Use of CFD Models to Develop Wind Loads

[bmj01]

Hello All,

I am currently involved in the developement of a new system for roof-top solar panel installation and the system's resistance to wind loads. The plan is to use either wind tunnel testing, numerical modeling (CFD models), or a combination of the two to develop design wind pressures (loads) for the system.

My question is whether anyone has come across any instances where CFD modeling was or was not found to be an acceptable substitute for ASCE7 and building-code prescribed physical wind tunnel tests.

Thanks.

 

[cvanoverbeke]

I suggest you contact an engineering company in Guelph, Ontario Canada. They are experts at wind loads. The website is

http://www.rwdi.com

Cvanoverbeke