Paper Conference

Proceedings of eSim 2004: 3th Conference of IBPSA-Canada

     

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION TO BUILDING MECHANICAL SYSTEM -SIMULATION OF THERMO-ACTIVE SLAB WITH THERMAL MASS USING TAS

James Lee, Leed Ap

Abstract: Energy efficient buildings do not require highly technical systems or solutions in order to be effective. The fundamental knowledge of radiant heating and thermal mass system traces back over 2000 years ago, to the Roman Empire. The Thermo-Active Slab system can reduce not only overall construction costs but also annual energy and operation costs. Furthermore, the separation of the heating/cooling function from the ventilation function of the HVAC system allows the designer to match equipment sizes to individual functions. The entire air distribution system infrastructure, therefore, becomes smaller requiring less mechanical and plenum space. This can also lead to the reduction of floor-to-floor heights in the building saving resources. The main objectives of this presentation are to demonstrate the TAS simulation of Radiant Cooling and Heating with Thermal Mass and to illustrate the advantages of Thermo-Active Slab Construction in line with the latest Sustainable Development Strategies. In addition, thermo-profiles of room sections will be demonstrated using simple Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Ambients, for the visualization of a Thermo-Active Slab. A recent project undertaken by Earth Tech Inc. will be used as a showcase in the presentation. This paper does not discuss the detail cost breakdown or comparison between different mechanical systems.
Pages: 228 - 234
Paper:
esim2004_29