Nonlinear spectral dynamic analysis of guyed towers. Part II: Manitoba towers case study

Dynamic response of large complex space structures under wind loading is important in terms of performance and safety. Conventional method of wind loading calculation has been used successfully in codes to analyze large space structures. The method can be applied by approximating the air pressure, induced by wind, on the surfaces of structures. Although this replaces a wind loading test using complicated wind tunnel tests for any structural systems, the accuracy of the method, in the case of complex geometry guyed tower structures, is a matter of consideration. Hence, it is desirable to search for a procedure with more accuracy and reliability. In this respect, attention is paid to the advanced spectral element method and the computational fluid dynamics. Using the proposed formulation, a material and geometric nonlinear dynamic analyses have been performed to simulate post-buckling behaviours and also collapse modes for series of Manitoba Hydro's guyed towers under extreme wind loading conditions. Key words: computational fluid dynamics, wind loading, collapse mode, nonlinear analysis, post-buckling.