Afes foundation design

[Vertical Vessel Foundation Analysis and Design Guide]
PURPOSE
This practice establishes guidelines and recommended procedures for the design of vertical vessel
foundations using AFES(=Automatic Foundation Engineering System). AFES can design vertical vessel
foundations as either soil- or pile-supported footings.
CONTENTS
This practice comprises the following:
 Create or Open New Project
 Setting Soil and Pile Parameters.
 Creating New Structure.
 Exporting Load Combination.
 Assign Foundation Grouping.
 Editing footing sizes and other parameters.
 Pier and Footing Reinforcement
 Set Pile Layout for Pile Foundations.
 Import Load Combination for various foundation groups.
 Performing Design and Analysis functions.
 Quantity BOM(Bill of Material) function
 Construction Drawing
 Export 3D Modeling Data (PDMS, PDS Frame Work Plus)
There is a need to gather all necessary data from responsible disciplines such as load data of
machine or equipment from Mechanical group, etc. before proceeding to modeling. You can input
loads directly to AFES through the “Load Case/Combination” feature or import superstructure
analysis result files for foundation analysis and design.

Below figures are foundation types commonly used for vertical vessel equipment supports.
Use : OCT Block Foundation
Use : OCT Block Foundation

Use : OCT Foundation
Design data sample for equipment is shown below based from actual projects. This equipment is a vertical
vessel supported by octagonal shape foundation.
DESIGN DATA
Equipment Design Data

Sample spreadsheet calculation for wind and seismic load is presented below which was applied for actual
project. This kind of calculation can be done by manual, excel, visual basic or in any form provided to satisfy
code and standard requirements.

1. Create or Open New Project
The first step is to enter project specific items. These items include general data, client data and Job data
about a project. General data includes project No. Project Name, Client Name, Site Name, any more. The
client data includes your client manager name, e-mail, number of telephone and fax, address. Job data
includes assigned engineer, supervisor, duration of project, project rate that values the program needs to use
for the specific project.
The Project Number and Structure Name entered in Project Information will display as a menu header
Note: General Data should be input. This data needs to use for the specific project.
To open the existing project, or create a new project, Click on the “New/Open Project” from Top toolbar
menu
1.1 Create New Project
a) From “File” menu, select “New/Open Project”.
A window dialogue will display as shown.

b) Select “New Project” option then click “OK” button.
A window dialogue will display as shown.
c) Enter information then click “OK” button.
Or

1.2 Open Existing Project
a) From “File” menu, select “New/Open Project”.
A window will display as shown.
b) Select “Open Existing Project”.
c) Select a project then click “OK” button.

2. Setting Soil and Pile Parameters.
Setting of constants options include design information that AFES needs in order to design a foundation.
This includes a number of parameters such as design code, safety factor, bearing capacity of soil, capacity of
pile, material and unit weight, clear cover, allowable increase of soil, allowable increase of pile, strength
reduction factors, supports and anchor bolt options.
In case of New project, set all design parameters from the “Setting of Constant” form.
2.1 Set “Bearing Capacity of Soil” from the “Setting of Constant” command.
a) Click “Setting of Constant” button.
b) Select “Bearing Capacity of Soil” tab.
c) Enter name in the “Soil Bearing Capacity Name” text box.
d) Enter “Soil Bearing Capacity (Qa)” value.
e) Click “Save” button.

2.2 Set “Capacity of Pile” from the “Setting of Constant” button.
a) Select “Capacity of Pile” tab.
b) Enter name in the “Pile Name” text box.
c) Select “Pile Type”.
d) Select “Pile Shape”.
e) Enter values for “Pile dimensions”
f) Enter values for “Allowable Capacities”.
g) Enter values for “Elastic Modulus (Ep)” and “ Pile Area”.
h) Click “Save” button.

