Wind

Wind Engineering

The purpose of the wind engineering research programme is an overall collection of knowledge regarding wind velocity and wind forces and their relation to other environmental factors. The objective is to establish a realistic basis for the assessment of wind in architectural and structural building design, where full consideration is taken of the Icelandic environment. The programme can be divided into the following parts:

Engineering representation of wind. The purpose is the development of stochastic models that describe the wind structure in space and time with an emphasis on conditions in Iceland.

Wind measurements. Collection of information on wind velocity, as required in civil and environmental engineering. The measurements have been analysed numerically. These wind measurements have been carried out at the following locations: the town of Kopavogur; the town of Mosfellsbaer; Stigahlid in northwest Iceland; Dysnes in northern Iceland; Keilisnes in south-west Iceland; and in Reykjavik.

Analysis of measured data. Methods for numerical analysis of wind data are being developed.

Wind and municipal planning. The purpose is to collect information regarding the interaction of wind and structures. Shelter effects are considered, as well as ways to reduce the negative effects of wind in populated areas. The effects of wind on snow accumulation and dissipation of pollution are also considered.

Wind loading. The purpose is to develop models which describe wind loading and its relation to wind velocity, surrounding structures and structural properties.

Wind response of structures. The purpose is to develop models that predict the behaviour of structures in wind conditions. Numerical methods for load distribution are also considered. Specific consideration is given to power lines.

Wind-induced vibration of buildings. Measurements and analysis of wind-induced vibration of buildings. The purpose is to assess the structural risk due to wind-induced vibrations and to estimate the discomfort of building inhabitants with regard to expected frequency and severity of such occurrences.

Wind-induced vibration of high chimneys. Analysis of wind-induced vibration of chimneys and ways of reducing such vibration. Chimneys with circular cross sections have been considered.

Wind vibration of suspension bridges. Analysis of wind-induced vibration in suspension bridges and development of numerical methods for analysing such vibrations. This includes large projects abroad.

Design methods. The purpose is the development of probabilistic methods for the design of structures, where wind effects are of primary significance. Emphasis is on the use of computers in design and analysis (CAD/CAE). Risk analysis is also considered.

Wind design standards. The purpose is the collection of information about wind and its effect on structures, populated areas etc.