE 7.
Kzt is the topographic factor per Sect. 6.5.7.2 of ASCE 7. Kzt is equal to 1.0 for
Pressure Vessels located in Saudi Aramco facilities.
Kd is the wind directionality factor per Sect. 6.5.4.4 and Table 6-4 of ASCE 7
(see below). When used with load combinations specified in SAFS-M-001, Kd is
equal to 0.95 for pressure vessels.
V is basic wind speed of 3-second gust speed at 33 ft above the ground and can
be found in SAES-A-112.
I is the Importance Factor set forth in Table 6-1 of ASCE 7. I equal 1.15 for
Category IV structures. All Pressure Vessels at Saudi Aramco facilities are
considered Category IV structures.
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Velocity pressures qz are determined using ASCE 7, Eq. 6-28 shown above.
Attachment 1 - Table 2 (Customary Units) and Table 3 (Metric Units) provides
values for qz at several heights for most Saudi Aramco sites. These values are to
be used for Pressure Vessels.
TABLE 6-4 Wind Directionality Factor, Kd

Structure Type
Directionality Factor Kd*
Chimneys, Tanks, and Similar Structures

Square
0.90
Hexagonal
0.95
Round
0.95
*Directionality Factor Kd has been calibrated with combinations of loads specified in Section 2.
This factor shall only be applied when used in conjunction with load combinations specified in
2.3 and 2.4 of ASCE 7.
3.7
Gust Effect Factors G

The gust effect factor G is determined in accordance with the provisions of
Section 6.5.8 of ASCE 7. For rigid structures, the gust effect factor shall be
taken as G=0.85 per Section 6.5.8.1 of ASCE 7.This value should be used for all
Pressure Vessels.
For flexible or dynamically sensitive structures Gf is used in place of G.
Flexible structures defined by ASCE 7 as those structures with a fundamental
frequency f < 1 Hz. Gf shall be calculated per Section 6.5.8.2 or by a rational
method as given in Section 6.5.8.3 of ASCE 7.
3.8
Force Coefficient Cf
The force coefficient Cf for the various structures shall be as listed in the
following sections of this guideline.
3.9
Projected Area Af
The projected area Af normal to wind direction for the various structures in
question shall be as defined in this guideline.
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4.1
Force Coefficients for Vertical Vessels and Pipes

Wind on the vertical vessel itself should be calculated based on no shielding.
The force coefficient Cf shall be taken from ASCE 7, Figure 6-21 (see below)
based on appropriate roughness at vessel surface.
The force coefficient Cf = 0.7 should be used as a minimum for pipes. The force
coefficient Cf is taken from ASCE 7, Figure 6-21 (see below) for a round shape,
with h/D=25, Dqz > 2.5 and a moderately smooth surface; that is Cf = 0.7. If
the largest pipe is insulated, then consider using a Cf for a rough pipe dependent
on the roughness coefficient of the insulation (D/d).
FORCE COEFFICIENT Cf
Cross-Section
Type of Surface
h/D
1
25
Moderately smooth
0.5
0.6
0.7
Rough (D/D = 0.02)
0.7
0.8
0.9
(Dqz >5.3, D in m, qz in N/m2) Very rough (D/D = 0.08) 0.8
1.0
1.2
0.8
1.2
Round (Dqz >2.5
Round (Dqz >2.5
All
0.7
(Dqz >5.3, D in m, qz in N/m2)

Notes:
1. The design wind force shall be calculated based on the area of the structure projected
on a plane normal to the wind direction. The force shall be assumed to act parallel to
the wind direction.
2. Linear interpolation is permitted for h/D values other than shown.
3. Notation:
D: diameter of circular cross-section at elevation under consideration, in feet (meters).
D: depth of protruding elements such as ribs and spoilers, in feet (meters); and
h: height of structure , in feet (meters); and
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qz: velocity pressure evaluated at height z above ground, in pounds per square foot
(N/m2).
4.2
Force Coefficients on Components

