After MEI performs the structural
analysis, as a second phase of the work upon client
request, the deficient tower members are strengthened in
a variety of methods to increase their support
capacity.Our preference is to avoid field welding as
much as possible in order to not negatively affect the
steel composition and create stress concentrations in
the material.
For latticed self-support structures, the bracing
members and main leg members are strengthened by adding
new bracing members and/or by converting the deficient
members into built-up composite members using additional
steel shapes.
For guyed towers, the guying optimization is an integral
step in the modification design of this type of
structures and the mast is generally strengthened using
the same principles as self-support towers.
Another component of the towers is the foundation, and
in many cases, when a mast strengthening is required,
foundation modification is also required.
In addition to the above strengthening
methods, when modifying a tower for the purpose of
increasing its capacity, MEI first optimizes the
appurtenances involved and especially the transmission
lines arrangement and their layout.
This can have a
significant impact of the support capacity of the tower
and the extent of the strengthening required. MEI offers
unique modification solutions gained from its years of
experience. Our modification designs are easy to
install, field adaptable, maintenance friendly, reliable
and cost-effective.
Our technical design documentation is comprehensive and
complete with all related installation and fabrication
requirements for proper implementation of the design.