Unlock Mind-Blowing Innovations in the Telecommunications World – Ep 148

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In this episode, I talk with Sudarshan Kasera, P.E., PMP, senior project engineer at Crown Castle, about the fast-changing telecommunications industry, exploring how 5G reshapes structural requirements, the complexities of tower modifications, and the pivotal role engineers play in driving innovation.

***The video version of this episode can be viewedย here.***

Engineering Quotes:

Telecommunications

Telecommunications

Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Sudarshan:

  • What types of telecommunication towers do you work with, and what structural challenges do they present?
  • How have technological advancements influenced your design and analysis approach, especially with stricter structural requirements?
  • What are the key industry codes and standards for designing telecommunication towers?
  • What structural analysis tools do you use for telecommunication towers, and how have they evolved?
  • Can you describe your process for designing or retrofitting a telecommunication tower, including an example project?
  • What is it like to collaborate with different disciplines in the construction of a telecom tower?
  • What final piece of advice would you give to structural engineers looking to enter or excel in the telecommunications industry?

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Mind-Blowing Innovations in the Telecommunications World:

  • Various telecommunication towers, including monopoles, cell supporting towers, guide towers, and concealed structures such as monopine and flagpole towers, present unique challenges. These challenges include ensuring stability under high wind loads and seismic conditions, managing the tension in guy wires, and dealing with the unique loading profiles of concealed towers.
  • The shift to 4G and 5G technologies increases the size and weight of equipment on towers, raising structural demands and the complexity of design and analysis. This advancement leads to a focus on retrofitting existing structures and integrating innovative analysis techniques such as finite element modeling and nonlinear analysis.
  • The key industry code, TIA222, set by the Telecommunications Industry Association, covers wind, seismic, and ice loading, as well as structural capacity and foundation design. Additionally, telecommunication towers must comply with the International Building Code and other relevant local and state codes.
  • Tools like TNX Tower, known for user-friendly tower analysis and design, along with RISA 3D and StaadPro for modeling complex or heavily reinforced parts of towers, are utilized. These tools, along with Mathcad and Excel for calculations, have evolved to better handle the complexities of modern telecom tower designs.
  • The design process involves a detailed analysis of existing structures to understand capacity and identify overstressed components. For example, a project near the ocean might require assessing corrosion and rust on a tower, then reinforcing or replacing affected parts to ensure stability and compliance with current codes, illustrating the iterative nature of this process.
  • Collaboration in telecom tower projects typically involves coordination with electrical and mechanical engineers for loading data and with general contractors for construction aspects. This ensures all design aspects are integrated and feasible for construction, addressing any material or constructability issues as they arise.
  • Engineers are encouraged to build a strong foundation in structural engineering fundamentals, familiarize themselves with specific industry codes like TIA222, embrace new technologies, and continuously adapt to new challenges. Innovation, problem-solving, and ongoing learning are crucial for navigating the unique challenges of the telecommunications sector.

More Details in This Episodeโ€ฆ

About Sudarshan Kasera, P.E., PMP

Crown CastleSudarshan Kasera is a licensed professional engineer (P.E.) with over 10 years of expertise in structural analysis, design, and project management. Currently serving as a senior project engineer at Crown Castle, he specializes in the structural analysis and modification of telecommunication towers, ensuring safety, resilience, and compliance across diverse engineering challenges.

Sudarshan’s professional journey includes designing reinforced concrete and steel structures for power plants, analyzing water pump structures, and creating innovative solutions to extend the lifespan of infrastructure. His proficiency spans materials like steel, reinforced concrete, and wood, supported by advanced knowledge of industry-standard software such as RISA, STAAD-Pro, and AutoCAD.

Recognized for his leadership and mentorship skills, Sudarshan thrives in both independent and team settings, delivering results that consistently exceed expectations. His dedication to innovation, efficiency, and collaboration has made him a trusted consultant for cross-functional initiatives and a leader in structural engineering best practices.

Sudarshan holds a masterโ€™s degree in structural engineering from the University of Cincinnati and a bachelorโ€™s degree in civil engineering from Nagpur University. With a passion for solving complex engineering problems, he remains committed to advancing the field through sustainable and innovative design.

About the Hosts

Mathew Picardal, P.E., SE

The Structural Engineering ChannelMathew is a licensed engineer, practicing on structural projects in California,ย with an undergraduate degree from Cal Poly Pomona and an M.S. in Structural Engineering from UC San Diego. He has designed and managed various types of building structures, including residential wood apartment buildings, commercial steel buildings, and concrete parking structures and towers. He also hosts the new YouTube channel โ€œStructural Engineering Life,โ€ through which he promotes the structural engineering profession to engineering students who are not familiar with the industry perspective.

Sources/References:

Crown Castle
TIA222
International Building Code (IBC)
AISC
ASCE
TNX Tower
Risa 3D
Mathcad
Connect with Sudarshan Kasera, P.E., PMP, on LinkedIn

Please leave your comments or questions in the section below on mind-blowing innovations in the telecommunications world.

To your success,

Mathew Picardal, P.E., SE
Co-host of The Structural Engineering Podcast

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