Fracture probability analysis of crack occurrence on a floating roof due to thermal stress

Several cracks were found on some actual floating roofs of a crude oil tank in the oil refinery located in southern Japan. We assumed that one of reasons would be due to thermal stress caused by temperature changes during the day. In order to consider whether the thermal stress could the cause damages on the floating roof, strain and temperature were measured on the actual floating roof by using optical fiber gauges. Furthermore, fracture possibility due to thermal stress was calculated to discuss whether thermal stress could cause fracture or not. As a result, the probability showed that thermal stresswasnot enough to cause fracture. Anotherexternal factor such as Typhoon could be related.