3. Creating New Structure.
Every input and output data can be saved in AFES Data Base according to projects, which provide work
efficiency in control over project information. An engineer is able to create a file for a new project, reuse
data from projects conducted previously, or eliminate old and useless data for the user’s own sake.
3.1 Choose “Create New Structure” button.
“Add : New Structure Name” dialog window will appear. Input structure name, and then click on the “New”
button.

4. Exporting Load Combination.
This function enables us to export load combination data that was saved in text file in AFES program. After
exporting the file, it will be available for import in this program.
4.1. Export Load Combination before assigning group otherwise they will be deleted.
a) Click “Load Case/Combination” button.
b) Click “Load Combination” button.
A warning message will appear as shown.
c) Click “OK” button.
The Load Combination form will appear as shown.
d) Click “Export” button.
e) Choose directory to save file, assign file name then click “Save” button.

5. Assign Foundation Grouping.
The Assign Foundation Grouping command is used for assigning group for models with multi-foundations.
This is very important because it eliminates repetitions of commands. Foundations with the same load
combinations are recommended to join in one group.
The available foundation types are as follows;
The foundation modules in red box shown in above figure are normally used for vertical vessel equipment.
At the end of this step, we will create the structure as shown below.
5.1 Click “Assign Foundation Grouping” button.

5.2 Assign group for nodes 1 and 5.
a) Click “New” button.
b) Assign name from the “Group name” text box.
c) Select “Octagonal” from the “Group type”.
d) Select “Non Pile fdn.” option.
e) Check “Block foundation”.
f) Select “Non Pile fdn.”
g) Select “Different size (Each foundation)”
h) Select nodes 1 and 5 from the “Using node list” form.
i) Click “Save” button.

d) Select “Non Pile fdn.” option.
e) Select “Different size (Each foundation)”
f) Select nodes 2 and 6 from the “Using node list” form.
g) Click “Save” button.

d) Select “Pile fdn.” option.
e) Select “Different size (Each foundation)”.
e) Select nodes 3 and 4 from the “Using node list” form.
f) Click “Save” button.
d) Select “Block foundation”.
e) Select “Pile fdn.” option.
f) Select “Different size (Each foundation)”.
g) Select nodes 7 and 8 from the “Using node list” form.
h) Click “Save” button.

The structure outcome is shown below.

6. Editing footing sizes and other parameters.
The Feature Data (Dimension) command is used to define the dimensions and other parameters necessary for
the foundation and piers.
6.1 Edit footing size of group “G1”.
a) Select “G1” from the “Group” selection in top menu.
b) Click “Feature Data/Dimension” button.
c) Choose “SUPT-01” in the “Soil Name” selection.
<Footing tab>

<Pier tab>
d) Enter values as shown in the “Feature” form for “Footing”.

d) Enter values as shown in the “Feature” form for “Footing” and “Pier”.
<Footing tab>

<Pier tab>
d) Enter values as shown in the “Feature” form for “Footing” and “Pier”.

c) Enter values as shown in the “Feature” form for “Footing” and “Pier”.
d) Click “Save” button.

7. Pier and Footing Reinforcement
The Reinforcement Data command is used to assign bar sizes and spacing for piers and footings.
Reinforcement bar sizes depend on the design code designated in the Setting of Constant command. Set of
bar array options are available in the Footing option. The arrangement of footing bars are parallel to the X
and Y axis except for Tank1 and Tank2 Ring type modules which are in radial and longitudinal directions.
Below are our based from our company standards.
Minimum Pier Reinforcement
Octagons 4'- 0" to 5'- 10": 8 - #4 vertical with #4 ties at 15 inches maximum.
Octagons larger than 12- 0": 32 - #5 vertical with #5 ties at 15 inches maximum.
Pedestals larger than 8'- 0" in diameter will have a mat of reinforcing steel at the top.
The requirement for additional vertical reinforcing for anchor bolt development will be checked in
accordance with Company Structural Engineering Guide.
From the main tool bar, click the “Reinforcement data” button. Reinforcement data form will appear as
shown in below figure.
7.1 Block Foundation

a) Set Array Type
Select from the array types of footing reinforcement layout. Different forms for single and double layer
arrangement are presented.
b) Set “Footing” reinforcement arrangement.
c) Select “Save” then “Close” button.