Wind loads for the design of individual components, cladding, and
appurtenances (excluding vessels and piping) should be calculated according to
the provisions of ASCE 7. Force coefficients for several items are given in
Table 4.1 below.
TABLE 4.1 Force Coefficients Cf for Wind Loads on Components
4.3
Item
Cf
Projected Area
Handrail
2.0
0.80 sq. ft./ft.
Ladder without cage
2.0
0.50 sq. ft./ft.
Ladder with cage
2.0
0.75 sq. ft./ft.
Solid Rectangles & Flat Plates

Stair w/handrail
Side Elevation
End elevation
Round or Square Shapes
2.0
2.0
2.0
See ASCE 7
Figure 6-21
Handrail area plus channel depth

50% gross area
Pressure Vessels
General
Where vessel and piping diameters are specified, it is intended that insulation, if
present, be included in the projected area. Insulation should not be included for
stiffness when checking h/D for dynamic characteristics.
4.3.1
Vertical Vessels
4.3.1.1
Use ASCE 7 05 to calculate velocity pressures and to obtain

gust effect factors.
4.3.1.2
Simplified Method
If detailed information (number of platforms, platform size,
etc.) is unknown at the time of design of the foundation, the
following approach may be used:
1. For the projected width, add 5 ft (1.52 m) to the diameter of
the vessel or add 3 ft (0.91 m) plus the diameter of the
largest pipe to the diameter of the vessel, whichever is
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greater. This will account for platforms, ladders, nozzles

and piping below the top tangent line.
2. The vessel height should be increased one (1) vessel
diameter to account for a large diameter pipe and platform
attached above the top tangent, as is the case with most
tower arrangements.
3. The increase in vessel height or diameter to account for
wind on appurtenances should not be used in calculating
the h/D ratio for force coefficients or flexibility.
4. The force coefficient (Cf) should be determined from
ASCE 7, Figure 6-21.
4.3.1.3
Detailed Method
If most design detail items (platforms, piping, ladders, etc.) of
the vessel are known, the following method should be used:
1) For the projected width, add 1.5 ft (0.46 m) to the vessel
diameter to account for ladders, nozzles and piping 8-in
(0.2 m) or smaller and add the diameter of the largest line
coming from the top portion of the vessel.
2) The force coefficient (Cf) should be taken from ASCE 7,
Figure 6-21 based on appropriate roughness at vessel
surface.
3) For pipes outside the projected width of the vessel (defined
in 1) larger than 8-in. (0.2 m), including insulation, use the
projected area of the pipe and use coefficient Cf of 0.7.
For pipes inside the projected width of the vessel (defined
in 1) larger than 8-in. (0.2 m), including insulation, and
more than 5 pipe diameters from the vessel surface, add the
projected area of the pipe and use a force coefficient Cf of
0.7.
4) For platforms, use the projected area of the support steel
and a force coefficient Cf of 2.0.
For handrails use the values for area and force coefficient from
Table 4.1.
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Where the railing projects beyond the vessel, the projected

area of two (2) sets of railing systems should be used. A front
and a back system should both be projected.
4.3.2
Horizontal Vessels
4.3.2.1
No check for dynamic properties is required.
4.3.2.2
For the projected diameter, add 1.5 ft. (0.46 m) to the insulted
diameter to account for ladders, nozzles and pipe 8 in. (0.2 m)
(including insulation) or smaller.
4.3.2.3
For wind perpendicular to the long axis of the vessel

(transverse wind), the force coefficient (Cf) should be
determined from ASCE 7, Figure 6-21.
Note: Use B/D to determine Cf similar to h/D for vertical vessels.
4.3.2.4
For wind in the longitudinal direction, use Cf of 0.5 for a

rounded head and 1.2 for a flat head.
4.3.2.5
For pipe larger than 8 in. (0.2 m), including insulation, use the
projected area of the pipe and use a force coefficient Cf of 0.7.
4.3.2.6
For platforms, use the projected area of the support steel and a
force coefficient Cf of 2.0.
Table 4.1.
Use the projected area of each railing system.
4.3.2.7
4.3.3
For supports use the actual projected area. Cf should be 1.3 for
concrete pedestals. For steel supports, use method described
for platforms, refer to Section 4.3.3.5 below.
Spheres
4.3.3.1
No check for dynamic properties is required.
4.3.3.2
For the projected diameter, add 1.5 ft. (0.46 m) to the insulted
diameter to account for ladders, nozzles and pipe 8 in. (0.2 m)
(including insulation) or smaller.
4.3.3.3
Use Cf = 0.5 (for vessel only). Supports should be evaluated

