What should be calculated for each installation when using a bottom hold down pad for anchoring a tank?

Calculating the thickness of the pad and the size of the anchors is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity and stability of the underground storage tank (UST) installation. The bottom hold down pad serves as a foundational element that provides support and prevents the tank from rising due to buoyancy forces, especially in areas with high groundwater levels.

An adequately designed pad must have the appropriate thickness to withstand the weight of the tank when it is full and to accommodate the forces acting upon it. Additionally, selecting the correct size of anchors is essential to secure the tank properly to the pad. This prevents potential movement or displacement of the tank during environmental changes or seismic activity.

While considerations such as aesthetic appeal, material costs, and color might be relevant in broader project planning, they do not directly influence the functionality and safety of the tank installation. Therefore, focusing on the pad’s thickness and anchor size ensures that the tank remains securely in place, minimizing the risk of leaks or spills, which is paramount in UST operations.