Wind Load Calculation Eurocode

Eurocode EN 1991-1-4 Equations:

\[ q_p = [1 + 7 \times I_v(z)] \times 0.5 \times \rho \times v_m(z)^2 \] \[ w = q_p \times c_{pe} - q_p \times c_{pi} \]

Turbulence Intensity (I_v):

dimensionless

Air Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Mean Wind Velocity (v_m):

m/s

External Pressure Coefficient (c_pe):

dimensionless

Internal Pressure Coefficient (c_pi):

dimensionless

Peak Velocity Pressure (q_p):

Wind Load (w):

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1. What is the Wind Load Calculation?

The wind load calculation according to Eurocode EN 1991-1-4 determines the pressure exerted by wind on structures. It's essential for structural design to ensure buildings can withstand wind forces.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Eurocode equations:

\[ q_p = [1 + 7 \times I_v(z)] \times 0.5 \times \rho \times v_m(z)^2 \] \[ w = q_p \times c_{pe} - q_p \times c_{pi} \]

Where:

\( q_p \) — Peak velocity pressure (kN/m²)
\( I_v(z) \) — Turbulence intensity at height z (dimensionless)
\( \rho \) — Air density (kg/m³, typically 1.25)
\( v_m(z) \) — Mean wind velocity at height z (m/s)
\( c_{pe} \) — External pressure coefficient
\( c_{pi} \) — Internal pressure coefficient
\( w \) — Net wind load (kN/m²)

Explanation: The first equation calculates the peak velocity pressure, which is then used to determine the net wind load considering both external and internal pressures.

3. Importance of Wind Load Calculation

Details: Accurate wind load calculation is crucial for structural safety, preventing damage or collapse during high winds, and ensuring compliance with building codes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters. Default air density is set to 1.25 kg/m³ (standard value). Turbulence intensity typically ranges from 0.1 to 0.3.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is typical turbulence intensity?
A: For open terrain, ~0.15-0.20; for urban areas, ~0.25-0.30. Exact values depend on terrain category and height.

Q2: How to determine pressure coefficients?
A: c_pe and c_pi depend on building shape, orientation, and openings. Refer to Eurocode EN 1991-1-4 tables.

Q3: What's the standard air density?
A: 1.25 kg/m³ at 15°C and sea level, but adjust for altitude/temperature if needed.

Q4: When is internal pressure significant?
A: When buildings have large openings on windward or leeward sides, creating pressure differentials.

Q5: How does height affect wind velocity?
A: Wind speed increases with height according to a logarithmic or power law profile.