SPIRES AND ANTENNAE

Emirate Tower SpireSpires (architectural details) and antennae (communication features) are commonly placed at the top of tall structures.  Besides the exposed placement, the cross-sectional shapes of these appendages sometimes make these features aerodynamically sensitive.

Aeroelastic testing of spires and antennae in the wind tunnel provides design information on wind loads and deflections.  The results of these tests can also be used in the design of damper systems and for fatigue and load-cycle analysis.