8/8/2019 Why Do Wind Tunnel Testing

1/2

Why Do Wind Tunnel Testing?

Technical, Economic, Safety & Aesthetic Advantages

Todays architects and engineers challenge the traditional boundaries of their

craft, using high-tech materials and innovative structural design techniques

to create buildings and structures as true art expressions.

In addition, new structures are being designed for complex situations andsurroundings (i.e., near terrain or other structures). Yet, wind loads provided

in most codes and standards havent kept up. They are based on a range of

building shapes that were common over 40 years ago and many codes rec-

ognize that wind tunnel tests will lead to more reliable loading estimates

that result in savings, peace of mind and maximum creative freedom.

Progressive designers and engineers understand that significant savings in

cost of structure and cladding can be obtained by completing a wind tunnel

test in the early stage of the design.

When should a Wind TunnelTest be done?Early Design Stage

In the early planning stages, careful attention to the effects of wind, snow,

ventilation, vibration and related microclimate environmental issues on

buildings and structural are proven to save time, save money and reduce risk.

Tall Buildings / Unique Designs

Wind tunnel testing is advisable on buildings higher than 22 stories (10 sto-

ries in hurricane areas) or where the building or structure is an unusual

shape or construction methodology. Unusual terrain or surrounding struc-

tures in the area also make wind tunnel testing an important step to opti-

mize cost efficiencies, generate accurate results to enhance the safety of a

project, minimize assumptions and allow for maximum design freedom.

A wide range of wind engineeringwork is completed in RWDI Anemosnew state-of-the-art wind tunnel

Wind Tunnel testing delivers:

Accurate results to minimizeassumptions

Opportunity for architecturalexpression

Construction savings for the owner Improve earning potential with

maximum floor space

Assurance often recommendedby code

Increased litigation protection

Clients receive practical design knowl-edge, experience and service, not justtesting data

TYPICAL PROJECTS FOR RWDI ANEMOS WIND TUNNEL TESTING Skyscrapers and tall buildings Groups of buildings Long span roofs Tunnels

Industrial and institutional facilities Long span pedestrian or automotive bridges

Sporting stadiums Casinos Other tall or wind-sensitive structures

8/8/2019 Why Do Wind Tunnel Testing

2/2

A member of the RWDI Group of Companies

The Economic Advantages ofRWDI Anemos Wind Tunnel Testing

The economic advantages of Wind tunnel testing are best understood by reviewing the results

of a few case studies. Results will vary from project to project in the firms vast experience,

typically the returns on investment on wind tunnel testing can be significant relative to the

total project costs.

Who do I talk to if I need to get a test done?

Please contact one of RWDI Anemos consultants to discuss your particular needs.

Rely onRWDI Anemosfor... Consultations &

Design Reviews

Design Wind Load

Calculations

Wind Pressure Studies

High Frequency

Pressure Integrations

Studies

High Frequency Force-

Balance Studies

Structural Development

Assistance Wind-Induced

Vibration Studies

Expert Testimony

RWDI Anemos is awell-run companyfocused on continu-ous improvement,modern systemsand procedures,accountability,and client carethat exceedsexpectations.

CASE STUDY 1 Harbor Walk Development Destin, Florida

Estimated Construction Savings using Wind Tunnel Testing

Component Pre-Test Post-Test

Piles $352,100 $315,330

Pile Cap Concrete & Rebar $445,640 $335,280

Shear Wall Rebar $392,000 $341,600

Exterior Wall Studs $1,220,000 $775,000

Total $2,409,740 $1,767,210

Estimated Total Savings $645,530 or 27%

CASE STUDY 2 Seawind Condominium Gulf Shores, Alabama

Estimated Construction Savings using Wind Tunnel Testing

Component Pre-Test Post-Test

Piles $432,075 $313,410

Pile Cap Concrete & Rebar $334,880 $285,000

Shear Wall Rebar $239,400 $193,200

Exterior Wall Studs $411,128 $245,888

Total $1,408,483 $1,037,498

Estimated Total Savings $370,985 or 26%

RWDI Anemos LimitedUnit 4, Lawrence Industrial EstateLawrence WayDunstable, Bedfordshire LU6 1BDUnited Kingdom

Tel: 01582 470250Fax: 01582 470259

www.rwdi-anemos.com

Canadian ContactRowan Williams Davies & Irwin Inc.

650 Woodlawn Road West

Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1K 1B8

Tel: 00-1-519-823-1311

Fax: 00-1-519-823-1316

E-mail: info@rwdi.com

Web site: www.rwdi.com

Other RWDI OfficesCalgary 00-1-403-232-6771

Quebec 00-1-450-534-1007

Thunder Bay 00-1-807-622-2426Vancouver 00-1-604-730-5688

Windsor 00-1-519-728-2702

United Arab Emirates ContactsFrom United Kingdom

Abu Dhabi 00-971-2-672-4422

Dubai 00-971-4-332-2620

Saudi Arabia ContactFrom United Kingdom

Riyadh 00-966-1-464-9038

United States ContactRWDI LLC-California 00-1-213-489-4100

Web site: www.rwdi-llc.com