Resonant frequencies in a rectangular liquid storage tanks: Experiments and finite element methods

In this paper, an experimental-numerical study of the overall dynamic response of concrete rectangular tanks is presented. In order to identify the natural frequencies of the modes that mainly contribute to the response, modal tests on a 2D rectangular tank model for different liquid level were carried out. Next, a numerical model that takes into account the coupling between experimental and numerical result was obtained. The simulation model was validated with experimental results and good agreement was achieved. The results obtained show the influence of liquid levels on natural frequencies and indicate that the wall flexibility has a significant effect on the dynamical characteristic of the analyzed system