A numerical approach for the evaluation of wind-induced effects on inclined, slender structural elements

The gust-excited response of structures is usually evaluated by an equivalent static load defined as the product between the wind-induced mean static force and a gust factor calibrated on maximum displacements. Advanced formulations provide the 3-D response using gust factors calibrated on the generic effect investigated, rather than refer only to displacement, allowing a more accurate description of the actual internal forces. Established procedures are available, by now, concerning vertical cantilever slender structures. Starting from this framework, the present paper generalises the gust factor technique supplying a numerical solution for the estimate of shear forces and bending moments of a variegated typology of structural slender elements, generically inclined, elevated above the ground and variously constrained. Accounting for the cross-contributions of different turbulence terms and the wake excitation (in absence of lock-in conditions), the procedure is particularly suitable for dealing with a wide class of structural elements belonging to cranes for industrial lifting and harbour usage.