Wind Analysis of High-Rise Building Resting on Sloping (Hilly) Grounds of Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

The importance of wind induced vibration is a key factor in the analysis, design and construction of high-rise building structures. Owing to scarce land resources, urbanization and ever-growing demand for accommodation is leading developers into sloping (hilly) grounds which in turn requires researches on the structural equilibrium of these structures. This study draws to mind the requirements of a fast-growing city of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja considering her vast undulating planes and plateaus, high altitudes and windspeeds (50 m/s). Here therein, lies a comparative study of different types of building configurations and responses for sloping grounds using approaches form seismic analyses as a background to achieving set objectives. The study therefore, attempts the application of a commonly used method (Static Wind Analysis, SWA) for analysis of wind loads on structures and also understudying the outcomes of applying the same loads using dynamic method (Response Spectrum Analysis, RSA). STAAD Pro V8i software was used to synthesize both analyses using the ASCE 705 code (wind speed-up over Hills) on 40 models for each analysis method for a 3x5 planar building configurations (G+6, G+8, G+12 and G+18) on grounds (0°, 6°, 14°, 18°, and 27°). The findings confirmed the complexities of sloping ground buildings with a greater chance of vibration and sway for SWA than in RSA. It was concluded, that the Stepback-setback (STPB-SETB) frames were better configured to combat wind loads on sloping grounds for both analyses. Recommendations includes, prioritizing the construction industry, collaboration with international bodies on High-rise development, developing a data base and wind testing facilities.