Comparative analysis of blast response of cable truss and cable net façades

Abstract

This paper presents the development and application of comprehensive numerical modelling techniques to simulate the blast response of cable supported façades (CSFs) and compares the responses of cable truss and cable net façades which are two popular types. The results of the comparative analysis are used to evaluate the influence of the façade type on the key response parameters and hence their effective performance under blast loads. Modelling approaches, material models and constraint types used are presented along with the validation of the procedure. Results from numerical models created in LS DYNA are compared with existing numerical and experimental results from literature to validate the modelling techniques. Behaviour of cable net and cable truss façades under a credible blast event are then compared by analysing the effects of cable and panel configurations. The findings of the comparative analysis, show that cable truss façades (in general) have reduced deflections and higher energy absorption capacities, but with larger cable forces. This information can be used in the design of either façade type to obtain the desired blast response. The numerical modelling techniques developed in this paper deliver important information on the blast response and failure assessment of cable supported façades and the comparative analysis will provide guidance in future research and investigation to enable safer designs.