The Boundary Layer Wind Tunnel Laboratory (BLWTL) at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada, is a pioneering research facility recognized as the birthplace of modern wind engineering. Founded in 1965 by Dr. Alan G. Davenport to study the effects of wind on large structures, we offer decades of experience in wind engineering consulting and research services.
BLWTL contributes to the design of tallest buildings, longest bridges, and unique structures around the globe. Our state-of-the-art Laboratory models the Earth’s near-ground boundary layer, accurately replicating site wind conditions. Testing in these conditions allows unparalleled assessment of wind-induced structural behaviour.
We study all aspects of wind effects. As the first of its kind, our Laboratory has been responsible for developing many of wind engineering’s standard testing methodologies and design procedures. Our groundbreaking research continues to provides critical data and experience to the industry.
We contribute globally to the education of students on the research and application of wind engineering principles. Our Laboratory proudly supports Western University Faculty of Engineering’s undergraduate and graduate programs, and maintains strong, active links with universities and government laboratories worldwide.
Buildings
We deliver design solutions for determining structural wind loads on buildings, their cladding and components, as well as assessment of wind-induced dynamic responses for human comfort.
Research techniques for these structures include force-balance testing, pressure model testing, and aeroleastic model testing.
Notable previous projects include CN Tower, Burj Khallifa, Kingdom Tower, Willis Tower, and many more.
Bridges
We deliver detailed evaluations of structural wind loads and wind-induced response for bridges. Analyses include assessment of low-speed vortex-induced oscillations and high-speed aerodynamic stability.
Research techniques for these structures include static and dynamic section model testing, and full aeroelastic model testing.
Notable previous projects include Confederation Bridge, Canakkale Bridge, Stonecutters Bridge, Gordie Howe Bridge, and many more.
Pedestrian Level Winds
We deliver assessments of pedestrian level wind conditions around existing and proposed builds to evaluate comfort and safety criteria, identifying problem areas and suggesting remedies.
Research techniques for these analyses include wind tunnel testing and computational fluid dynamics analyses.
We have performed hundreds of studies for sites around the world, including major cities like Toronto, New York City, Hong Kong, and many more.
Specialized Research
We provide wind engineering consulting and research services for unique, challenging, and specialized projects.
We have experience with a range of unique structures including stadiums, spires, antannae, solar panels, power pylons, and many more.
Specialized wind engineering topics include climate and environmental studies, topographic studies, full-scale monitoring, computational wind engineering, and many more.
