Introduction

The Finite Element Analysis of an airport’s concrete pillar is essential for ensuring structural integrity. This case study concentrates on Static Analysis to assess force reactions, incorporating diverse load cases and wind pressure profiles derived from Computational Fluid Dynamics studies.

Challenges

Conducting static structural analysis for force reactions on the concrete pillar, integrating wind pressure profiles from CFD studies (resulting in 16 load cases), and meeting the acceptance criteria for the maximum force reaction at the pillar’s top surface are the primary challenges in this study.

Solution

Assuming homogeneous material, neglecting minor pressure profile variations from CFD studies, replacing trusses with solid blocks, and treating all truss contacts as fixed joints. The solution involves static structural analysis using FEA, integrating pressure profiles for wind forces in 16 load cases, and meeting acceptance criteria by reporting the maximum force reaction at the pillar’s top surface.

Benefits

The analysis ensures structural safety, optimizes design for resilience, promotes cost efficiency by addressing issues early on, validates performance, and provides decision support for the airport building’s design and construction.