Turbulence Modeling for Gust Loading

Abstract

This paper presents the analytical models most in use at present for the description of the structure of turbulence in the surface atmospheric boundary layer. The study gives maximum prominence to the degree of uncertainty involved in these models, showing that a detailed forecast of the configuration of turbulence is very often fallacious. In the light of this consideration, two straightforward expressions of the power spectrum and of the coherence function are proposed that are particularly apt for the evaluation of the actions of wind on constructions such as buildings, towers, and chimneys. The use of each of these equations calls for the assignment of only one parameter, the best choice and the variability field of which are discussed.