Towers, Masts, Cables and Special Structures
Towers and masts are often wind-sensitive structures due to the high level of flexibility resulting from their height and slenderness. Dynamic response due to vortex shedding and buffeting often controls the design. For observation towers used by the general public, accelerations due to dynamic response are important in that they control occupant comfort. Because of the importance of dynamics, model tests in a wind tunnel are required to provide the information required for design.
BMT Fluid Mechanics has significant experience in assessing the effects of wind on tall towers, masts, cables and special structures. Services range from initial design reviews and appraisals to in-depth model tests in BMT's wind tunnels using sophisticated measurement and analysis techniques.
Expertise in relation to wind effects on tall towers and masts include:
- Wind loading for structural design
- Vortex shedding response and mitigation
- Buffeting response
- Assessment and solutions for divergent instabilities
- Cable vibrations
- Occupant comfort
- Fatigue loading
- Design of tuned mass dampers