Method for erection of generally cylindrical structures and apparatus in accordance with the method

Abstract

A method for erecting a generally cylindrical structure such as a tank and an apparatus erected in accordance with the method. The method includes a step of positioning a plurality of pre-assembled arcuate segments of a cylindrical wall at a location near a foundation on which the structure is to be erected. A first arcuate segment is disposed at a corresponding location on the foundation. Subsequent arcuate segments are also disposed at intended locations on the foundation such that segments intended to be adjacent to one another have axially-extending edges abutting one another. When positioning is completed such that an arcuate wall extends through a full 360°, seams between the various segments are sealed such as by welding.

1 . A method for erecting a generally cylindrical wall of an intended structure such that, when erected, an axis of said structure is oriented substantially vertically, comprising the steps of:
 (a) positioning a plurality of pre-assembled arcuate segments of said cylindrical wall at a location proximate a foundation on which said structure is to be erected;   (b) disposing a first arcuate segment at a corresponding situs on said foundation;   (c) disposing a second arcuate segment at a corresponding situs on said foundation such that an axially extending edge of said second arcuate segment generally abuts a corresponding axially extending edge of said first arcuate segment;   (d) positioning one or more additional arcuate segments at corresponding situses on said foundation such that an axially extending edge of each of said additional arcuate segments generally abuts a corresponding axially extending edge of an adjacent arcuate segment, wherein said generally cylindrical wall is completed; and   (e) sealing seams defined by abutting edges.   
   
   
       2 . A generally cylindrical wall erected in accordance with  claim 1 . 
   
   
       3 . A method in accordance with  claim 1  wherein axial dimensions of said arcuate segments are generally the same. 
   
   
       4 . A method in accordance with  claim 3  wherein said axial dimensions of said arcuate segments are generally the same as an intended height of the intended structure. 
   
   
       5 . A method in accordance with  claim 1  wherein said arcuate segments carry, spaced proximate each axially extending edge thereof, an axially extending flange, and wherein, when an axially extending edge of an arcuate segment generally abuts a corresponding axially extending edge of an adjacent arcuate segment, corresponding axially extending flanges are in substantially full engagement along an interface. 
   
   
       6 . A method in accordance with  claim 5  wherein said interface is arcuately spaced from an abutment of said corresponding axially extending edges. 
   
   
       7 . A method in accordance with  claim 1  wherein said sealing step comprises welding adjacent arcuate segments along said abutment of said corresponding axially extending edges.