Wind-Induced Cladding and Structural Loads on Low-Wood Building

Abstract

A test building was constructed in Fredericton, New Brunswick and was used to collect pressure and force coefficient data. A 1:200 scale model was also fabricated and tested for a total of 15 angles of wind attack at the Building Aerodynamics Laboratory of Concordia University. Mean and peak local and area-averaged pressure coefficients were measured and finite-element analysis via a 3D linear model was performed in order to compute force coefficients for the selected wind directions. Pressure distribution comparisons between the full-scale and the wind tunnel results showed generally good agreement with small discrepancies attributed to the direction fluctuations of the full-scale records. Force coefficient comparison between the full-scale and the finite element analysis results showed good agreement for the mean values. However, significant overestimation of the fluctuating dynamic component of the foundation force is apparent when this is derived from the fluctuating roof pressures, in comparison to the directly measured values in the field. The experimental critical local pressures (suctions) tend to be higher (lower) in comparison to the ASCE 7-05 provisions, although area-averaged pressures and suctions seem to agree much better. The results can be used to provide realistic provisions for wind design of building structural systems and foundations.