CFD Analysis of Wind Distribution around Buildings in Low-Density Urban Community

Abstract

The computational fluid dynamics (CFDs) models based on the steady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (RANSs) using the k − ω two-equation turbulence model are considered in order to estimate the wind flow distribution around buildings. The present investigation developed a micro-scale city model with building details for the Hail area (Saudi Arabia) using ANSYS FLUENT software. Based on data from the region’s meteorological stations, the effect of wind speed (from 2 to 8 m/s) and wind direction (north, east, west, and south) was simulated. This study allows us to identify areas without wind comfort such as the corner of the building and the zones between adjacent buildings, which make this zone not recommended for placement of restaurants, pedestrian passages, or gardens. Particular attention was also paid to the highest building (Hail Tower, 67 m) in order to estimate, along the tower height, the wind speed effect on the turbulence intensity, the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), the friction coefficient, and the dynamic pressure.