Finite Element Analysis of GRP Antenna Shrouds
Background
GRP antenna shrouds and enclosures have been widely used by the mobile-telecoms industry for a number of years, due to their combination of RF transparency and design freedom. However recent concerns regarding the structural integrity of a number of existing installations have resulted in a series of inspection/replacement programmes being rolled out across the country.
GlassFabs Managing Director, Chris Hill, explains further, “The telecoms industry discovered that several existing GRP installations were failing due to a combination of poor design and construction. The large – and often heavy – structures had been installed onto rooftops nationwide and were either fixed using inadequate fixings, or attached to inappropriate existing structures. As a result, there was a high possibility that some of the structures could be blown to the ground. An industry task force was created and very specific guidelines were drawn up covering both new installations and the replacement of existing, defective structures.”
Requirement
GRP fabricator, GlassFabs Ltd, specialises in the fabrication and installation of bespoke GRP and steel products and solutions for the telecoms industry.
It enlisted the help of Coventive in providing replacement antenna shrouds and enclosures for telecoms applications.
GlassFabs wanted to provide each of its clients with detailed structural analyses, to demonstrate how every installation is designed to withstand anticipated loads. However, finding a structural engineer with experience in the use of composites proved challenging.
Our Solution
To meet the requirements of GlassFabs, Coventive responded to its brief by:
- Creating a model based on the client’s design specification, considering all methods of fastening, fixing and structural integrity.
- Determining the load cases applicable, according to the size and shape of the construction, and the climate and terrain in which the construction will be located.
- Calculating the amounts of materials required to provide the appropriate properties for the application.
- Determining the design factors that must be taken into consideration for the finite element (FE) analysis of the model.
- Analysing the FE model, using a variety of load-case scenarios and to report the conclusions clearly and concisely.
The Result
By providing detailed structural analysis with each job, GlassFabs is able to demonstrate the robustness and reliability of its installations to its clients. Furthermore, it is able to differentiate from many of its competitors who do not routinely offer such assurances.
In doing so, GlassFabs has positioned itself as a preferred supplier for many of the telecoms companies and is now benefiting from a significant growth in sales as a result.
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Computer-aided Design (CAD)
Our design engineers can help you visualise your products using computer-aided design (CAD), or can prepare your existing CAD models for structural analysis
Design Codes and their Application
Where there is a requirement to design a composite component in accordance with a specific standard or norm, we can work with you to ensure design compliance
Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
A computational tool for simulating and analysing the response of a structure to applied mechanical or thermal loads - used for design verification and optimisation
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We can undertake on-site inspections of your composite assets to assess ongoing fitness-for-purpose and, if necessary, suggest remedial action
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Construction
Their low weight, durability and mouldability are the key drivers for using composites in infrastructure applications. Lightweight composite bridges, tanks and pipes can be easily installed, whilst allowing designers to achieve freeform shapes. Our consultants can help you assess the fitness for purpose of your composite structures.
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