Aerodynamics of Low-Rise Buildings: Large-Scale (Open Jet) Testing and CFD Simulation

Abstract

This research aims to improve the resiliency of low-rise buildings during powerful windstorms by augmenting the performance of buildings’ envelopes. To improve resiliency, the accuracy of the estimated aerodynamic loads of structures is fundamental. In this pursuit, this research initiative advances the estimation of aerodynamic loads on low-rise buildings using large-scale open-jet testing and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. On the experimental side, the lack of large eddies and testing at low Reynolds numbers are two notable challenges in the commonly endorsed small-scale aerodynamic testing. On the CFD simulations’ side, considerable computational expense, inability to capture the realities of the flow-separated zone and under-resolved or unresolved eddies in the flow constitute the challenges even with the most widely accepted turbulence models. Aerodynamic models of two benchmark low-rise buildings are established for experiments and CFD simulations (the Silsoe cube and the Texas Tech University (TTU) flat-roof building). The study demonstrates that the open jet allows large-scale testing at higher Reynolds numbers. Also, exceptional turbulence contents of large eddies are realized in the open-jet testing laboratory. As such, improved mean and peak aerodynamic loads are estimated on a low-rise building.