Improving aerodynamic performance of tall buildings using façade openings at service floors. Issue 225 (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Marsland, Lucy; Nguyen, Khanh; Zhang, Yichi; Huang, Yuemin; Abu-Zidan, Yousef; Gunawardena, Tharaka; Mendis, Priyan
• Is Part Of: Journal of wind engineering and industrial aerodynamics. Issue 225(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: Tall building -- Wind loads -- Vortex shedding -- Aerodynamic modification -- Minor modification -- Façade openings -- Occupant comfort -- CFD simulation -- OpenFOAM; Wind-pressure -- Periodicals; Buildings -- Aerodynamics -- Periodicals; Pression du vent -- Périodiques; Constructions -- Aérodynamique -- Périodiques; Buildings -- Aerodynamics; Wind-pressure; Periodicals
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jweia.2022.104997
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-6105

Abstract

Abstract: Modern tall buildings demand innovative solutions for combatting excessive wind-induced vibrations and achieving occupant comfort criteria. The integration of building openings can help reduce wind-induced vibrations, but traditional implementation of this strategy places considerable constraints on architectural and structural design. This paper proposes the treatment of building openings as a minor modification where façade elements at service floors are removed while the underlying structure remains unchanged. A systematic investigation of 18 façade opening configurations is performed to assess the impact opening location and quantity on peak floor accelerations at wind speeds corresponding to comfort and structural design thresholds. A single wind azimuth perpendicular to the building surface is considered. Results indicate that both location and quantity of façade openings affect performance, with a larger number of openings achieving better performance. A single opening was most effective when located at 70% of building height, and compliance with ISO10137 comfort limits was achieved with three or more openings. Results were sensitive to geometric details at service floors, particularly at resonant wind speeds. The study provides valuable insight into the strategic placement of façade openings at services floors to reduce wind response in tall buildings while minimising impact on architectural and commercial considerations. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Wind mitigation strategy for tall buildings using minor aerodynamic openings. Façade opening at service floors to reduce impact on building design. Parametric analysis of 18 opening configurations using CFD (LES) model in OpenFOAM. Façade openings reduce crosswind dynamic response by disrupting vortex shedding. ISO10137 comfort limits for peak floor acceleration achieved with multiple openings.