Published Paper Details:

The seismic safety of elevated water tanks is vital for reliable water supply systems in earthquake-prone regions. This study analyses and compares the seismic performance of reinforced concrete (RC) circular elevated tanks with different staging systems using STAAD.Pro Connect Edition. The investigation considers various bracing configurations--unbraced, diagonal, cross (X), V, K, inverted V, diamond, and solid shaft--along with two staging wall thicknesses (180 mm and 200 mm) and two staging heights. Seismic effects are studied under Zones III, IV, and V as per IS 1893 (Part 2): 2014, accounting for dead load, live load, hydrostatic pressure, and hydrodynamic forces. A parametric approach is adopted, developing multiple models under consistent loading. Key seismic response parameters such as lateral displacement, base shear, bending moment, shear force, and time period are evaluated. Results indicate that staging type strongly influences tank behaviour. Shaft-supported models provide maximum stiffness and seismic stability, reducing displacement and time period by up to 92% and 90%, respectively. However, these attract higher base shear and shear force, reflecting greater seismic demand. Among braced frames, X-bracing offers the best performance, significantly improving over unbraced staging. The study further shows that higher seismic zones and taller staging heights increase displacement and base shear. Despite their rigidity, shaft-supported tanks experience lower bending moments compared to braced frames. In conclusion, shaft-supported staging proves to be the most efficient option for seismic resistance, while X-bracing is preferable among frame systems. The findings provide design recommendations for constructing safe and economical elevated water tanks in moderate to high seismic regions.