Design of tall buildings for dynamic wind loads

This paper discusses the basis and the effectiveness of the current and proposed Hong Kong wind codes to predict design wind lends based on comparisons with wind tunnel test results. An example of a Hong Kong building tested in the wind tunnel is used to illustrate the aerodynamic and structural dynamic behaviour of very tall buildings. Wind tunnel results of a number of Hong Kong buildings are summarized; they show that the 1983 and draft 1996 Hong Kong codes are generally conservative; however, for buildings taller than about 60 storeys sited in exposed locations, the current Hong Kong Code may not provide conservative design wind loads.