separately.
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4.3.3.4
SABP-Q-006
For pipe larger than 8 in. (0.2 m), including insulation, use the
projected area of the pipe and use a force coefficient Cf of 0.7.
Note: Cf is determined from ASCE 7, Figure 6-21 for a moderately
smooth surface.
4.3.3.5
For platforms, use the projected area for the support steel and a
force coefficient Cf of 2.0.
Table 4.1.
Use the projected area of each railing system.
4.3.3.6
20 September 2006
For supports use the actual projected area. Cf should be 1.3 for
rectangular concrete columns and 0.7 for circular columns. For
steel supports, use the method described for platforms.
Revision Summary
New Saudi Aramco Best Practice.
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Attachment 1
TABLE 1 - Basic Wind Speed - 3-sec. Gust per SAFS-A-112

Site
Location
Abha
Abqaiq
Al-Jauf
Ar'ar
Berri
Dhahran
Duba
Hawiyah
Haradh
Hawtah
Hofuf
Jeddah
Jizan
Ju'aymah
Khamis Mushayt
Khurais
Medina
Najran
Qasim
Qaisumah
Qatif
Rabigh
Ras Tanura
Riyadh
SAfaniya
Shaybah
Shedgum
Tanajib
Tabuk
Turaif
Udhailiyah
Uthmaniyah
Yanbu
Miles per hour

mph
93
93
103
112
93
93
96
93
93
96
93
93
96
93
93
101
96
93
119
114
93
93
93
103
96
96
96
96
106
103
96
96
93
Kilometer per hour

km/hr
150
150
165
181
150
150
155
150
150
154
150
150
155
150
150
163
155
150
191
183
150
150
150
165
155
155
155
155
171
165
155
155
150
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Attachment 2
EXAMPLE 1 WIND LOAD ON VERTICAL VESSEL
VERTICAL VESSEL ELEVATION

Figure 4
N.T.S.
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The vertical vessel details are as shown in Figure 4 above. The vertical vessel is located in
Qassim and has an outside diameter of 10-0 with no insulation. The basic wind speed V =
119 mph per Table 1. This is a 3-second gust wind speed with an annual probability of
exceeding of 0.02.
Vessel Shell Thickness = 1
Empty Weight = 1.5 x Wt of Shell
Operating Weight = Empty + 30% Full Water
I.
Simplified Method Rigid Vessel
Design wind forces are determined by the equation per Section 3.5 (repeated below) where F is
the force per unit length of the vertical vessel (see Table 4.1 below):
F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
The velocity pressure, qz is determined from (Ref. Table 2 Attach. 1)

Gust effect factor, G = 0.85
(ASCE 7, Section 6.5.8.1)
h/D = 150 / 10 = 15
Assume vessel is moderately smooth, therefore
Force Coefficients
Cf = 0.6 + 8 x 0.1/18 = 0.64
Increase diameter to approximate appurtenances:
(Ref. ASCE 7, Figure 6-21)

(Ref. Section 4.3.1.2)
D + 5 ft = 10 + 5 = 15 ft or
D + 3 ft + dia. of largest pipe = 10 + 3 + 1.5 = 14.5 ft
Largest controls, therefore, effective D = 15 ft (4.57 m)
Projected Area
Projected Area per each section of vessel: Af = D x h = 15 h
Height increase to account for platform and vapor line above tangent line is one (1) diameter,
which is 10 ft (Ref. Section 4.3.1.2).
Therefore, total effective height of the structure is 150 ft + 10 ft = 160 ft (48.77 m).
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TABLE 4.1
Simplified Method - Calculation of Base Shear
Ht. Above
Ground
0 - 15
15 - 20
20 - 40
40 - 60
60 - 80
80 - 100
100 - 120
120 - 140
140 - 160
h (ft)
qz (psf)
Cf
15
5
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
35.44
37.52
43.36
47.11
50.44
52.53
54.61
56.70
57.95
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
D = 15 ft
Af (ft2)
hXD
225
75
300
300
300
300
300
300
300
F (lbs)
4338
1531
7076
7688
8232
8573
8912
9253
9457
Total =
II.
65,061
289.2
Moment
Arm (ft)
7.5
17.5
30
50
70
90
110
130
150
Total
Moment at
Base (K-ft)
32.5
26.8
212.3
384.4
576.2
771.6
980.4
1202.9
1418.6
5605.7
lbs.
kN
Detailed Method Rigid Vessel
F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)

