With stadiums being constructed all around Qatar in preparations for the 2022 World Cup, local researchers using models produced with 3D printing to test how the various structures can handle different weather conditions.
The models are being run through a wind-tunnel simulation to see how robust the structures really are, with laser beams and analytics software tracking the results.
"We can see the temperature per tier, add in variants such as sweat produced and amount of spectators, and then run the simulation and see the effect on the temperature inside the stadium," said QU Professor Saud Abdul Azai Abdi Ghani, according to Doha News .
So far, two stadiums, including Al Bayt in Al Khor City and Al Wakrah, have been tested. Al Thumama stadium is the next facility scheduled for testing. The process of 3D printing a stadium model takes up to one week, according to The Peninsula Qatar .
“All of the design for the wind tunnel and everything you see here was carried out in Qatar, except the fan which is produced in Germany. We’ve tested two stadiums and a fan zone like this: Al Bayt Stadium, Al Wakrah Stadium and the fan zone for 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil held at Aspire Academy in Doha. Al Thumama Stadium will also be tested and we are currently printing the stadium,” Ghani added .
Over the past few months, the data compiled by the researchers has helped in ensuring better stadiums for the World Cup. The QU team works closely with the SCDL, who use the findings from the wind tunnel tests to adjust the design of the stadiums in progress.
The process of 3D printing the stadiums will reduce energy and capital costs as well as the adverse effects on the environment.
“In effect we are minimizing the effect on the environment, as well as the cost and the operational cost,” Ghani said .