By Anne Ellis, P.E.
A new research grant will spur systematic study using modern wind tunnel test methods and inform code-based design. The Structural Engineering Institute (SEI) of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is pursuing the update and simplification of the 2016 edition of ASCE 7 Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures approach to wind design. While tweaks have been made over the years, a systematic study using modern wind tunnel test methods for code-based design has not been conducted in over 40 years. Meanwhile, our knowledge of both the role of turbulence on aerodynamic loading and the turbulence levels in the atmospheric boundary layer have evolved considerably. This research will provide test data to the ASCE 7-22 Wind Loads Sub-Committee for review and possible update of chapter 27 MWFRS wind load coefficients.
The Charles Pankow Foundation has awarded SEI Research Grant #04-19 for Determination of Pressure Coefficients for High-Rise Buildings of Different Aspect Ratios, Principal Investigator Don Scott, P.E., S.E., F.SEI, F.ASCE. Joining the Foundation in support of this research are CPP Wind Engineering & Air Quality Consultants; Degenkolb Engineers; Gilsanz Murray Steficek LLP; Hatfield Group; KPFF; LERA Consulting Structural Engineers; Magnusson Klemencic Associates Foundation; Nabih Youssef Associates Structural Engineers; National Council of Structural Engineers Associations; Odeh Engineers; PCS Structural Solutions; Silman; Skidmore, Owings & Merrill; Structural Focus; Walter P Moore and Associates; Peter A. Irwin, Ph.D., P.Eng.; and Glenn and Judy Bell. The research will be guided by the ASCE 7-22 Wind Loads Sub-Committee.
The Charles Pankow Foundation encourages industry collaboration and original research that provides practical and immediate benefits to design and construction teams. For more information, visit www.pankowfoundation.org
