Study of the wind-pressure distribution of flat-roof parabolic condensers based on wind-tunnel tests

Abstract

Abstract The structure of parabolic condensers makes them susceptible to wind load because of their thin and large windward mirrors. In this paper, the wind pressure on a model of a condenser mirror (1:35) on multistorey flat roofs is analysed via pressure measurement in a wind tunnel. The mean wind-pressure distribution law of flat-roof condenser mirrors (including the change law with working conditions and the maximum distribution characteristics) and the distribution law of fluctuating and extreme wind pressure are obtained. Furthermore, by comparison with the ground-based condenser distribution law, similarities and differences between the two are obtained. Research results show that the wind-pressure distribution law of flat-roof parabolic condenser mirrors is the same as those on the ground, but the mean wind-pressure coefficient (absolute value) is generally ~30% smaller. Furthermore, the maximum effect is generally located at the windward mirror edge and the mirror is more susceptible to wind pressure in wind directions of 30° and 135°–150°. The results of this study can provide a theoretical reference for wind-resistant structure design and multistorey flat-roof condenser-related research.