h/D = 150 / 10 = 15
Force Coefficients
(Ref. ASCE 7, Figure 6-21)
Cf = 0.6 + 8x0.1/18 = 0.64
Increase diameter to approximate ladder, nozzles & piping 8 or smaller:
D + 1.5 ft = 10 + 1.5 = 11.5 ft (3.51 m)
Projected Area
Projected Area per each section of vessel: Af = D x h = 11.5 h
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TABLE 4.2
Detailed Method - Vessel & Miscellaneous - Calculation
of Base Shear
Ht. Above
Ground
0 - 15
15 - 20
20 - 40
40 - 60
60 - 80
80 - 100
100 - 120
120 - 140
140 - 150
D = 11.5 ft
h (ft)
qz (psf)
Cf
Af (ft2)
F (lbs)
15
5
20
20
20
20
20
20
10
35.44
37.52
43.36
47.11
50.44
52.53
54.61
56.70
57.95
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
0.64
hXD
172.5
57.5
230
230
230
230
230
230
115
3326
1174
5425
5894
6311
6573
6833
7094
3625
Total =
46,255
205.6
Moment
Arm (ft)
7.5
17.5
30
50
70
90
110
130
145
Total
lbs.
kN
Moment at
Base (K-ft)
24.9
20.5
162.8
294.7
441.8
591.5
751.6
922.3
525.7
3735.8
Wind load on Pipe

F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)

Force Coefficients
Cf = 0.7
Projected Area
Pipe dia. D = 18 = 1.5 ft (0.46 m)
Projected Area per each section of vessel: Af = D x h = 1.5 h (except for the curved section
above El. 150 which must be calculated separately see Figure 4)
Af above El. 150 = 3.14 x 10/2 x 1.5 = 24 ft2 (2.2 m2)
Note: The pipe starts at El. 15.0 (see Figure 4)
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TABLE 4.3
Detailed Method - Pipe - Calculation of Base Shear
Ht. Above
Ground
15 20
20 40
40 60
60 80
80 100
100 120
120 140
140 150
150 155
h (ft)
qz (psf)
Cf
5
20
20
20
20
20
20
10
5
37.52
43.36
47.11
50.44
52.53
54.61
56.70
57.32
57.63
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.85
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
D = 1.5 ft
Af (ft2)
hXD
7.5
30
30
30
30
30
30
15
24
Total =
F (lbs)
167
774
841
900
938
975
1012
512
823
6,942
30.9
Moment
Arm (ft)
17.5
30
50
70
90
110
130
145
152.5
Total
Moment at
Base (K-ft)
2.9
23.2
42.0
63.0
84.4
107.2
131.6
74.2
125.5
654.1
lbs.
kN
Wind load on Platforms (Refer to Figure 4)

The platform at El. 150 (just above the top of the vessel) is square platform 12 ft x 12 ft in plan
with handrail around the perimeter. It is assumed that the platform structural framing will be 8inches deep (8/12 = 0.70 sq. ft/lin ft).
Af (platform framing) = 0.7 x 12 = 8.4 ft2
Af (front handrail)
= 0.8 x 12 = 9.6 ft2
(Table 4.1)
Af (back handrail
= 0.8 x 12 = 9.6 ft2
27.6 ft2
qz = 57.95
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0

