Sectional model investigation at high Reynolds number for a super tall building

This paper presents the results of an experimental study of the influence of Reynolds number on the vortex-shedding excitation of a super tall building with a quasi-circular cross-section, uniform with height. Sectional model tests were carried out on a large model in a large wind tunnel at high wind speeds to reach Reynolds number in excess of 3 million based on the model diameter. Stationary model tests and free-to-respond model tests were carried out for various azimuth angles, in smooth and turbulent flow. The study revealed that for this building cross-section, the dynamic excitation due to vortex shedding was equally important at high Reynolds numbers when compared to experiments performed in the sub-critical Reynolds number regime.

► Rare study of the aerodynamics of a tall building at Reynolds (Re) numbers higher than 1 million. ► Wind tunnel tests at low and high Re numbers are compared in two different test facilities on a building. ► Vortex-shedding excitation is not necessary lower in the supercritical Re number regime. ► Openings can mitigate across-wind excitation but can also make the excitation stronger for some directions. ► Experiments on a large sectional model suspended on springs in a large wind tunnel are described.