Typical defects of lightning rod towers' flange connections
Abstract
Typical defects of lightning rod towers' flange connections
Incoming article date: 28.03.2024Lightning protection of tanks is important problem as accidents can cause catastrophic consequences for people, infrastructure and environment. In the article analysis of typical defects of steel lightning rod towers' flange connections is carried out. 16 towers built in 2000 in Novorossiysk as a part of oil tank farm were studied. Each 55-meter tall tower consists of 3 girths and 3 sections with bolted flange connections. During the analysis of technical documentation the following common defects were observed: cracks and deformations of girths near welding joints that connect them with reinforcing ribs; gaps between flanges and their radial displacement; weld leg lengths longer than allowed; presence of water, biological damage and corrosion. Reasons of said defects are analyzed. They consist of non-compliance with regulatory requirements during welding as well as insufficient attention to the thermotechnical issues. Recommendations for the repair and safe exploitation of lightning rod towers are given. The results can be used during the technical inspection of steel lattice towers with flange connections.
Keywords: bolt, bolted flange joint, defect, flange, inspection, joint, lattice tower, lightning rod, steel, steel tower