Optimization of twisted high-rise building geometries for wind load mitigation and pedestrian comfort

Abstract

This study investigates the aerodynamic performance and pedestrian-level wind comfort of high-rise buildings with varying degrees of twist. Utilizing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and the Spalart–Allmaras Detached Eddy Simulation (DES) model, the analysis was conducted on a 150-m-high building with a base dimension of 40 m × 35 m. Five twist angles (0°, 10°, 15°, 20°, and 25°) were examined under a wind velocity of 50 m/s. The results indicated that increasing the twist angle significantly reduces the wind pressure on the building’s surface, with the maximum pressure reduction observed at a 10° twist, resulting in an 8.02% decrease from the 0° model. Additionally, the pressure distribution became more uniform with higher twist angles, indicating improved aerodynamic performance. Pedestrian-level wind speeds were assessed at six critical locations around the building base. It was observed that the twisted models significantly mitigated high wind velocities at pedestrian levels, enhancing comfort and safety. The study provides design recommendations for optimizing high-rise building geometries to balance structural integrity and urban livability.