MERIDIONAL IMPERFECTION IN COOLING TOWER

A detailed study of the effect of axisymmetric meridional imperfection in hyperbolic cooling towers is presented. The imperfection is represented by two conical frustrums connected at the middle of the imperfection. Approximate relationships to calculate the hoop forces and the meridional moment due to the imperfection have been derived. An approximate study of the effect of meridional cracks and reduced moment capacity of the shell on the forces in the imperfect portion is included to give an indication of the general behavior of the tower under those circumstances. Approximate expressions have been obtained to calculate the maximum allowable imperfection before serious increase in stresses can occur.