Improving Structural Safety of L-Type Flange Joint for Wind Towers

Abstract

This paper focuses on the design modification of L-type flange joint geometry in wind towers, aiming to enhance its structural safety. For this aim, current design issues of existing flange joints are discussed. The numerical simulations indicate that the threaded bolt and flange-to-shell junction are critical locations where failure may happen. Further discussion to improve structural safety is applied for an existing 5 MW flange joint. Through parametric studies, the major factors influencing ultimate strength are identified. The results show that the aspect ratio plays an important role in increasing the structural safety of the flange joints, while the width of the flange segment weakens the stiffness of the flange-to-shell junction. The findings in this study are expected to provide a useful reference for designing the L-type flange joints in practical engineering fields.

Keywords

• wind tower
• L-type flange joint
• failure mode
• finite element modeling