CFD analysis of the impact of corner adjustments in tall square buildings for wind load mitigation

Abstract Tall buildings face significant challenges due to wind loads. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately assess wind loads in the design of these structures. One effective strategy for tackling this issue is through aerodynamic modifications. This research paper explores the effectiveness of aerodynamic modifications in mitigating wind loads on tall square-shaped buildings through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations using ANSYS Fluent software. Four corner modification strategies—chamfering, rounding, recessing, and double recessing—are applied to a square model with corner reductions of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%. Analysis of force and pressure coefficients for along-wind load, accompanied by the lift coefficient for across-wind load, reveals crucial insights. Chamfering proves optimal at a 5% corner reduction, while rounded and recessed corners excel at a 10% reduction. At a 15% reduction, rounded and chamfered corners demonstrate the highest effectiveness. Notably, rounded corners exhibit exceptional efficacy at a 20% reduction. These findings highlight the potential of corner adjustments as efficient strategies for substantial wind load mitigation on square-plan tall buildings. This research provides essential guidance for architects and engineers in optimizing the design of such structures, contributing to improved resilience against wind-induced forces.