Steel construction techniques

[RobertArthur]

For novice structural engineers, the Eiffel Tower is also available in a wooden version.

[ajm]

You can't beat triangulation

[widge]

Near Chedder there is (or was) an old quarry where they contructed electricity pilons, covered them in strain guages then instead of the electricity cables, they had steel cables connected to winches, and they would test them to distruction, I never saw it in person, but saw an interesting program about it once.
[/quote]

[RobertArthur]

My photo shows a so-called 'Donau' (Danube) type high-voltage pylon. This is a very commonly used type in Germany and elsewhere in Central Europe. In terms of appearance, it is actually quite balanced, not too large and in slightly grey weather they are hardly noticeable in the landscape. The modern type in the low countries behind dunes and dikes is/was the 'Wintrack' pylon, more visible in the landscape. And quite expensive, needs enormous amounts of concrete as foundation compared to piles at all four corners, quite far apart, so there is a lot of support. Last but not least, money. Not easy to produce, maintenance not easy. Lessons learned, back to the rivers of Central Europe: from now on the 'Moldau' high-voltage pylon will carry 380 kV to the hungry consumers. Electrons, a scarce commodity nowadays.

In France you will encounter a variation on the Donau type called 'Beaubourg'. The top looks somewhat like a nun's cap.