Luftlast

Luftlast is a term used in engineering to describe the forces and moments exerted by air on a body due to the surrounding wind field or due to the body's motion through air. It encompasses aerodynamic pressures on surfaces as well as the resulting loads that act on structures, vehicles or components. In civil, mechanical and aerospace contexts the concept is central to ensuring safety, reliability and performance.

Luftlast includes both static components, such as mean wind pressures, and dynamic components caused by gusts, turbulence, buffeting or flutter. The loads depend on factors like air density, wind speed, geometry and orientation, and are often represented by dynamic pressure and pressure coefficients. Designers compute resultant forces and moments by integrating pressure distributions over surfaces and by applying appropriate load cases.

Calculation and analysis of Luftlast typically combine empirical data, analytical methods and numerical simulations. Common approaches involve wind tunnel testing, computational fluid dynamics, and standardized design procedures. In Europe, wind actions on structures are guided by standards such as EN 1991-1-4, which provides methods and load cases for different exposure, geometries and stability considerations. In aerospace and automotive engineering, Luftlast is closely linked to certification requirements and flight or driving safety margins.

Measurement of Luftlast can use lab experiments, field monitoring, and time-domain simulations to capture both steady and transient effects. Accurate modeling of dynamic loads is important for preventing excessive deflections, resonant responses, fatigue and failure.

Applications of Luftlast range from tall buildings and bridges to aircraft, missiles and high-speed vehicles. Proper assessment ensures structural integrity, occupant comfort, and flight or vehicle safety under expected operating conditions.