Differences between vertical and horizontal storage tanks

Vertical storage tanks take up less floor space. I work in a chemical plant; usually, the equipment list provided by the design institute already indicates whether the equipment is horizontal or vertical. In this case, more consideration needs to be given from a process perspective.

Pressure vessels are generally defined by the operating temperature and pressure specified in the process conditions, the composition and properties of the medium, and the size of the vessel. Initial dimensions are selected based on the known conditions, appropriate materials and structures are considered, and then strength calculations are performed in accordance with standards to determine the wall thicknesses of the cylinder, head, and various pressure-bearing elements. The following factors should be considered in the design of containers: 1. The properties of the storage medium ； 2. Filling coefficient ； 3. Temperature ； 4. Ratio of container diameter to length ； 5. Attachments. The structural types of containers include horizontal containers, vertical containers, containers with mechanical stirring, shell-and-tube heat exchangers, high-pressure containers, spherical containers, titanium pressure vessels, aluminum pressure vessels, etc. Different types are selected according to various process requirements.

Personally, I think horizontal models are better for smaller sizes, while vertical models are suitable for larger ones. I ask all the experts to offer their criticism and suggestions! :P

For vertical storage tanks, wind load needs to be considered during the design process, whereas this is not necessary for horizontal storage tanks. However, for horizontal storage tanks, the bending moment caused by the tank’s own weight must be taken into account, whereas this is not necessary for vertical storage tanks. The first point’s significance in terms of application is that if the wind in a certain area is too strong, it is better to use a horizontal type. Secondly, when designing horizontal storage tanks, it is necessary to fully consider the bending moment generated by the weight of the tank itself, and leave an appropriate margin. Avoid accidents

Footprint consideration: Vertical containers require less space, while horizontal containers require more space. Safety performance: Vertical containers are subject to significant risk factors such as wind load and **. Horizontal containers are relatively simple; it is sufficient to consider the bending moment and the friction coefficient due to their own expansion

Why are earthquakes blocked when they occur together?

It’s basically a matter of floor space. We deal with small-scale chemical processing, and we use vertical units, which take up less space. I think that’s the main reason.

If the medium stored is a liquid, there are some differences between vertical and horizontal tanks. In horizontal storage tanks, the liquid level is usually low, so the design pressure of the tank shell can be set slightly higher; in this case, the static pressure of the liquid column can be ignored when calculating the pressure according to GB150 standards. In vertical storage tanks, the liquid level is generally high, and in most cases the static pressure of the liquid column cannot be ignored. And since the static pressure of the liquid column varies, the speed at which the liquid is loaded and unloaded should also vary, right?

In horizontal storage tanks, the liquid level is usually low; therefore, a slightly higher design pressure for the tank body is sufficient, and according to GB150 standards, the static pressure of the liquid column can be ignored when calculating the pressure. Vertical tanks take up less space, but the static pressure needs to be taken into account

I work at a chemical engineering design firm, and I think the main factor to consider is the floor space required. However, it seems that Sinopec uses vertical storage tanks for normal-pressure tanks and horizontal ones for non-normal-pressure tanks; the exact reason for this is not clear. . .