Análisis estructural de una torre de transmisión eléctrica autoportante en la parroquia Chongón, Guayaquil

Abstract

This study presents the structural analysis of a 138 kV self-supporting electrical transmission tower located in the parish of Chongón, Guayaquil, an area characterized by rapid urban growth, coastal environmental conditions, and increasing energy demand. The main objective of this research is to evaluate the structural behavior of the tower under the principal design actions, including permanent loads, wind loads, and seismic loads, considering the combined effects acting throughout its service life. The analysis is carried out through the application of the Finite Element Method, using three-dimensional models developed in specialized structural analysis software, which allows the determination of internal forces, displacements, vibration modes, and natural frequencies of the structure. The study is based on compliance with current design standards, including the Ecuadorian Construction Code (NEC-2015), ASCE/SEI 10-15 for lattice transmission structures, and AISC 360-16 for the design of steel members, thereby ensuring adequate levels of structural safety and operational reliability. The results obtained validate the stability and strength of the tower under seismic and wind conditions typical of the coastal region of Chongón, providing relevant technical criteria for the design, analysis, and planning of electrical transmission infrastructure, and contributing to the strengthening and sustainability of the regional power transmission system.