How to calculate the stiffness of area spring in SAP2000

[hanilouis]

Dear Colleagues,

I'm currently preparing FEA model for steel circular tank tank. I would like to know how to calculate the area spring stiffness to simulate full contact between :

1- Tank bottom plate and RC beam
2- Tank Bottom plate and sand soil.

Thanks for your support and advice in advance.

 

[nachohp]

Hi,

You need to know the soil characteristics first (geotectinal report) and then use use area spring in sap2000 to apply the spring.

Regards