Physical simulation of downburst winds for civil structures: A review

Complementary to field measurement and computational simulation, experimental generation of downburst winds in laboratories is an effective approach to enhance the understanding of the wind characteristics and the induced loads on civil structures. This study reviews the literature in physical simulation of downburst winds, while capturing historic background, highlighting recent advances, and illuminating future trends. A total of 23 testing facilities, classified into three categories of standalone simulators (12 facilities), modified boundary layer wind tunnels (five facilities), and multi-fan wind tunnels (six facilities), are discussed with their key features and representative studies. This paper serves as a valuable reference for future research in physical simulation of downburst winds.