The airflow around buildings can follow surprising patterns.
In many cases, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can provide an alternative to wind-tunnel testing, predicting when these adverse effects are likely to occur, and help develop the most appropriate solutions.
Issues include:
- Pedestrian Comfort
Tall buildings in particular can bring fast-moving air from high level down to ground level, resulting in pedestrian-comfort problems.
- Unsteady vortex shedding
Structures can be subjected to unsteady windflows, resulting in buffeting and, sometimes, structural failure.
- Wind turbine siting
An understanding of the wind microclimate, avoiding wind shadows and highly turbulent regions, is vital when considering the appropriate placement of urban wind turbines.
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