Architectural – Wind Loads

Wind loading on architectural components has historically relied on standards such as AS/NZS 1170. These standards are based on some broad assumptions and are difficult to apply accurately to architectural details. In some cases, the resulting design loads are extremely conservative and have little relevance to the component in question.

In this example a CFD analysis was completed for Insol to determine the wind loading on the architectural louvres. The calculated surface pressures were used to determine the differential pressures across the individual components and the resulting design loads.

The simulation also determines how the air flow interacts with the building and the influence of surrounding structures. The fluctuating loads caused by turbulence and vortex shedding can also be quantified allowing a robust fatigue analysis to be completed.