Hydrostatic Pressure Simulation of Process Tank (SolidWorks FEA)

This project presents a static structural analysis of an industrial process tank (dorna) subjected to hydrostatic pressure, performed using SolidWorks Simulation. The study aimed to evaluate stress distribution, structural displacements, and strain levels resulting from the internal fluid pressure acting on the tank walls. The applied load was defined based on the hydrostatic pressure equation P = ρ·g·h, adopting an equivalent internal pressure of 30 mbar, converted and applied in SI units. The tank was modeled using shell elements with a minimum wall thickness of 15 mm and material properties corresponding to AISI 304 stainless steel. Boundary conditions and constraints were defined to represent realistic operational conditions. Three main analyses were performed: • von Mises stress evaluation to verify the elastic limit condition • Resultant displacement (URES) to assess global structural behavior • Equivalent strain distribution to identify critical regions The results showed a maximum von Mises stress of approximately 143 MPa, corresponding to about 70% of the material yield strength, confirming structural safety under the applied load. Displacements and strains remained within acceptable limits, validating the design thickness and overall structural integrity of the tank.