3rd Croatian Conference on Earthquake Engineering 3CroCEE

In the initial stages of construction design, precisely defining the loads that a structure must support is of utmost importance. While structures are generally designed to handle live loads effectively, they must also be capable of accommodating other types of loads. The dominant types of loads that a construction must withstand can differ based on the materials used and the type of construction.
For instance, steel structures, which have a lower self-weight, are particularly susceptible to horizontal wind loads. On the other hand, reinforced concrete (RC) constructions, due to their higher self-weight, are more affected by horizontal seismic forces. Despite these differences, wind loads are a significant factor for high-rise buildings regardless of whether they are made of steel or reinforced concrete.
This paper explores the impact of wind loads on tall structures, with a particular focus on the role of shape coefficients. It provides a comparison between values obtained through experimental measurements and those specified in regulatory standards. Additionally, the paper includes a practical analysis of various types of constructions to illustrate how wind loads affect different designs.
By examining these aspects, the paper aims to shed light on the effectiveness of current regulations and practices related to wind load calculations. It will discuss any discrepancies between experimental data and theoretical predictions and offer insights into the implications for engineering practice. This analysis is intended to enhance the understanding of wind load effects on high-rise buildings and inform future design approaches.

Keywords: wind, construction, shape coefficients, dampening, steel structures