F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F1 = 57.95 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 27.6 = 2719 lbs (12.1 kN)
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The other platforms are circular and extend 3 ft beyond the outside radius of the vessel.
Therefore, the radial distance (R) from the centerline of the vessel to the outside of platform is
5 + 3 = 8 ft (2.44 m). The angle (60o, 90o and 180o) shown in Figure 4 is the angle subtended
by the ends of the platform as measured at the centerline of the vessel. Therefore, the projected
length of the platform is calculated by the equation:
L = 2 R Sin (Subtended angle / 2)
Platform at El 100 ft Subtended angle = 60o
Projected length = 2 x 8 x Sin (60/2) = 8.0 ft
Assume platform framing 6-in deep (0.5 sq ft /lin. Ft)
Af (platform framing) = 0.5 x 8.0 = 4.0 ft2
Af (handrail)
= 0.8 x 8.0 = 6.4 ft2
(Ref. Table 4.1)
10.4 ft2 (0.97 m2)

qz = 52.53
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0

ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af
F2 = 52.53 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 10.4 = 929 lbs (4.1 kN)

Af (handrail)
= 0.8 x 8.0 = 6.4 ft2
(Ref. Table 4.1)
10.4 ft2 (0.97 m2)

qz = 49.60
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0

Page 22 of 31

SABP-Q-006
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af
F3 = 49.60 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 10.4 = 877 lbs (3.9 kN)

Since the projected length is larger than the vessel diameter, the back handrail will be included
(Ref. Section 4.3.1.3). Back handrail projected length = 3 ft x Sin 45o x 2 sides = 4.2 ft.
Af (front handrail)
= 0.8 x 11.3 = 9.0 ft2
(Ref. Table 4.1)
Af (back handrail)
= 0.8 x 4.2 = 3.3.0 ft2
18.0 ft2 (1.67 m2)

qz = 44.40
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0

ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af
F4 = 44.40 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 18.0 = 1359 lbs (6.1 kN)

Projected length = 2 x 8 x Sin (180/2) = 16 ft
Since the projected length is larger than the vessel diameter, the back handrail will be included
(Ref. Section 4.3.1.3). Back handrail projected length = 3 ft x Sin 90o x 2 sides = 6 ft.
Af (front handrail)
= 0.8 x 16.0 = 12.8 ft2
Af (back handrail)
= 0.8 x 6.0 = 4.8 ft2
Total Af =
(Ref. Table 4.1)

25.6 ft2 (2.38 m2)

Page 23 of 31

SABP-Q-006

qz = 35.44
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0

F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F5 = 35.44 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 25.6 = 1542 lbs (6.9 kN)

Total shear on platforms = 2719 + 929 + 877 + 1359 + 1542 = 7426 lbs (33.0 kN)
Total shear on foundation:
Vessel & Miscellaneous
= 46,255 lbs
Pipe
= 6,942 lbs
Platforms
= 7,426 lbs
Total
= 60,623 lbs (269.4 kN)
III.
Analysis of Flexible Vessels
The only difference between loads resulting from analysis of the vessel as Flexible vs.
Rigid is that Gf (the gust response factor for main force resisting systems of flexible
buildings and structures) is substituted for G in the rigid analysis. ASCE 7, Section 6.6 states
that Gf shall be calculated by a rational analysis that incorporates the dynamic properties of the
main wind-force resisting system. A method is provided in the commentary.
For the Recommended methods, the procedure outlined in ASCE 7 Commentary, section 6.6
was utilized to determine Gf = 1.03.
Simplified Method (Flexible)
Total Shear
= (Gf / G) x 65,061
= (1.03 / 0.85) x 65,061 = 78,838 lbs (350.4 kN)
Page 24 of 31

SABP-Q-006
Detailed Method (Flexible)

Vessel + Miscl.:
Shear = (Gf / G) x 65,061

= (1.03 / 0.85) x 46,255 = 56,050 lbs (249.1 kN)
Shear = (Gf / G) x 6,942
Pipe:
= (1.03 / 0.85) x 6,942 = 8,412 lbs (37.4 kN)

Shear = (Gf / G) x 7,426
Platforms:
= (1.03 / 0.85) x 7,426 = 9,000 lbs (40.0 kN)

