Influence of inter-module connection properties on dynamic behaviour of self-erecting modular tower

The increasing of modular constructions underscores the need for demountable structures. This is particularly crucial for wind turbine towers, which experience rapid ageing due to technological advancements. Inter-module connections (IMCs) play a crucial role in these structures; therefore, it is necessary to examine the properties of IMCs to understand their impact on the dynamic characteristics of a newly developed type of self-erected modular towers (SeT). This study investigates the impact of varying IMCs stiffness on the natural frequencies of SeT. To achieve this, a parametric study in ABAQUS was conducted using a full-scale model of a SeT with different vertical and horizontal IMC properties. Bushing connectors were utilized as IMCs, which are characterized by three translational and three rotational stiffness coefficients. The results indicate that IMC stiffness affects the natural frequencies of SeT. A ±10% variation in the stiffness of the IMCs resulted in a negligible effect on the natural frequency, with changes of less than 2%. However, Further variation in the stiffness led to substantial changes in natural frequencies across all modes and highlighted the sensitivity of SeT to IMC stiffness changes. These findings underscore the critical role of IMC properties in the dynamic behaviour of modular towers. Properly estimating and optimizing IMC stiffness is essential for the design and performance of such structures.