Eccentric loading of a 25 m long composite column subjected to a combination of axial compression and transverse gravity loading using a horizontal test method
This article presents a feasibility study where fibre reinforced structural elements are assembled into long slender columns using adhesive bonding. The columns are intended to be part of an externally guyed high voltage transmission tower where they are subjected to a combination of compressive and transverse loads. The article has shown that 25 m long poles can be made with small tolerances in both angularity and concentricity. Previous published scientific work on buckling of composite columns was applied to predict the behaviour of the pole as it was being loaded in compression to 1200 kN or within 5% of its critical load in a bespoke horizontal test jig. The confidence in the material, the structural elements, the analysis method and the quality of the test equipment has shown that there is a potential in further optimization of the structure that will ultimately be a part of a high voltage composite tower.