Assessing Wind Load Effects on High-Rise Building Stability Through Computational Simulations

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of wind loads on the structural stability of tall buildings through advanced
computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and finite element analysis (FEA). Wind-induced vibrations and
structural responses represent critical challenges in the design and construction of skyscrapers, especially as
buildings continue to grow taller and more slender. This research examines wind load patterns across different
building geometries, including rectangular, tapered, and twisted forms, under various wind conditions.
Computational simulations were validated against wind tunnel tests for three representative building models with
heights ranging from 250 to 450 meters. Results demonstrate that helical and tapered designs can reduce vortex
shedding effects by 18-27% compared to conventional rectangular forms. Implementation of tuned mass dampers
was found to decrease peak lateral displacements by an average of 34%, with computational models predicting
responses within 7% of physical test data. Findings reveal that the integration of aerodynamic design principles
with advanced damping systems can significantly enhance structural stability while potentially reducing
construction material requirements by 8-12%. This research offers valuable insights for optimizing tall building
designs to improve safety, occupant comfort, and economic efficiency in regions prone to high wind conditions