Aerodynamic characteristics and structural effects of suspending scaffolds for super high-rise building construction

This study physically and numerically investigated the wind-induced loads and structural effects of suspending scaffolds for an integral steel platform system. Specifically, the wind load shape coefficients for the suspending scaffolds were determined based on wind tunnel tests , and the influences of protective net blocking ratios (denoted as α f ) and the interference effects of the adjacent core tube with varying blocking ratios (denoted as α t ) on the wind loads were systematically investigated. Subsequently, the wind-induced responses of the suspending scaffolds were analyzed based on transient dynamic analysis methods. The results indicate that the existing Code provisions regarding wind loads on suspending scaffolds tend to be conservative. The wind load shape coefficient of the suspending scaffolds is directly proportional to α f and inversely proportional to α t . Accordingly, the maximum wind load shape coefficient (0.933) occurs at the α t = 0.5 and α f = 0.7, while the minimum one (0.263) is observed at the α t = 0.8 and α f = 0.4. Additionally, an empirical model for the critical wind load shape coefficient envelope of the suspending scaffolds, accounting for the impacts of the α f , α t , and flow field characteristics (i.e., uniform and turbulent flow fields), was developed to guide the relevant structural wind-resistant design. Notably, the maximum wind-induced responses of the suspending scaffolds occur at the middle of the bottom edge on the windward side, emphasizing the need for targeted reinforcement measures in this area to ensure structural safety. • Wind load characteristics and structural effects of the suspending scaffolds were physically and numerically investigated. • The impact of structural blocking ratios and interference effects of the adjacent core tube were comprehensively studied. • Blocking ratio of unfavorable condition of suspending scaffolds under wind load: protective net 0.7, concrete core tube 0.5. • The regulations on the wind load of the suspending scaffolds in existing Codes may be conservative. • The maximum wind-induced responses of the suspending scaffolds appear at the middle of the bottom of the windward side.