The analysis was performed on the 70m Thickener Half-Span Bridge to verify its serviceability, stability, and structural integrity according to South African National Standard (SANS) 10160 & 10162 and Sound Engineering Practices (SEP) during combined operating conditions, wind, seismic, and snow loading to operate in China. To ensure that the required accuracy of the results from the analysis could be obtained, a 3D solid and beam finite element model was used.

All structural members and bolted connections comply with SANS 10162 under the worst load cases, with deflections well within serviceability limits and a buckling factor of 2.71 confirming structural stability. Although a peak stress of 1337 MPa was observed due to local bolt-hole stress singularities, all stresses and bearing checks met allowable limits. The 70 m Thickener Half-Span Bridge meet all code and engineering practice requirements.

• Evaluated structural integrity of Extension Cage under worst-case load combinations.

• Applied AISC 14th Edition and AISC 360-16 using Allowable Strength Design (ASD).

• Performed linear static Finite Element Analysis (FEA) with:

  • • 3D solid model for welded connection stress assessment (refined mesh in critical areas).

    • Beam element model for axial, shear, and flexural load evaluation of structural members.

• Included wind and seismic loads per ASCE 7-10.

• Applied sound engineering practice for non-code components (e.g., transition piece).

• Designed Extension Cage in five sub-assemblies for transport with bolted and welded site assembly.

• Performed lifting lug calculations per ASME BTH-1-2020; safe lug placement during lifting remains client’s responsibility.

The Finite Element Analysis shows all local primary stresses in welded areas are below SY/2 = 172.5 MPa, and other local stresses are within SY = 345.0 MPa. General and secondary stresses also meet the allowable limits. The structural member evaluation confirms compliance with AISC 360-16 for worst load cases, while M24 and M30 bolts are safe. M42 bolts fail due to bending but can be upgraded or resized to pass. Lifting lug calculations per ASME BTH-1-2020 assume 3 lugs carry the load, but proper lug placement is the client’s responsibility. Optional end-plate connections and welds meet the criteria. The Extension Cage met the minimum requirements according to AISC 360-16 and sound engineering practices.

• Evaluated structural integrity of Filter Access Structure under worst-case load combinations.

• Followed AS 1170.0 (2002) and AS 4100 (2020) for strength, stability, and serviceability requirements.

• Used 3D beam element model in Finite Element Analysis (Prokon) to assess axial, shear, and flexure loads per AS 4100.

• Calculated wind and seismic loads per:

  • • AS 1170.2 (2021) — Wind

    • AS 1170.4 (2004) — Seismic

    • NZ 1170.5 (2004) — Seismic response spectrum parameters.

• Evaluated bolted and welded connections using SANS 10162-1 (2018) due to Prokon limitations and absence of moment end-plate connection guidelines in AS 4100.

• Connection design methodology based on AISC Design of Structural Connections (4th Edition) and SANS 10162-1 (South African Green Book).

From the second-order strength evaluation, all members met AS 4100 (2020) criteria for the worst operating load cases specified by AS 1170.0 (2002). The dynamic evaluation, using the NZ 1170.5 (2004) earthquake response spectrum, confirms compliance with AS 4100 for seismic load cases. All bolted and welded connections meet SANS 10162-1 (2018) criteria. The buckling analysis yielded a minimum load factor of 17.3, well above the industry standard of 2, ensuring no buckling during normal operations. Displacement remains within AS 1170.0 (2002) serviceability limits, though the client must verify piping safety due to structure displacement. The Filter Access Structure met all required standards for the worst load cases.

• Analyzed XuXa Tank Platform Structure for structural integrity per SANS 10160 and SANS 10162.

• Considered combined operating conditions and site-specific wind loading.

• Developed 3D finite element model incorporating all relevant distributed and point loads for accurate stress assessment.

The XuXa DAT Platform Structure is structurally sound according to SANS 10160 and 10162 under combined operating and wind loading conditions. It is safe during operation and will not buckle, as detailed in this report. I conclude that the XuXa DAT Platform Structure can be safely operated within the design limits and specifications outlined in this document.

• Designed mirror space frame for small-scale CSP system to support 46 facets (5 kg each).

• Structure needed to be lightweight, supported only at the center, and capable of withstanding maximum wind loads.

• Aimed for simplicity in design and ease of manufacture using beam sections available in South Africa.

• Preferred bolted connections for logistics over welded ones.

• Conceptualized four different designs based on:

  • • Overall weight

    • Deflection under static conditions with facets attached

    • Design complexity

• Selected the best design for its optimal balance of these factors, assuming SS304 material.

In conclusion, after evaluating all concepts, I determined that concept 4 is the best choice for further investigation due to its lightweight design, minimal deflection under static conditions, and highest safety factor. Although it has the most components, its complexity does not compromise its effectiveness. Concepts 1 and 2 were not pursued due to their inability to withstand high wind loads. While Concept 3 offered acceptable deflection, weight, and strength, its complexity in manufacturing was a drawback. To validate the numerical results, I conducted an analytical investigation using both Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and frame analysis. The simulations assessed the webs with bolted connections and attached facets under stow conditions and a maximum wind speed of 140 km/h. By combining FEA with frame analysis, I minimized computational costs while ensuring accurate stress evaluations. The axial stress results indicated how the beams would behave under loading, with the most stressed members identified for further scrutiny. Overall, concept 4 stands out as the most reliable option for this project.