Conducting durability analyses of steel structures employed in solar power plants

In this thesis study, the requirements for the steel support structure of Solar Power Systems (SPV) intended to meet the energy needs of base stations were determined, and design alternatives were developed accordingly. Among these alternatives, the most suitable design was selected by considering parameters such as functionality, manufacturability, and structural strength. The selected design was developed as a modular system that can be integrated into the tower, using S355 grade steel profiles. The loads acting on the structure were calculated in accordance with the relevant standards. The structural behavior under these loads was analyzed using both SAP2000 and ANSYS software. The procedures and methods followed when using SAP2000 and ANSYS for the steel structure analysis were presented in detail. The results obtained from SAP2000 and ANSYS were also presented in a comparative manner. It was observed that the obtained results remained within the allowable deflection limits.