The handbook SP 64 (2001) serves as an explanatory guide on the Indian Standard Code of Practice for Design Loads (Other than Earthquake) for buildings and structures, emphasizing wind loads. It details the background and implementation of design standards in light of the revised National Building Code of India and the evolution of civil engineering practices. This handbook is pivotal for structural engineers and architects in designing wind-sensitive buildings considering the unique climatic and geographical aspects of India.
The document elaborates on the nature of wind, categorizing it into rotating (tropical cyclones, tornadoes) and non-rotating (pressure system) winds, each affecting structures differently. It provides a detailed analysis of wind behavior, including gradient wind effects, mean wind speed variations with height, and different flow patterns around bodies such as circular cylinders and bluff bodies like square-section prisms. Key focus is given to the dynamic and static effects of wind on structures, explaining how buildings react to various wind pressures, which is crucial for ensuring their stability and integrity.
Furthermore, the handbook incorporates advancements in understanding wind characteristics, integrating this knowledge into practical guidelines for accurate wind load calculations. It also critiques previous versions of the code, particularly the 1964 code, highlighting improvements and updates in the 1987 revision to better reflect contemporary engineering insights and the actual conditions in India.
By comprehensively addressing the calculation of wind loads and their implications on structural design, SP 64 (2001) aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of building constructions against the dynamic forces of wind, aligning with global standards while considering local nuances.
