Rational Evaluation of Temperature Effects on a Tall, Long & Slender Tower

This paper discusses a study that was performed to assess the effects of annual temperature changes on a 200 m tall, 165 m long tower with special features in plan and elevation. A rational approach was followed to study several thermal loading scenarios considering various assumptions of construction start time, duration, and temperature variation. The thermally induced forces and deformations in structural members were computed using finite element analysis and hand calculations. Various references were used to compute structural demands considering thermal loads and shrinkage, and to predict the frequency and size of expected cracking and required slab reinforcement. Detailing recommendations were developed taking into account the unique geometry and structural configuration of the building. The method is based on rational principles, and can be applied to other buildings with different configurations and environmental conditions.