The Investigation
S-N Fatigue design methods can lead to problems
Hyland Consulting Engineering developed fatigue life design software for the response of lighting poles to New Zealand wind conditions. Current code based S-N methods are not well suited for the design of structures subjected to variable loadings due to wind. S-N methods can result in over designed or unreliable structures.
Our development programme therefore involved review of international literature, development of crack growth and loadings analytical models, strain gauge monitoring of a lighting pole in varying wind conditions, and fatigue assembly proof testing at the University of Auckland.