Finite element analysis of lateral pressure variations in square steel silos considering parametric impacts

Abstract

Abstract This study develops and validates a 3-D finite-element model for lateral pressures in square, flat-bottomed steel silos, challenging the applicability of conventional design methods. The model, using Mohr–Coulomb for wheat and surface-to-surface contact, closely matches observed pressures and demonstrates that slenderness h/a determines the pressure regime: Janssen-type asymptotic profiles in slender silos (h/a ≥ 7.5) change to Rankine-type linear profiles in squat silos (h/a ≤ 1.5). Therefore, using slender-silo formulae for squat designs may lead to inaccurate estimations of base pressures. A parametric study evaluates material influences: lateral pressure is significantly affected by Poisson’s ratio (raising from 0.28 to 0.45 more than doubles base pressure, + 110%) and wall friction µ, while it shows little sensitivity to Young’s modulus and cohesion. These results provide design-oriented recommendations for the safe and cost-effective sizing of silos across various geometries and granular materials.