Prüfung der Stützenbelastung an Kugelbehältern durch faseroptische Verformungsmessungen

Stability of spherical tanks stored on retaining piles is to be proven according to German set of rules (AD-set of rules/stability proof for pressure tanks) in recurring checks. A crucial criterion thereby exists in the determination of'the real load at the piles, in order to avoid a failure of the tank through breaking or tilting. The determination of the stabilily of the piles so far usually took place by ultrasonic wall thickness measurements or deformation measurements with resistance strain gauges during the pressure test. In the company Ruhr Oel GmbH Gelsenkirchen a measurement with fiber-optic deformation sensors took place during the pressure tests of three spherical tanks. With help of the measurement results the real tilting stress at the piles is determined and compared with the results of the static. This is the basic for the assessment of the pile stability, hearing and foundation. The sensors can he applied within highly explosive areas wilhout additionally protection. They have a small installation expenditure. The measuring accuracy is very high (measuring length approx. 2.0 m). The sensors are insensitive in relation to humidity, oscillations, corrosion and electromagnetic field. The measurement takes place temperature-compensated. The analysis of the results of measurement can be carried out parallel to the filling and emptying process. so critical operating conditions can be prevented. The sensors can he attached only temporary, thus the sensors can be used for further measurements of other objects and can be stored in inside environment.