Methodology for Creating the Structural Shape of Steel Towers for Power Transmission Lines, Lightning Rods and Communication Towers

Transmission lines as part of the power grid infrastructure complex fulfil the function of ensuring uninterrupted power supply to consumers. An important link in the chain is the transmission line supports, as the safety of the entire line depends on the uninterrupted operation of each support. The trouble-free operation of the supports directly depends on three factors: the calculation of the justified design form, the correctly chosen mode of operation and the frequency of preventive maintenance. This paper presents calculation and analytical tools for selecting an effective structural form of lattice supports. By means of critical analysis of modern research in the field of calculation and design, data on the nature of damage and methods of strengthening of tower lattice supports in terms of the degree of elaboration of the research topic, the aim of the work and tasks aimed at its achievement, object and subject of the research are formulated. The results of modelling of geometrical dimensions of tower piers with one edge fracture are presented, characterizing the influence of geometry on the main design parameters of the structure, such as the first frequency of vibration, wind load and metal capacity of the structure. Based on the results of the computational and analytical study, a methodology for developing the structural form of steel lattice towers is summarized. The methodology can be applied equally to the design of transmission towers, lightning rod towers and cellular communication towers.