Aerodynamic performance of high-rise buildings with orifices: A CFD study

Developing nations like India face the dual challenge of meeting the growing demand for housing while preserving agricultural land due to rapid population growth. To optimize land use, the construction of high-rise buildings is a viable solution. However, as building height increases, wind loads become a critical factor, causing twisting, overturning, and vibrations in both along-wind and crosswind directions, which pose serious risks to human life. Therefore, analyzing these forces is essential during the design phase. This study uses Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to evaluate the aerodynamic performance of hexagonal and octagonal high-rise buildings with and without a single orifice at 75% of the building height. The orifice significantly improves structural stability by reducing wind pressure on the windward face and suction on the leeward face. These openings also enhance natural ventilation and lighting, contributing to better thermal comfort and energy efficiency.