Análisis estructural de una cisterna para un sistema contra incendios de una plaza comercial ubicada en el km 14.5 Vía a Samborondón

Abstract

The main objective of this work is to analyze the infrastructure of a reinforced concrete cistern designed for a firefighting system in a shopping mall located at km 14.5 on the road to Samborondón. This analysis focuses on identifying possible structural and operational deficiencies that may compromise the functionality and safety of the cistern in emergency situations. Based on this evaluation, improvements are proposed to optimize both its water storage and distribution capacity and its overall effectiveness within the firefighting system, ensuring compliance with current safety regulations. The development of this work includes a comprehensive study that covers several stages. First, a detailed review of the structural plans of the reinforced concrete cistern was carried out to understand the initial design and construction conditions. Then, technical inspections were carried out on site to assess the current state of the infrastructure, identifying possible problems such as cracks, leaks, corrosion of the reinforcement and other deteriorations characteristic of reinforced concrete exposed to adverse conditions. In addition, the SAP2000 computer tool was used to perform structural modeling and simulation that allowed the behavior of the cistern to be analyzed under different loads and scenarios, identifying critical points that might require intervention. The analysis also included an evaluation of the operational capacity of the cistern in terms of its storage and distribution of water within the fire-fighting system, considering its essential role in the prevention and control of fires in the shopping center. At the same time, the regulations and safety standards applicable to fire protection systems and reinforced concrete structures were reviewed, to ensure that the improvement proposals comply with the corresponding technical and legal requirements. The results obtained in this study allow the identification of existing deficiencies and the proposal of technical solutions based on structural engineering principles, guaranteeing the functionality and durability of the cistern. This work not only contributes to optimizing the performance of the reinforced concrete infrastructure, but also reinforces the overall safety of the fire-fighting system, minimizing risks for users and protecting the assets of the shopping center in case of emergencies.