Decades after Matrix designed and constructed the EcoEléctrica LNG import terminal in Penuelas, Puerto Rico that supplies natural gas to a local power plant, the facility was local to a M6.4 earthquake. This natural disaster produced accelerations on the structure that exceeded the seismic hazard developed for the original design. Because of this, the tank was operating at approximately half of its working capacity.
Matrix maintained its commitment to the client and quality standards by supporting them in their efforts to bring the facility up to regulatory standards and the affected tank up to full operating capacity, by providing analyses that were used to support regulatory approval.
The engineering team collaborated with external subject matter experts including seismologists to investigate seismic hazards to the facility that were used for Matrix’s reanalysis of the structure.
The team verified that the tank system remained undamaged during the M6.4 event and will withstand any future natural disasters of similar or increased magnitude. Additionally, Matrix addressed regulatory concerns and evaluated the tank structure for increased working hazards.
scope of work
- The EcoEléctrica plant supplies 35% of the island of Puerto Rico’s power
- At completion, the stored volume of the tank increased by approximately 50%
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