Fuller, R J and Luther, M B (2003) Simulation of condensation problems in a roller-skating centre. Building Research & Information, 31(1), pp. 48-59. ISSN 0961-3218
Abstract
A commercial roller-skating centre in southern Australia had condensation problems on both the roof and floor. The building is a typical warehouse-type structure with a high level of natural ventilation due to poor construction and permanently open vents. A computer model of the building, using the thermal simulation software TRNSYS, was calibrated from a sensitivity analysis of three key parameters, namely air exchange rate, roof surface heat transfer coefficient and deep ground temperature. The predicted times of condensation on the roof were compared with site observations. The time of year was predicted with acceptable accuracy, although earlier in the morning than had been observed. The effect of installing foil insulation in the roof was simulated. Under normal winter conditions, this modification was enough to stop the condensation. However, in unusually cold and humid conditions, condensation still occurred on both surfaces. This was overcome by heating the flow (15 W/m2) for approximately eight hours. Subsequent modifications have demonstrated the value of the simulations.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Australia; condensation; simulation; skating centre; trnsys; warehouse |
| Index terms: | roof, accuracy, sensitivity analysis, winter, insulation, Australia, natural ventilation |
| Subjects: | professional development, climate science, environmental hazards, design practice, environmental engineering, Geography, building materials |
| Topics: | Sustainability, Information Management, Design Practice, Geographical Context |
| Descriptive scope: | 2 PC |
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