2006 Volume 31 Issue 2 Pages 35-49
Wind loads on free-standing canopy roofs have been studied experimentally. Two series of wind tunnel experiments were carried out. In the first series, simultaneous pressure measurements were made for three types of roof geometries, i.e. gable, troughed and mono-sloped, with relatively low pitches (up to 15o). In the second series, the overall wind forces and moments were measured for gable and troughed roofs with medium pitches, 20o to 30o, using a force balance. Correlation between the wind force and moment coefficients is investigated, and appropriate wind force coefficients for the design of main force resisting systems are proposed. Axial forces in the columns supporting the roof are regarded as the most important load effect. Two loading patterns causing the maximum tension and compression of columns are considered. The effect of obstruction under the roof on the wind force coefficients is also investigated.
