Cooling Performance Analysis and Optimization of a Room with Radiant Panel using CFD

Radiant systems are increasingly being used for heating and cooling spaces due to its benefits like better energy efficiency, improved thermal comfort and IAQ. In addition, the radiant systems reduce the ductwork and are aesthetically pleasing. However, the effectiveness of radiant systems for optimal design need detailed study of impact of several parameters. The performance evaluation of cooling systems with radiant panels require considering convection as well as radiation heat transfer modes. Using CFD simulation provides detailed flow and temperature distribution, thus helping optimize the cooling system design and location of supply and return flows. In this paper, detailed CFD simulation of a typical room with radiant panel for cooling has been performed. Typical heat loads from human, lights and computer are considered in the model. Different scenarios of return diffuser location, on floor and on ceiling, are considered. Impact of radiation and buoyancy are modeled in the simulation and typical thermal boundaries are applied for walls, roof and floor. The detailed temperature and flow distribution obtained from simulation are used to evaluate and optimize the cooling system, supply flow requirements and diffuser locations.