Wind Tunnel Study and ASCE 7

[jimrcasper]

A wind tunnel study was done for a high rise condominum complex in Philadelphia, PA. The wind tunnel study was done by a Candian firm. The Candian Building Code requires the wind tunnel study to include an addtional 2 psf for mechanical effects and 4psf/100m of building height for stack effect. ASCE 7 to my knowledge does not address theses additional loads. Are the additional loads applicable in the US? Can I reduce my loads?

 

[UcfSE]

Perhaps you should contact the firm that performed the testing and wrote the report. That way you'll know for sure what is included in the wind loads they have given you.

 

[JAE]

Yes - agree...per my own experience with (probably) the same Canadian firm, I would be surprised if they added this sort of empirical loading to their final recommendations as they most certainly knew where the project was located and what code provisions would or would not apply. I'd call them to verify that the 2psf and 4psf was not added to their reported/recommended wind pressures.