A comprehensive study to design HVAC systems and evaluate envelope performances

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss two types of projects performed by architectural engineering students: design and experimental projects. First, the design project methodology will be discussed, beginning with system selection (fan coil, VAV (Variable Air Volume) terminal box, under floor air distribution system, displacement ventilation and beam system), heating and cooling load estimation, systems sizing, airflow distribution, commissioning and culminating with administrative topics. We demonstrate this methodology through the use of a comprehensive design project. Secondly, we describe the experimental project. In this project a comprehensive experimental study is conducted by undergraduate students on a number of residential houses to improve the energy efficiency of these houses and identify the most appropriate energy conservation measures. We describe the work performed by students starting from the building instrumentation, the measurement and the monitoring of the energy consumption of the building systems, as well as the use of advanced energy simulation programs such as, Visual-DOE, eQuest and EnergyPlus for energy prediction purposes. The results of a number of experimental studies, such as duct blaster testing, blower door testing and infrared thermography has been demonstrated. Also, we show how these techniques have been used to improve the students' understanding of different concepts and techniques, such as pressurization, pressure and airflow measurements, duct leakages and building tightness, temperature and humidity distribution within building envelop and HVAC systems. © 2011 American Society for Engineering Education.