Publication: Thermal comfort analysis for overhead and underfloor air distribution system
Date
2020-02
Authors
Ain Amira Johari
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Abstract
Underfloor and overhead air distributions are two types of Heating Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system in which both differs in term of channeling the supply air into a space. Underfloor air distribution (UFAD) system channels the supply air from the raised underfloor plenum and goes to the return vent at the ceiling while overhead air distribution (OHAD) system utilizes the ceiling-to-ceiling air pathway approach. OHAD system is found to be inefficiently providing thermal comfort to the occupant and consume high energy due to the extra conditioned air that is not fully utilized in the conditioned space. Preventative measure such as UFAD system, can be an alternative design of HVAC system to meet the occupant satisfaction. This research investigates the working principle for UFAD and OHAD system as well as the factors affecting the human thermal comfort. The strength and weakness for both systems was discussed yet UFAD system dominated the advantages. Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations were conducted to prove the benefits of using UFAD system with reference to past related works. Additional simulations considering other parameters were also conducted to support the initial results. It is proven that UFAD system can be a better HVAC design compare to OHAD system even though OHAD system do have some benefits. UFAD system can provide better indoor air quality (IAQ). It is best if the initial cost of UFAD system is cheaper as it is suitable to be installed in tropic region like Malaysia. Next, preventive action shall be proposed to solve the mold growth for UFAD system.
Description
TH7687 .A47 2020
Keywords
underfloor , overhead , thermal comford