Numerical Computations of Flow Regimes in Enclosed Spaces

This paper is devoted to critically analyse the simulation validity of flow regimes in large rooms and enclosed, spaces using commercially available computational fluid dynamics code. This assessment is carried out through detailed comparisons between previous experimental and numerical data as well as present numerical data. Governing equations of mass, momentum, energy and species are solved numerically to predict the air flow patterns and thermal behaviour in rooms and healthcare facilities. The present paper is divided to several sections that review the previous research in open literature and briefly describe the governing equations, boundary and inlet conditions, as well as modelling assumptions. The turbulence characteristics of the flow is represented through the two equation turbulence model that solves the transport equations for the kinetic energy of turbulence k and its dissipation rate c in full three dimensional domain under steady state conditions. Energy efficiency improvement in air-conditioned buildings applications was found to depend mainly on the design configurations and operating parameters. The room airside design is one of the essential factors that strongly influence the HVAC airflow pattern and consequently the air quality and comfort inside special rooms. After comparing measured and predicted flow regimes in different spaces, a brief summary of conclusions with some recommendations to facilitate the development of optimum energy efficient design are presented.