The construction process for pre-stressed ultra high performance concrete communication tower

PLoS One. 2020 Nov 4;15(11):e0238654. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238654. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Towers are important structures for installing radio equipment to emit electromagnetic waves that allow radio, television and/or mobile communications to function. Feasibility, cost, and speed of the construction are considered in the design process as well as providing stability and functionality for the communication tower. This study proposes the new design for construction of segmental tubular section communication tower with ultra-high-performance fibre concrete (UHPFC) material and prestress tendon to gain durability, ductility, and strength. The proposed mix design for UHPFC in this study which used for construction of communication tower is consisted of densified Silica Fume, Silica fine and coarse Sand and hooked-ends Steel Fiber. The prestressed tendon is used in the tower body to provide sufficient strength against the lateral load. The proposed design allows the tower to be built with three precast segments that are connected using bolts and nuts. This paper presents a novel method of construction and installation of the communication tower. The advantages of proposed design and construction process include rapid casting of the precast segment for the tower and efficient installation of segments in the project. The use of UHPFC material with high strength and prestress tendon can reduce the size and thickness of the tower as well as the cost of construction. Notably, this material can also facilitate the construction and installation procedure.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Compressive Strength
  • Construction Materials*
  • Telecommunications / instrumentation*

Grants and funding

This research receives support from Dura Technology Sdn. Bhd. (https://dura.com.my) via Dr. Voo Yen Lai with grant project with Vot No. 6300195. Dura Technology Sdn. Bhd. received this fund from Ministry of Science Technology & Innovation, Malaysia (https://www.mestecc.gov.my) for the project entitled as “Development and construction of Internet Transmission Tower Using Ultra High Performance Concrete”. Their help and support are gratefully acknowledged. The sponsors or funders have no any role in the study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.