Work

Mechanisms of Wind‐Induced Vibration Fatigue Fracture in Large Cylindrical–Conical Steel Cooling Towers

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Steel cooling towers, with their lighter weight, greater flexibility, and lower damping, are more susceptible to wind‐induced damage compared to hyperbolic concrete towers. This study investigates the fatigue fracture mechanisms of cylindrical–conical steel cooling towers (CCSCTs) under high wind loads. Large eddy simulation (LES) techniques determine the three‐dimensional (3D) wind load distribution, and a 3D finite element model incorporating elastoplastic material damage is developed in LS‐DYNA to simulate the wind‐induced collapse process. Results reveal a critical wind speed of 52 m/s, with failure mechanisms driven by interlayer translation and cross‐sectional deformation. The stiffening trusses restrict section deformation but concentrate internal forces, while the auxiliary trusses mitigate these forces and provide stability. Key fracture zones include the conical section top (72°, −108°) and tower top (0°) for tension and tower top (±12°) for compression. These findings provide the ultimate limit state (ULS) design criteria for CCSCTs.

Source: Fatigue & Fracture of Engineering Materials & Structures

DOI: 10.1111/ffe.14668

Authors: Hongxin Wu, Shitang Ke, Hao Wang, Wenxin Tian, Feitian Wang, Tongguang Wang

Institution: Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Language: English

Topic: Structural Load-Bearing Analysis

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,860