7.2 Octagonal Foundation
a) Set Array Type
Select from the array types of footing reinforcement layout. Different forms for single and double
layer arrangement are presented.
b) Set “Footing” reinforcement arrangement.

c) Select ‘Pier’ or footing tab.
Enter the values of footing re-bar as shown.

d) Select “Save” then “Close” button.
Fore further discussions, refer to Help documents.

8. Set Pile Layout for Pile Foundations.
The Pile Data command is used to layout and assign piles in the foundation. Regular pile arrangements are
available for circular or rectangular arrays.
This function is activated only when the selected type is Pile fdn. in the Assign Foundation Grouping
command. Define pile features first before proceeding to this function in the Setting of Constant command.
8.1 Set Pile Arrangement for foundation group “G3 – F5”. (Circular Array)
a) Select “G3” from the “Group” selection and “3(F5)” from the “Pier” in top menu.
b) Click “Pile Data” command.
c) Select “Array Wizard” tab.
d) Select “Origin Point”.
e) Select “PHC-12” from the “Pile Name” selection.
f) Set “Circular” option.
g) Enter “Star Angle”, “No.” and “Pile Circle Dia. (PCD)”.
h) Click “Regenerate” button.
i) Click “OK” button.
Repeat above steps in creating new circular pile array arrangement then click “Add Draw” to include to
defined pile arrangement.

8.2 Set Pile Arrangement for foundation group “G3-F6”. (Rectangular by Coordinates)
a) Select “G3 from the “Group” selection and “4(F6)” from the “Pier” in top menu.
b) Click “Pile Data” command.
c) Select “Coordinates”.
d) Select “Origin Point”.
c) Select “PHC-12” from the “Pile Name” selection.
d) Click “Add” button 18 times to define 18 piles.
e) Enter coordinate values from the corresponding text boxes as shown.
f) Click “OK” button.

9. Import Load Combination for various foundation groups.
The Load Case/Combination command is used to define, add, edit or delete load cases and combinations.
Assigned load cases can be combined with factors in accordance with a few design methods and
specifications. Mainly applied load combinations are Allowable Strength Load Combination and Ultimate
Load Combination. Combinations by Allowable Strength Design are normally applied with 1.0 factored
value.
The purpose of the combinations is to take into account soil bearing capacity, sliding, overturning, uplift
check, and pile capacity check for a pile supported foundation.
Combinations referring to Ultimate Strength Design are used for footing reinforcement, pier design, one way
shear check, and taking different factors for various cases.
Below are load cases and load combinations usually used for vertical vessel footing based from ACI code.
Load cases definitions are also discussed for further information. These are also based from our actual
projects.
DESIGN LOAD CASE
A vertical vessel or tower is subjected to the loading conditions mentioned under general loads.
The default load cases for a vertical vessel foundation that AFES generates are as follows:
- Operating Load
- Erection or Empty Load
- Test Load
- Wind Load X Direction
- Wind Load Y Direction
- Earthquake Load Empty X Direction
- Earthquake Load Empty Y Direction
- Earthquake Load Operation X Direction
- Earthquake Load Operation Y Direction
Vertical Loads
Erection Weight: Fabricated weight of vessel, generally taken from vessel drawing, plus internals, platforms,
manways, and piping that are actually erected with the vessel.
Empty Weight: Fabricated weight of vessel plus weight of internals, piping, insulation, fireproofing, and
platforms; generally taken from vessel drawing.
Operating Weight: Empty weight plus weight of operating liquid or catalyst; generally taken from vessel