Total
= 73,462 lbs (326.5 kN)
The above wind loads shall be combined with the vessel other loads such as operating, empty
and testing in accordance with Service Load Combinations and Strength Design Load
Combinations as speccified in SAES-M-001. The anchor bolts and foundations shall be
designed based on critical laods combinations.
Pvessel
MWL
HwL
m
D
Dp
T
Ds
ELEVATION
FOOTING PLAN
Page 25 of 31

SABP-Q-006
Attachment 2
EXAMPLE 2 WIND LOAD ON HORIZONATL VESSEL
Page 26 of 31

SABP-Q-006
Transverse Wind (wind on the side of the vessel)

The horizontal vessel details are as shown in Figure 5 above. The basic wind speed V = 119
mph. This is a 3-second gust wind speed with an annual probability of exceeding of 0.02.
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af

H = 20 ft
qz = 37.52
Vessel + Miscellaneous
B/D = 50/12 = 4.2

Cf = 0.5 + 3.2 x 0.1/6 = 0.55
(ASCE 7, Figure 19)
Increased diameter o approximate ladder, nozzle & piping 8 or smaller:

D + 1.5 ft = 12 + 1.5 = 13.5 ft (4.1 m)
Af = 13.5 x 54 avg. = 729 ft2 (67.7 m2)

Shear at Base:
F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F1 = 37.52 x 0.85 x 0.55 x 729 = 12,787 lbs (56.8 kN)

Platform
The platform is a rectangular platform 10 ft x 30 ft in plan with handrail around the perimeter.
Assume platform structural framing 10-inches deep (10/12=0.8 sq ft /lin. Ft)
Af (front handrail)
= 0.8 x 30 = 24.0 ft2
(Ref. Table 4.1)
Af (back handrail)
= 0.8 x 30 = 24.0 ft2
72.00 ft2 (6.7 m2)
Page 27 of 31

qz = 37.52
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0
SABP-Q-006
(Table 2 Attach. 1)
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af
F2 = 37.52 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 72.0 = 4592 lbs (20.4 kN)

Supports
Steel saddle:
Af = 0.5x 2.0 x 2 (supports) = 2.0 ft2 (0.2 m2)
qz = 37.52
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0
(Table 2 Attach. 1)
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af
F3 = 37.52 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 2.0 = 128 lbs (0.6 kN)

Concrete support:
Af = 1.0 x 4.0 x 2 (supports) = 8.0 ft2 (0.7 m2)
qz = 37.52
G = 0.85
Cf = 1.3
(Table 2 Attach. 1)
F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F4 = 37.52 x 0.85 x 1.3 x 8.0 = 332 lbs (1.5 kN)

Total Shear, Transverse Wind
Vessel & Miscellaneous (F1) = 12, 787 lbs
Platform (F2)
4,592 lbs
Support (steel) (F3)
128 lbs
Supports (concrete) (F4)
332 lbs
Total
= 17,170 lbs (79.3 kN)
Page 28 of 31

SABP-Q-006
Longitudinal Wind (wind on the end of the vessel)

ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af

qz = 37.52
H = 20 ft at platform level
Vessel + Miscellaneous
Elliptical head, therefore

Cf = 0.5
Increased diameter o approximate ladder, nozzle & piping 8 or smaller:

D + 1.5 ft = 12 + 1.5 = 13.5 ft (4.1 m)
Af = 3.14 x 13.5 x 13.5/4 = 143.1 ft2 (13.3 m2)

Shear at Base:
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af
F1 = 37.52 x 0.85 x 0.50 x 143.1 = 2,282 lbs (10.2 kN)

Platform
The platform is a rectangular platform 10 ft x 30 ft in plan with handrail around the perimeter.
Assume platform structural framing 10-inches deep (10/12=0.8 sq ft /lin. Ft)
Af (front handrail)
= 0.8 x 10 = 8.0 ft2
(Ref. Table 4.1)
Af (back handrail)
= 0.8 x 10 = 8.0 ft2
24.00 ft2 (2.2 m2)

qz = 37.52
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0
(Table 2 Attach. 1)
Page 29 of 31

SABP-Q-006
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af
F2 = 37.52 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 24.0 = 1,531 lbs (6.8 kN)

