A finite element formulation for column-supported hyperboloid cooling towers

Abstract

Abstract Column-supported hyperboloid cooling towers are analysed with a finite element formulation including the effects of thickness shear deformations and the term z R . Both shell and columns are modelled by using the same curved trapezoidal finite element with 40 degress of freedom. The stress concentration at the shell-column junctions is studied by taking into account the effect of the column-support width. The accuracy of the finite element is demonstrated with numerical examples and the results obtained in this investigation are compared with those obtained earlier.