Wind Engineering at Mopa International Airport
Windtech Consultants, renowned for its expertise in wind engineering solutions, played a pivotal role in the development of the Mopa International Airport in Goa, India. Engaged by Megawide Construction DMCC, Windtech conducted detailed wind tunnel studies to ensure the structural integrity, facade resilience, and occupant comfort for both the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) and the Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower.
Passenger Terminal Building (PTB):
Windtech’s meticulous facade cladding pressure study involved extensive wind tunnel testing at their boundary layer facility, utilising a 1:400 scale model. The analysis featured a comprehensive array of 630 pressure sensors strategically positioned across the building’s facade. This allowed precise monitoring of wind-induced pressures, crucial for the facade design and integrity.
In addition, Windtech analysed wind-induced structural loads on the PTB’s roof structure, segmenting the roof into 70 panels, each closely monitored by sensors. The comprehensive evaluation yielded critical load cases guiding the structural engineering team in ensuring robust support framing.
Wind Tunnel Model (right) of Passenger Terminal Building (PTB).
Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower:
Windtech undertook a dual-focus approach for the ATC Tower, comprising both facade pressure analysis and structural load/motion studies. Using a 1:150 scale model, the team installed 384 sensors on the facade, supplemented by 273 differential pressure pairings on elements exposed on both sides to wind.
Windtech’s structural study assessed wind-induced base moments, shear distributions, serviceability deflections, and occupant comfort through acceleration measurements. Results confirmed that the ATC tower’s peak tip deflections and occupant comfort were well within recommended limits, significantly enhancing the confidence in the tower’s structural design and operational viability.
Wind Tunnel Model (right) of Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower.
Windtech’s comprehensive approach, leveraging precision modelling and cutting-edge techniques, delivered critical insights for facade and structural designs. Our detailed reports and clear load scenarios enabled informed, efficient design decisions, enhancing both safety and functionality. The successful application of our wind engineering expertise ensures that Mopa International Airport stands resilient against the harshest wind conditions, reflecting the meticulous planning and collaboration that went into this significant infrastructure project.
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