Einfluss imperfekter Ringflanschverbindungen auf die Ermüdungsfestigkeit von kreiszylindrischen Stützen

Effects of imperfect ring flange connections on the fatigue resistance of cylindrical columns.

For cableway installations, wind turbines, chimneys etc. often tower-like steel constructions from cylindrical or conical tubing sections are used, which are bolted by means of L-shaped flange connections. Due to imperfections from welding distortion and high dynamic loads the resistance of the flange connections will be frequently achieved. In many cases the ultimate load (ULS) proof becomes less important and the fatigue assessment (FLS) is determining the dimensions.
This contribution contains investigations of imperfect flange connections of circular cable car towers on fatigue. A large scale test was performed to prove the fatigue strength of the entire flange connection (bolts, welding seam, tube section). Parallel accomplished FE-computations serve as comparison to the laboratory test results. As conclusion a possible procedure to consider flange imperfections for the practical dimensioning is pointed out.