Why are earthquake-resistant features important for fuel-oil tanks?

Why are earthquake-resistant features important for fuel-oil tanks?

• A. To increase the weight of the tanks
• B. To prevent structural failure and spills during seismic events
• C. To enhance aesthetics during normal use
• D. To allow for easier relocation

Answer: (B)

Earthquake-resistant features are crucial for fuel-oil tanks primarily because they are designed to prevent structural failure and mitigate the risk of spills during seismic events. Such features include reinforced structures, flexible joints, and secure anchoring systems, all of which help the tanks withstand the forces generated by earthquakes. In the event of an earthquake, a tank that is not equipped with these features is at a greater risk of rupturing or tipping over, which can lead to significant fuel spills. These spills pose serious environmental hazards, create fire risks, and result in costly clean-up efforts. Therefore, the focus on maintaining the integrity of the tank structure during seismic activities is essential for safety and environmental protection. While increasing the weight of the tanks or enhancing aesthetics may have their own merits, they do not directly address the primary function of ensuring safety and stability during earthquakes. Similarly, easier relocation isn't relevant as the primary concern is maintaining safety during seismic events rather than facilitating movement.

Earthquake-resistant features are crucial for fuel-oil tanks primarily because they are designed to prevent structural failure and mitigate the risk of spills during seismic events. Such features include reinforced structures, flexible joints, and secure anchoring systems, all of which help the tanks withstand the forces generated by earthquakes.

In the event of an earthquake, a tank that is not equipped with these features is at a greater risk of rupturing or tipping over, which can lead to significant fuel spills. These spills pose serious environmental hazards, create fire risks, and result in costly clean-up efforts. Therefore, the focus on maintaining the integrity of the tank structure during seismic activities is essential for safety and environmental protection.

While increasing the weight of the tanks or enhancing aesthetics may have their own merits, they do not directly address the primary function of ensuring safety and stability during earthquakes. Similarly, easier relocation isn't relevant as the primary concern is maintaining safety during seismic events rather than facilitating movement.