Connection of metal segments of a tower

Abstract

A method for connecting metal segments of a tower includes connecting at least two metal segments of the tower by the use of connecting elements. A paste is provided between the tower segments for filling at least a part of a gap between the segments. The paste is cured, wherein the cured paste absorbs at least a part of a load originated by the connected segments.

1 . A method for connecting metal segments of a tower, comprising the steps of:
 connecting at least two metal segments of the tower via a connecting element,   providing a paste between the tower segments for filling at least a part of a gap between the metal segments, and   curing the paste, wherein the cured paste absorbs at least a part of a load originated by the connected segment.   
     
     
         2 . The method according to  claim 1 , wherein the step of curing the paste is performed by applying heat. 
     
     
         3 . The method according to  claim 1 , wherein at least a part of the provided paste, applied to the gap, and is protected against ambient influence for at least a part of the curing period. 
     
     
         4 . The method according to  claim 1 , wherein metal segments of a wind turbine tower are connected. 
     
     
         5 . An arrangement for the connection of at least two tower segments of a metallic tower:
 a connecting device for connecting the at least two segments,   wherein at least a part of a gap between the segments is filled by a paste which is arranged between the tower segments, and   wherein the paste is cured, so as to absorb at least a part of a load originated by the connected segments.   
     
     
         6 . The arrangement according to  claim 5 , wherein the paste is prepared to cure at an ambient temperature between −20° C. and +30° C. 
     
     
         7 . The arrangement according to  claim 5 , wherein the paste is prepared to cure at a temperature above +30° C. 
     
     
         8 . The arrangement according to  claim 5 , wherein the paste is prepared to cure under the influence of ambient or atmospheric weather conditions like rain, snow or sunshine. 
     
     
         9 . The arrangement according to  claim 5 , wherein the paste is prepared for an operating temperature range between −40° C. and +60° C. 
     
     
         10 . The arrangement according to  claim 5 , wherein the paste shows a predetermined high flexural resistance and/or a predetermined low creep characteristic. 
     
     
         11 . The arrangement according to  claim 5 , wherein the paste is thixotropic before it is cured. 
     
     
         12 . The arrangement according to  claim 5 , wherein the paste comprises a polymer or a non-shrink grout. 
     
     
         13 . The arrangement according to  claim 12 , wherein the polymer is a polyurethane-hybrid or an epoxy resin or a polymer-bitumen. 
     
     
         14 . A wind turbine tower comprising:
 a plurality of metallic tower segments, and   an arrangement according to  claim 5  for connecting at least two of the tower segments.