Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

If V(ult) is 160 mph, what would be the V(asd) for the building?

1. 120 mph

2. 140 mph

3. 160 mph

4. 128 mph

The correct answer is: 128 mph

To determine the appropriate V(asd) for the building when the ultimate wind speed, V(ult), is given as 160 mph, an understanding of how design wind loads are calculated in structural engineering is essential. V(asd), or allowable design wind speed, is typically derived from the ultimate wind speed by applying a factor that accounts for safety, risk, and dynamic behavior of the structure. In many codes and standards, the allowable design wind speed is calculated by dividing the ultimate wind speed by a safety factor, which varies but is often around 1.25 for buildings. When you apply this factor to the given ultimate speed: V(asd) = V(ult) / safety factor Assuming a common safety factor of about 1.25: V(asd) = 160 mph / 1.25 = 128 mph This calculation leads us to conclude that the allowable design wind speed for the building would be 128 mph, making that the correct choice. Understanding how to apply these principles is crucial for ensuring that buildings are designed to withstand environmental loads appropriately.