KU-led ‘Wall of Wind’ research ongoing; findings tie in to tornado season

LAWRENCE — University of Kansas-led research to explore the effects of high winds on manufactured homes continues for a KU engineering professor currently in Miami utilizing a hurricane simulator, dubbed the “Wall of Wind.”

Elaina Sutley, Diane M. Darvin Chair’s Council Associate Professor of Civil, Environmental & Architectural Engineering at the University of Kansas, is leading the research, which aims to make it plain to federal regulators why the nationwide building code for manufactured homes needs an update.

With the Midwest in the middle of tornado season, Sutley is available to media to discuss the findings and how it could benefit millions of homeowners across the nation.

Testing in early May revealed how wind strength affects manufactured homes and explored safeguards to better protect the structures.

“The destructive testing teaches us a lot, including how damage progresses and the corresponding wind speed it happens,” Sutley said. “These insights provide us with the specific information needed to recommend what aspects and how the building code for manufactured homes should be changed.”

A second test is planned for this week at the facility on the campus of Florida International University in Miami.

“For the second unit, we are testing a different installation system at a higher elevation from the ground. We are planning to test to failure again and be able to compare findings across tests,” Sutley said.

Sutley said the research is seeking a broad range of partners, including industry participants, disaster recovery stakeholders and individuals with personal connections to manufactured housing. For more information on supporting the project, email enjsutley@ku.edu. Sign up for the WiSH Project newsletter to receive updates on the testing plan.