Structural behavior of guyed mast with asymmetrical anchors

This paper discusses the influence of asymmetrical anchors on guyed mast behavior under wind loads. Anchor asymmetry is due to variations on anchor levels in guyed mast placed at the top of hills. Six FEM models were developed with different guy anchor asymmetries. The mast was modeled as a three dimensional structure formed by pinned members (braced and horizontal members) and continuous members (columns). Cables were modeled with catenary formulation. Non-linear analysis under extreme wind loads was performed to calculate internal force on the guyed mast components. Comparison between members force on each model was made to assess structural behavior. Relative increments in internal forces in asymmetric models in relation to symmetric models were observed in all members. Results of this investigation show that asymmetry on anchor levels of guyed mast can produce a significant increase in internal forces of masts members, hence disregard of anchors asymmetry at guyed mast design can conduce to important errors.