Consider some recommended methods and understandings when running wind simulations.
Prepare a Proper Model
- Best results are obtained on a model closed by panels, walls or claddings.
- Objects should have relatively the same size. If large surfaces and short linear elements are included in the simulation, the process may not converge due to the instability of wind flow.
- Simulations can be unreliable for open constructions such as frames with scattered walls.
Wind Simulation Is Not Derived from Any National Regulation
Independent of any standards, this module uses the Computational Fluid Dynamics simulation method which is a numerical simulation of a wind tunnel.
- To use this simulation in accordance with the requirements of any national design code, the pressure or velocity profile must be defined accordingly.
- The wind flow is steady. It does not simulate wind gust.
- Wind simulation does not reflect the wind vibration factor.
Wind Simulation Results Depend on a Wind Tunnel Size
The tunnel size in the simulation is set automatically according to the model dimensions:
- Windward and lateral sides. The gap between the model and tunnel box is about twice the model dimension in the transverse direction of the wind flow.
- Leeward side. The gap between is about four times the model dimension in the wind flow direction.
"Averaging Pressure on the Elements" Generates Uniform Loads on Objects
- Wind pressure generates as uniform loads on linear, planar and volumetric objects. The load is equivalent to an average value of a pressure calculated for each object.
- Loads with the same value (intensity) are grouped together to limit load data records in the program.
- Additional linear loads distributed on the edges of panels may generate when there are large pressure differences over the surface of a panel.
- This method of load generation is not suitable for wind simulations on shells with rounded surfaces or cylinders. A uniform load on panels does not reflect wind pressure change on a cylinder.
- Pressure maps apply onto the finite element mesh when deselected (its default setting).
- Each element obtains a load projected from the wind pressure map on the parent object.
- Loads generated on columns, beams, claddings (panels used for load distribution to members), and volumetric faces are still uniform with averaged values.