Comparative Analysis of Concrete Fatigue Calculation Methods and Proposed Recommendations for the Determination of Design Parameters in Wind Turbine Towers

Abstract

While the theories and methods for designing the steel sections of wind turbine towers are relatively well established, the design of concrete tower sections, particularly the methodologies for concrete fatigue design, varies across different codes and standards. These methodologies often involve complex calculation parameters and formulas, which can be prone to misinterpretation and misapplication. This paper primarily traces the evolution of provisions in the fib Model Code and the Eurocode, offering recommendations for determining concrete mechanical properties, structural analysis methods, and fatigue design approaches. Furthermore, a concrete fatigue calculation example is presented based on an engineering case study. This example illustrates key considerations for selecting critical parameters and applying the relevant calculation formulas. The aim is to provide a more in-depth understanding and improve the application of concrete fatigue design principles.

Keywords

concrete wind turbine tower fatigue / structural analysis / design methodology / code comparison / determination of design parameters

References

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