Is the roof, or roller door more susceptible in a cyclone?
First published 10 August 2012
Home owners who are interested in learning about the wind forces acting on different house parts during a severe weather event are invited to a James Cook University lecture on the topic next week.
The talk is part of JCU’s Public Lecture Series, which is new initiative of the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
The series showcases JCU’s research to the community and is designed to inform, educate and entertain residents about current science and engineering issues.
Next week’s topic “Cyclones and your house” will be presented by Dr David Henderson, the new Director of JCU’s Cyclone Testing Station (CTS).
Dr Henderson said it should be of interest to anyone who wanted to know about the particular effects of wind loads on their home, from the large forces trying to lift and push the house, to what happens when a window or door breaks.
“It is a talk for home owners and anyone interested in the wind forces acting on a house during a severe event, the parts of the house that resist these loads and lessons learnt when they don’t,” he said.
“In using these lessons, the talk will highlight areas of maintenance of parts of old and new houses that home owners can look for.’”
He will also discuss effects such as the destructive storm tide and wind-driven rain.
CTS Chairman John Galloway said Dr Henderson had a long association with the Station, having previously held the role of Manager prior to engaging in a PhD and pursuing other research interests.
“He is an ideal candidate for this new position, given his experience and his strong national and international reputation in the field of wind effects on building structures,” he said.
“David has been investigating wind loads on low-rise buildings over the past 20 years. During this time he has broken everything from roofing screws through to complete houses, and conducted damage investigations following cyclones, thunderstorms and tornadoes, here and overseas. He is a member of Standards Australia wind loads for housing and cladding standards committees.”
Date: Thursday, 16th August 2012
Time: 5.30pm for a complimentary drink and nibbles, lecture starts at 6.00pm.
Place: Sir George Kneipp Auditorium, James Cook University, Townsville.
For interviews, contact Dr David Henderson on (07) 4781 4340 or 0400 763 044.
JCU Media contact: Caroline Kaurila (07) 4781 4586 or 0437 028 175