The structural feasibility of timber wind turbines in the Netherlands

Inspired by the world's first timber tower for a multi-megawatt turbine, an investigation has been carried whether or not this design would be suited for Dutch wind conditions as well. Demands from design codes have been summarized and the frequency behaviour of these timber towers has been studied. Apart from the original softwood Cross...

Steel structure in an open car park - The influence of trapped smoke on the fire resistance of steel beams

A car in an open car park is on fire. The fire and the smoke unleash a heat that causes the temperature to rise. The open car park is made out of a steel frame and to be designed for a fire resistance of 60 minutes. This car fire is a local fire whereas flashover doesn’t occur. The crucial point of the fire is when the steel frame reaches the...

Force distribution and connection strength in timber lock gates

For the thesis the mortise and tenon joint between the rear post and cross beam in a wooden mitre gate is researched. The joint is an important part of timber lock gates. The force distribution inside the joint and the strength of a tenonned beam are two main focus points.

The wear behaviour of arch bridge bearings

Structural bearings are connections between the substructure and superstructure of the bridge and may allow translations and rotations. They also transmit the external forces, acting on the superstructure, to the foundation. In the past years the traffic loads and intensity on the European traffic system has continuously increased. Bridge...

Interaction between plate and column buckling

The interaction between plate buckling and column buckling has been studied. Also a design recommendation is made for engineers working with class 4 cross-sections.