drawing.
Test Weight: Empty weight plus weight of water required for hydrostatic test; generally taken from vessel
drawing.
It should be determined whether a hydrostatic test will actually be done in the field. It is generally desirable
to design for test weight since unforeseen circumstances may occur.
The above loads should be considered as dead loads when applying load factors used in ultimate strength
design.
Wind Loads
Wind loads should be calculated in accordance with the job specifications and Company Structural
Engineering Guidel: Wind Load Calculation.
Wind loads are normally calculated by the Mechanical group, however, verification by the Structural group
may be required. Wind loads calculated by hand should be compared to the computer printout. If the two
results compare favorably, the mechanical results should be used for foundation design. If the results do not
compare favorably, the differences shall be jointly discussed and resolved.
When calculating or checking wind loads, due consideration should be given to factors which may
significantly affect total wind loads such as the application of dynamic gust factors or the presence of
spoilers on the vessel.
Seismic Loads
In earthquake zones, seismic forces determined in accordance with job specifications, usually conforming
with the UBC (Uniform Building Code), will replace wind forces when greater. Refer to Structural Company
Engineering Guide: Earthquake Engineering, for seismic design considerations and procedures.
Seismic loads calculated by the Mechanical group shall be independently verified as appropriate by the
Structural group.
Thermal Loads
Thrusts due to thermal expansion of piping will be included in the operating load combinations, when
deemed advisable. Dead load factors will be applied to the resultants of piping thermal loadings. Consult
with the Pipe Stress Engineer for any thermal loads that are to be considered.
DESIGN LOAD COMBINATION
The default allowable or unfactored load combinations for a vertical vessel foundation generated by AFES
depend on the concrete design code selected. For eg if ACI code is selected, the combinations are as follows:
- Self Weight + Oper
- Self Weight + Oper + Wind X Direction

- Self Weight + Oper + Wind Y Direction
- Self Weight + Oper + EQ X Direction
- Self Weight + Oper + EQ Y Direction
- Self Weight + Erec or Empty
- Self Weight + Erec + Wind X Direction
- Self Weight + Erec + Wind Y Direction
- Self Weight + Erec + EQ X Direction
- Self Weight + Erec + EQ Y Direction
- Self Weight + Test + 0.33Wind X Direction
- Self Weight + Test + 0.33Wind Y Direction
- 1.4Self Weight + 1.4Oper
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05Oper + 1.275Wind X Direction
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05Oper + 1.275 Wind Y Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9Oper + 1.3 Wind Y Direction
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05Oper + 1.4025EQ X Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9Oper + 1.43EQ X Direction
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05Oper + 1.4025 EQ Y Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9Oper + 1.43EQ Y Direction
- 1.4Self Weight + 1.4Erec or 1.4Empty
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05 Erec + 1.275 Wind X Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9 Erec + 1.3Wind X Direction
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05 Erec + 1.275 Wind Y Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9 Erec + 1.3Wind Y Direction
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05 Erec + 1.4025 EQ X Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9 Erec + 1.43 EQ X Direction
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05 Erec + 1.4025EQ Y Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9 Erec + 1.43EQ Y Direction
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05Test + 0.42Wind X Direction
- 1.05Self Weight + 1.05Test + 0.42Wind Y Direction
For eg if BS81100 code is selected, the combinations are as follows
- 1.6Self Weight + 1.6Oper
- 1.4Self Weight + 1.4Empty + 1.2Wind X Direction
- 1.4Self Weight + 1.4Empty + 1.2Wind Y Direction
- 1.2Self Weight + 1.2Oper + 1.2Wind Y Direction

- 1.6Self Weight + 1.4Test + 0.6Wind X Direction
- 1.6Self Weight + 1.4Test + 0.6Wind Y Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9Empty + 1.2Wind X Direction
- 0.9Self Weight + 0.9Empty + 1.2Wind Y Direction
- 1.2Self Weight + 1.2 Oper + 1.0 EQ X Direction + 0.5Platform
- 1.2Self Weight + 1.2 Oper + 1.0 EQ Y Direction + 0.5Platform
You can actually create new load combinations through the Load Combination button but in this example,
we will use Import command.
a) Click Load Combination button.
The Load Combination form will display as shown.
b) Click “Import” button.
c) Access the load combination file then click “Open” button.
A warning message will appear as shown.

d) Select appropriate button as explained in the warning message form.
Repeat same procedure for the other foundation groups.

