Wind Comfort Study Through Computational Fluid Dynamics

Windtech Consultants conducted an early-stage pedestrian wind comfort study for a proposed 642-foot-high building in Miami. The proposed development consisted of 12 floors of podium and a tower above. The project utilised computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to investigate wind conditions at ground level and on raised terraces. This case study highlights the engineering methods implemented, the challenges faced during the process, and the solutions provided by Windtech Consultants.

Wind Engineering Methods Implemented

Windtech Consultants employed advanced CFD techniques to perform a comprehensive wind study for the proposed building. A cylindrical computational domain with a height of 590ft and a radius of 1395ft was generated to account for wind effects such as downwash and side-streaming. The highly detailed virtual model identified hotspots or areas of concern early. This early detection provided valuable insights into the wind load on pedestrian areas and raised terraces.

Challenges Faced During the Process

Given the potential impact of tall towers on pedestrian wind comfort, the primary challenge was accurately predicting the wind conditions at ground level and on the raised terraces. This required a thorough understanding of the complex wind flow patterns and the ability to identify areas of concern early to avoid costly redesigns later in the project.

Fig. 1 – Visualization of velocity field approaching the subject development

Fig. 2 – Breeze predictions for outdoor, private amenity areas of the subject development

Solution

Using the CFD wind study results, Windtech Consultants provided high-resolution images that offered snapshots of the wind conditions at specific amenity areas, such as pool areas on the podium and raised terrace areas. Windtech collaborated with the design team to optimise the building façade design. We recommended strategically placing windbreaks, such as architectural elements or landscape features, to create buffer zones and mitigate potential wind turbulence. Windtech Consultants also proposed integrating pedestrian-friendly design elements, such as covered walkways and sheltered seating areas, to provide additional protection from wind gusts and enhance the overall pedestrian experience.

These insights allowed the project team to incorporate mitigation measures into the design concept, resulting in elegant solutions that addressed the wind load on pedestrian areas and ensured a comfortable environment for building occupants.

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