Time Domain Random Wind Response of Cooling Tower

Abstract

Random wind response analysis of a cooling tower is performed using the Monte‐Carlo simulation approach. A 48 d.o.f. quadrilateral shell element is used. The response analysis capability is first verified by finding the deterministic response of a cooling tower due to an artificial wind load. Five different wind simulation models are then tested, based on quasi‐steady aerodynamics and ARIMA models derived from measured data, all with different correlation assumptions in the meridional and circumferential directions. Time domain responses of a cooling tower for the five wind models are obtained and compared. For generating random shocks an equation relating the variances of pressure and velocity, and other quantities to the variance of random shocks is derived to provide input to the ARIMA velocity‐pressure transfer function model. The assumption of ergodicity is made. Results are presented in the form of time‐history response, mean, RMS values, peak values, and gust factors. Frequency domain results are also obtained for the most realistic example to compare with the time‐domain results. Favorable agreement is found.