Florida International University
Experimental Facility

Working With Us: University Faculty

 

What Can the NHERI Wall of Wind Experimental Facility (WOW EF) Do For You?

Research topics that can be investigated at the NHERI WOW EF include (but are not limited to):

  • Obtaining wind load data for a wide range of building shapes, accounting for interference and shielding effects not addressed in current design standards. The archived database can help researchers study peak loads and validate computational methods
  • Validating numerical models (FEM and CFD models) that investigate the performance of civil infrastructure under natural hazard events
  • Holistic testing of integrated component assemblies to determine fragilities, progressive failure modes, and wind driven rain intrusion mechanisms
  • Validating sustainable building concepts and innovative mitigation strategies
  • Developing more energy efficient and smart building envelopes, identifying on-site renewable energy sources, and implementing natural ventilation strategies
  • Through strategic partnerships, investigating the use of aerodynamic data from straight winds in designs for tornadoes and downbursts

The services provided by the NHERI WOW EF to the researchers include:

  • Support for NSF proposal development
  • Design, construction, and instrumentation of test specimens
  • Test protocol development and software implementation
  • Operation of the wind tunnel
  • Data acquisition, archiving, and curation
  • Processing and post processing of the data (depending on the proposal)
  • Safety and user training
  • Telepresence for remote participation
  • Outreach and dissemination
  • Office space and internet service for users during their visit

Examples of our research capabilities are available on the page.

How to Start?

View the process from initial contact, to proposal submission, to project execution:

Cost Structure

The Usage Rates and Cost Breakdown document provides the rates associated with Federal Projects including NSF NHERI projects as well as a breakdown of the costs covered under each service. NHERI projects are defined as projects receiving funding from NSF to utilize the NHERI Wall of Wind Experimental Facility.