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Analysis Methods

Linear Static Analysis​

Default method for all towers.

First-order elastic analysis solving K × u = F for nodal displacements u:

  • Assumes small deformations
  • Stiffness matrix K is constant (not updated for deformed geometry)
  • Superposition of load cases is valid
  • Fast and accurate for most tower configurations

P-Delta Analysis (Configurable — linear analysis default)​

Second-order analysis accounting for gravity loads on the deformed shape.

  • Iteratively re-applies gravity loads on the deformed geometry
  • Uses geometric stiffness matrices to capture compression softening
  • Implements Newton-Raphson iteration until convergence
  • Captures amplification effects in slender towers

When P-Delta matters:

  • Tall, slender towers (height/base width ratio > 15)
  • Heavily loaded towers with high axial compression in legs
  • When standard linear analysis shows unity check ratios between 0.8–1.0 (borderline cases)
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For most towers under 60m, linear static analysis produces accurate and slightly conservative results. P-Delta effects become significant primarily for very tall or slender structures.