Experimental wind tunnel testing of rectangular buildings under wind loads

Rapid urbanization and vertical growth have made wind forces a crucial design factor for tall, flexible buildings. However, current design codes often lack comprehensive guidelines for extreme wind events, particularly thunderstorms and downbursts, which exhibit complex wind profiles that differ significantly from typical Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) conditions. This study addresses these gaps by developing an aerodynamic database with experimental data on building responses to both ABL and downburst loads, aiming to enhance structural resilience against extreme wind events. Wind tunnel tests were conducted on nine building models with varying geometries and aspect ratios at the Toronto Metropolitan University Wind Tunnel, under a range of wind directions and terrain configurations to capture diverse wind-loading scenarios. Beyond establishing a comprehensive aerodynamic database, this research places particular emphasis on evaluating the structural response of buildings subjected to both ABL and downburst wind loads. The analysis systematically examines wind-induced forces, moments, and dynamic responses especially under downburst conditions. By integrating experimental data with advanced analysis, the study provides a robust framework for understanding and predicting building performance under extreme wind scenarios. By providing a more accurate and efficient tool for wind design in mid- and high-rise structures, this research reduces the dependency on extensive wind tunnel testing. The aerodynamic database developed here offers valuable insights for innovative engineering applications, facilitating safer and more adaptable urban building designs capable of withstanding both ABL and thunderstorm-induced wind loads.