Structural assessment of 40 ft mini LNG ISO tank: Effect of structural frame design on the strength performance

Due to the escalating demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a low-emission and environmentally friendly energy source, ISO tank containers have emerged as an innovative solution to facilitate efficient and cost-effective mass transportation. The 40 ft ISO tank container, which encompasses a pressure vessel structure, is a versatile intermodal unit that seamlessly integrates into sea and land transportation networks. The main objective of this study is to present a comprehensive analysis for assessing the various frame design scenarios of the 40 ft ISO tank container for mini LNG carrier operation. The assessment is conducted under the provisions outlined in ASME Section VIII Division I code, which governs the design standards for boilers and pressure vessels. The finite-element analysis (FEA) scrutinizes three different structural design alternatives: frame thickness, the addition of support plates, and the addition of saddle supports, which are subjected to various loading conditions: stacking, lifting, and racking load tests. The analysis offers a comparative assessment of the safety level provided by the ASME design guidance in contrast to the FEA judgments based on ISO standards. It can be found that stacking and longitudinal load tests are more critical operational load scenarios. Increasing the frame thickness of the LNG ISO tank is more practical in increasing structural weight savings than adding more saddle supports and support plates.