Dynamic response of guyed masts

Natural frequencies of guyed masts were determined by modelling the mast as truss elements in one model and as beam-column elements in another model. Guys were modelled as cable elements in both cases. The natural frequencies from the two models agreed closely with each other. For the purpose of verification of the finite element modelling, two triangular steel latticed scale-modelled guyed masts were fabricated and tested on a shake table specially designed to test guyed masts. The experimental results were in good agreement with the results from the finite element analysis. The finite element modelling was then applied to six existing towers which are representative of the design practices in Canada. Based on the results of these analyses, the influence of ice accretion, guy initial tensions and torsion resistors on the dynamic characteristics of the guyed masts is discussed.