When designing large composite structures, lightweight construction is only one part of the challenge. Verifying that the structure can withstand its service conditions is just as critical.
For this project, Solico was responsible for the structural verification of two composite leaves, A3 with a height of 6.35 m and E1 with a height of 4.8 m.
The leaves were manufactured from glass/polyester composites with a weight optimised laminate skin, consisting primarily of bi axial and uni directional fabrics running across the leaves. Material properties and design loading conditions were defined in accordance with CEN/TS requirements.
The structural verification covered wind, snow and thermal loading, as well as buckling stability. The verification also included the connection between the composite leaves and the steel stalk (tube) anchored to the ground, ensuring the complete structural system was assessed.
Projects like this demonstrate how structural verification brings together materials, manufacturing and engineering analysis to ensure reliable composite structures.
