Telecommunication towers assessment system in consideration of earthquakes effects in Malaysia

Abstract

The main objectives of the study are to produce standard visual inspection procedure for telecommunication tower structures, secondly to evaluate the structural integrity of the existing towers and finally, to develop Telecommunication Tower Assessment System (TTAS). In order to produce the standard visual inspection procedure a meticulous strategy was implemented. Five phases of work included planning, site survey, development, evaluation and finally the application phase were carried out. Moreover, the integrity of existing towers was evaluated through seismic analysis of four (4) legged self-supporting steel towers with different geometrical cross sections and variable heights using International Building Code (IBC2000) and Eurocode (EC8) and SAP 2000 software. Seismic base shears, maximum joint displacements, and axial force of critical elements were calculated and were compared with allowable values. Besides that, a map locating all the towers was also produced on the seismic map considering 500 year return period for both Peninsular and East Malaysia. Both TTAS and map was later evaluated, verified and validated by subject matter experts. The study has developed a complete telecommunication tower?s assessment system that includes types of damages and severity inflicted to the towers and also matters related to it. This classification will make assessment easier and standardised for all inspection works carried out. With the aid of the seismic map, Telekom Malaysia will be able to further define priorities and establish programmes to apply available resources to the most critical towers nationwide. In short, the outcomes of this research helps to promote a uniform standard of practice among tower owners and related parties besides assessing relevant authorities to be more prepared and alert in terms of emergency management and hazard-preparedness due to the effect of earthquake events.