10. Performing Design and Analysis functions.
AFES executes Foundation Analysis and Design according to design standards widely accepted. It is
assumed that all external forces are loaded at the center of the piers and the connection between the pier and
the footing is considered to be rigid enough to carry those forces. Strength, stability and sectional design of
components of footing, pier, corbels and tie girders are properly examined.
The design codes of AFES support ACI318-99, 02, BS 8110, Korean, AIJ-WSD99, CP-65 and IS456(2000).
10.1 Click on the “Foundation Analysis/Design” button to be able to start analysis and design.
10.2 Select “Foundation Design New Version”.
10.3 Click “OK” button.
For through discussion on setting other functions such as General, Temperature and Shrinkage/Stability, Tank
Design, Detail Report Option and Contents, you may refer to help menu.
10.4 Using “Conventional Rigid Method”.
a) Select “Rigid Method Foundation Design” option.

b) Click “Analysis” button.
c) Click “Report” button.

The calculation report will display as shown below.

11. Quantity BOM(=Bill of Materials) function
BOM functions are used for estimate of earthworks including other related items such as excavation, backfill,
disposal, concrete, lean concrete, crushed stone, grout, formworks, protection materials, anchor bolts and
steel reinforcements.
Options for BOM take off for active structure and all structures in a project is supported.
11.1 For Active Foundation structure.
a) From “Design” menu, select “Quantity (BOM) then “Take off BOM 3D”.
b) Set parameters from the “Afes – Bill of Material” form.

The “Bill of Material” form will display as shown below.
11.2 For All Foundation structures.
a) From “Design” menu, select “Quantity (BOM) then “Take off BOM 3D (All Structure)”.

b) Set parameters from the “Afes – Bill of Material” form.
d) Check structures to include BOM Take off calculation from the form below.
e) Click “OK” button.

The “Bill of Material” form will display as shown below.

12. Construction Drawing
AFES is a completely integrated software package for automatically producing drawings of reinforcing
details for foundations that have been analyzed and designed using AFES. AFES interfaces with AutoCAD
and MicroStation to create a construction drawing with bar-schedule.
The Export DXF File command is used to export the drawing files made from AFES to other programs such
as AutoCAD and MicroStation. Standard drawings are already set up for various design codes.
The program will create the DWG or DXF file format and display a construction drawing through a viewer.
The drawing report consists of the Standards, Layout and Drawing detail including plan and sections of
foundation with reinforcement schedules. You can set from this command the drawing preferences to be
utilized before exporting to AutoCAD.
a) Click “Export DXF File” button.
A form will display as shown below.
b) Set options from this form.

Drawing details will display as below.

13. Export 3D Modeling Data (PDMS, PDS Frame Work Plus)
Today, plant design works involve many design parts, modeling objects from each part allows other parts to
assess those object on their work process helping streamlining the work process through project completion.
A 3D foundation model of the objects designed by various design parts effectively communicates the
geometric design data. Therefore automating the work process from design to 3D modeling forms an integral
component of reducing overall project cost. With our design to modeling interface from AFES to
Frameworks Plus, you will experience significant productivity.
13.1 Export to PDS
a) Click “Export PDS Data” button.
A dialogue form will display as shown.
b) Set Output unit and coordinate mapping options.
c) Check “Send Model Data to PDS” option then click “OK” button.
13.2 Export to PDMS
a) Click “Export PDMS Data” button.
A dialogue form will display as shown.
b) Set various parameters accordingly and click “OK” button.
For further discussions, you may refer to Help PDF manuals.

Afes foundation design

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