Abstract: A cooling tower is disclosed that is resistant to lateral displacement while minimizing the number and type of parts, and while limiting the amount of horizontal bracing. The cooling tower has a fiber reinforced material skeletal frame. Moment-transferring connections are provided in the connections between the elements of the skeletal frame and between the skeletal frame and the base on which it sits. Further cost savings may be realized by using separable parts made of wood instead of fiber reinforced material. The moment-transferring connections between the frame members are made by bonding the joined elements to a mounting plate. The moment-transferring connections between the frame and the base are made by bonding the frame members and the base to footings. A method of constructing such a cooling tower is also disclosed. Diagonal bracing may be provided at preselected joints.

Abstract: A cooling tower is disclosed that is resistant to lateral displacement while minimizing the number and type of parts, and while limiting the amount of horizontal bracing. The cooling tower has a fiber reinforced material skeletal frame. Moment-transferring connections are provided in the connections between the elements of the skeletal frame. The moment-transferring connections between the frame members are made by bonding the joined elements to a mounting plate. The mounting plate may be held in place by mechanical fasteners that bear construction loads until the bonding material cures. The mounting plate, columns, beam and mechanical fasteners define construction joints that are capable of bearing construction loads until the bonding material cures. The mounting plate, columns, beam and cured bonding material define post-construction joints that are capable of transferring moments from the beam to the columns and are capable of bearing post-construction loads on the joints.

Abstract: The present invention provides a structural assembly that includes at least four vertically extending columns which form corners of the structural assembly. Wall panels extend between adjacent columns, with at least two wall panels vertically stacked and connected to each other, to form a structural wall assembly between adjacent columns. The ends of each of the wall panels are attached to flanges that extend from each of the columns. A structural column is provided in the center of the structure and braces extend from each of the corner columns to the riser. Beams also extend from the central riser outwardly to certain of the wall panels, usually connecting to the wall panels at a location equidistant between the columns. A roof structure is provided, the edges of which are received in spaces in certain of the top wall panels. In a cooling tower application of the present invention, a fan assembly is supported on the top of the central column water inlet riser and includes a fan shroud supported by the roof.