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Wind Pressure Formula:
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Wind pressure calculation determines the force exerted by wind on structures. The formula P = 0.00256 × V² calculates wind pressure in pounds per square foot (psf) based on wind speed in miles per hour (mph).
The calculator uses the wind pressure formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that wind pressure increases with the square of wind speed, meaning small increases in wind speed result in significantly higher wind pressures.
Details: Accurate wind load calculation is essential for structural engineering, building design, and safety assessments. It helps determine appropriate construction materials, structural reinforcements, and compliance with building codes in wind-prone areas.
Tips: Enter wind speed in miles per hour (mph). The value must be positive. The calculator will compute the corresponding wind pressure in pounds per square foot (psf).
Q1: What units does this formula use?
A: This formula uses miles per hour (mph) for wind speed and pounds per square foot (psf) for wind pressure.
Q2: Is this formula applicable worldwide?
A: This formula is primarily used in the United States. Other countries may use different formulas and metric units (e.g., m/s for speed and Pa or N/m² for pressure).
Q3: What factors affect wind pressure?
A: Besides wind speed, factors like air density, surface roughness, building shape, and surrounding topography influence wind pressure on structures.
Q4: How accurate is this simple formula?
A: While useful for basic calculations, professional engineering applications often use more complex formulas that account for additional factors like gust effects, directionality, and building height.
Q5: What is considered a dangerous wind pressure?
A: Dangerous levels depend on the structure, but generally, pressures above 20-30 psf may cause damage to weaker structures, while hurricane-force winds can generate pressures exceeding 50 psf.