The influence of the dimension and configuration of geometric imperfections on the static strength of a typical façade scaffolding

Abstract

This paper describes the results of static non-linear calculations in reference to a typical facade scaffolding. The influence of the dimension and localisation of imperfections was analysed in the researches. It was found that the geometrical imperfections cause the increase of internal forces, and the highest increase occurs in the lowest elements. Higher normal stresses were also obtained when imperfections were modelled as regular horizontal displacements of decks than in the case, when they were arranged according to the form of buckling. The magnitudes of imperfections primarily influence the increase of the internal forces in the standards of frames and bracings. Internal forces in bracings are responsive mainly to imperfections parallel to the scaffolding, regardless of the type of load. In contrast, internal forces in standards are sensitive to imperfections in any direction, but mainly when the scaffolding is subjected to a vertical load.