AS 1170.2 Structural Design Actions – Wind Actions

AS 1170.2 is an Australian Standard that specifically focuses on structural design actions related to wind loads. It provides guidelines and specifications for the calculation and application of wind actions in the design of buildings and civil engineering works. The full title of this standard is “AS 1170.2 – Structural Design Actions – Part 2: Wind Actions.” Here’s an overview of the key points covered in AS 1170.2:

1. Wind Speeds and Pressures: The standard provides information on how to determine wind speeds and pressures that structures may be subjected to based on geographical location, terrain, and building height. It includes reference to Australian wind speed maps and defines different wind regions.
2. Wind Pressure Coefficients: AS 1170.2 includes information on wind pressure coefficients for various building shapes, sizes, and configurations. These coefficients are used to calculate wind pressures on different parts of the structure.
3. Wind Actions on Structures: The standard outlines the procedures for calculating wind actions on different structural elements, including walls, roofs, and other components. It covers both external and internal pressures.
4. Structural Design for Wind Loads: AS 1170.2 provides guidelines for designing structures to resist wind loads. This includes considerations for wind load combinations, load factors, and how to apply wind actions in the design process.
5. Importance Levels: The standard introduces importance levels that categorize structures based on their significance and function. Different importance levels have specific design requirements to ensure appropriate safety and performance.
6. Terrain Categories: The standard classifies terrains into different categories, reflecting their impact on wind loads. These terrain categories consider factors like open terrain, suburban terrain, and complex terrain.
7. Topographic Effects: AS 1170.2 addresses topographic effects such as hills, cliffs, and escarpments and how they can influence local wind patterns and loads.
8. Wind Load Analysis and Design: The standard guides engineers on how to analyze the wind load effects on structures and how to incorporate them into the design process to ensure structural stability and safety.

AS 1170.2 is a critical component of the Australian Standards for structural design actions, ensuring that buildings and civil engineering works are designed to withstand the wind loads associated with their specific locations and configurations. It is essential for structural engineers and designers when planning and constructing structures in Australia to ensure they meet the safety and performance requirements for wind loads. As with all Australian Standards, it’s important to use the latest version to adhere to current regulations and industry best practices.