Supports
Steel saddle 10 ft wide x 3 ft (avg. high):
qz = 37.52
G = 0.85
Cf = 2.0
(Table 2 Attach. 1)
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F = qz G Cf Af
F3 = 37.52 x 0.85 x 2.0 x 60.0 = 3,827 lbs (17.0 kN)

Concrete support 11 ft wide x 4 ft high
qz = 37.52
G = 0.85
Cf = 1.3
(Table 2 Attach. 1)
F = qz G Cf Af
ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)
F4 = 37.52 x 0.85 x 1.3 x 88.0 = 3,648 lbs (16.2 kN)

Total Shear, Longitudinal Wind
Vessel & Miscellaneous (F1) = 2, 282 lbs
Platform (F2)
1,531 lbs
Support (steel) (F3)
3,827 lbs
Supports (concrete) (F4)
3,648 lbs
Total
11,288 lbs (50.2 kN)
Total Shear per Support = 50.2 kN / 2 = 25.1 kN
Page 30 of 31

SABP-Q-006
Typical Longitudinal Wind (Shear Force) on Foundation

P-Vessel
Y
H-Longit. = 25.1 kN
Cy
Ly
Lx (Longitudianl)
ELEVATION
PLAN
Note:
The above wind loads shall be combined with the vessel other loads such as operating, empty
and testing in accordance with Service Load Combinations and Strength Design Load
Combinations as speccified in SAES-M-001. The anchor bolts and foundations shall be
designed based on critical laods combinations.
Page 31 of 31

Best Practice: Wind Loads On Pressure Vessels

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Best Practice: Wind Loads On Pressure Vessels

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Best Practice

Wind Loads on Pressure Vessels

Wind Loads on Pressure Vessels

Developed by: Hisham Abu-Adas

Previous Issue: New

Next Planned Update: 2 October 2011

Primary contact: Abu-Adas, Hisham on phone 874-6908

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee

Conflicts with Mandatory Standards............................................................ 4

Saudi Aramco References ............................................................................ 4

Industry Codes and Standards...................................................................... 4

Wind Speed V .............................................................................................. 4

Importance Factor I...................................................................................... 4

Exposure Category ....................................................................................... 4

Basic ASCE 7 Formulas .............................................................................. 5

Velocity Pressure qz ..................................................................................... 5

Gust Effect Factors G................................................................................... 6

Force Coefficient Cf ..................................................................................... 6

Projected Area Af ......................................................................................... 6

Wind Loads on Pressure Vessels .........................................................................7

Force Coefficients for Vertical Vessels and Pipes ....................................... 7

Force Coefficients on Components.............................................................. 8

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee

Conflicts with Mandatory Standards

Saudi Aramco References

Meteorological and Seismic Design Data

Structural Design Criteria for non-Building

Industry Codes and Standards

Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other

Wind Load and Anchor Bolt Design for Petrochemical Facilities

Wind loads shall be computed and applied in accordance with SAFS-M-001,

The Importance Factor I shall be category IV.

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee

Aramco site is defined in SAFS-A-112, Meteorological and Seismic Design

Basic ASCE 7 Formulas

ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-28)

ASCE 7 (Eq. 6-15)

qz = 0.613 Kz Kzt Kd V2 I (N/m2) [SI Units]

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee

TABLE 6-4 Wind Directionality Factor, Kd

Directionality Factor Kd*

Chimneys, Tanks, and Similar Structures

Gust Effect Factors G

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee

Wind Loads on Pressure Vessels

Force Coefficients for Vertical Vessels and Pipes

Rough (D/D = 0.02)

(Dqz >5.3, D in m, qz in N/m2) Very rough (D/D = 0.08) 0.8

Round (Dqz >2.5

Round (Dqz >2.5

(Dqz >5.3, D in m, qz in N/m2)

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee

Force Coefficients on Components

0.80 sq. ft./ft.

Ladder without cage

0.50 sq. ft./ft.

Ladder with cage

0.75 sq. ft./ft.

Solid Rectangles & Flat Plates

Handrail area plus channel depth

Use ASCE 7 05 to calculate velocity pressures and to obtain

Document Responsibility: Onshore Structures Standards Committee