Behaviour of elevated concrete silos filled with saturated solids

Abstract

A finite-element solution is introduced for simulating the filling process of elevated concrete silos filled with saturated solids. An axisymmetric finite-element model is used to represent both the solids and the structure. The bulk solids are modeled using an elastoplastic model, whereas the structure is modeled using a linear elastic model. The interaction between the two materials is modeled using interface elements to permit relative movement. The filling process is idealized via a multistage numerical technique capable of representing both undrained and drained conditions. The effect of the filling process may be time-dependent. The excess pore-water pressure caused by the filling process may significantly influence the magnitudes of internal forces. Moreover, the design critical sections of the same silo element may correspond to different bulk solid conditions (undrained or drained). Practically, the ring beam stiffness may only influence hoop compressions in the silo elements at the wall–hopper junction. The results presented may be used to design tests to evaluate existing silos.Key words: elevated concrete silos, silo filling, finite-element analysis, elastoplastic model, consolidation, hopper, ring beam stiffness.