A mathematical model for the along-wind coefficient of tower crane based on the member load

The along-wind coefficient is the key parameter for wind load calculations in tower crane structure design. It is often calculated using overall parameter characteristics, which may lead to inaccurate results. In this study, six types of tower masts and four types of tower jibs with different overall structural characteristics and member characteristics are established. Through wind tunnel force tests and CFD numerical simulation, the along-wind coefficient of the overall structure and each member are obtained. Based on the characteristics of the slenderness ratio and spacing ratio of the members, a mathematical model for calculating the along-wind coefficient of the tower crane structure is proposed. The calculated results are in accordance with the wind tunnel test results. The maximum relative error is -6.25%, and the minimum relative error is 0.68%. To ensure accuracy, it is necessary to calculate the along-wind coefficient of the tower crane structure based on the load of each structure member rather than using overall parameter characteristics.