Analysis of the structural stability of large biofuel hoppers under wind load

Abstract

Large open‑air biomass fuel hoppers at ports suffer from strong typhoon loads, while existing research lacks a systematic wind‑resistant assessment under full‑direction wind conditions. Using transient one‑way fluid‑structure interaction, this study analyzes the anti‑overturning performance of a large biomass hopper under 17‑grade wind in eight directions, covering unloaded and fully loaded cases. Structural stability is evaluated via displacement, stress, and support reactions. Results show that the maximum deformation and equivalent stress are 12.07 mm and 205.99 MPa for the unloaded hopper, and 20.72 mm and 314.05 MPa for the fully loaded one. The structure remains elastic with only minor local overstress. All leg support reactions are positive under all cases, and the wind‑induced overturning moment is less than the resistant moment. The hopper has sufficient safety against overturning and meets design requirements, providing a basis for wind‑resistant design of similar port equipment.