Presents the underlying theoretical basis for measuring air flows in complex, multi-cellular buildings and by reviewing the existing experimental procedures which enables the carrying out of these measurements. Shows that inter-cell air flows can be determined only by generating N sets of tracer gas conservation equations, where N is the number of cells. Describes 3 systems being designed to carry out multi-cell ventilation measurements< 1. "grab sampling"< 2. multiple tracer measurements< 3. measuring averaged air change rates over long periods.
Examines a new energy conservation technique based on the control of the "fresh air intake" through measurement of CO2 content in extracted air for different kinds of buildings. Assesses various techniques for measuring CO2 concentration in view to design a low cost sensor, concludes that theinfra-red absorption technique is the most suitable. Shows through computer simulation that a CO2 based ventilation system can provide a better pay-back period than an air-to-air heat exchanger.
Describes a project aimed at developing a method of measuring air infiltration rates in large single cell enclosures and buildings, and of using the method to collect data on actual infiltration rates. Makes a brief survey of existing and novel methods of measuring air infiltration rates. Identifies 2 methods which merit further consideration - the use of methane as a tracer gas,measuring its concentration with an infrared laser technique; and the use of ethanol vapour as a tracer gas, measuring its concentration with a fuel cell detector.
Treats laboratory and field investigations indicating the danger to health of non-smokers of inhaling tobacco smoke (passive smoking),to the extent that measures to protect the passive smoker are recommended at 1.5 ppm of carbon monoxide concentration caused by smoking and deemed necessary from 2 ppm. Calculations show that in a state of equilibrium a fresh air supply of 33 m3 per hour and per cigarette smoked is needed to maintain the upper limit of 2 ppm carbon monoxide concentration caused by tobacco smoke.
Discusses whether air conditioning could be replaced. Treats the evolving concept of constructing office buildings designed to meet comfort conditions by natural ventilation, with mechanical ventilation, cooling and humidification applied only during the coldest parts of the winter and hottest periods of the summer. Describes the practical application of this concept to three office buildings in West Germany.
A supplement to an earlier aricle. Notes that the trend to airtight windows has altered the order of importance of the factors which influence air flow in buildings. Treats the calculation of the air flow in a building and the constituent factors - pressure loss, differential pressures with air supply, thermal buoyancy, wind, fans. Sets out the calculation procedure and applies it to two worked examples. Illustrates the effect on a building of the pressure drop, thermal buoyancy etc. in diagrams.
States that a comprehensive sealing program should be considered in every residential energy conservation program. Covers the theory of air flow in a structure , how this theory is converted into a practical service, and theeffect on the house including humidity and air quality concerns. Describes the infiltrometer, a pressurization device used to detect air leakage, how to useit and how to interpret data.
Reports on radon measurements made in the municipalities of Uppsala, Sodertalje and Tyreso. Uses about 7600 kodak plastic films in private houses and bloks of flats. About 3-14% of private residences have concentrations above 200 Bq/m3, and 0.5% blocks of flats. 8-68% of private residences and 57-83% of blocks of flats have less than 70 Bq/m3 of radon.
Performs an investigation concerning the operation of ventilation systems in an old building (a museum) after extensive repairs have been made. The new ventilation system is a supply and exhaust type. Measures ventilation rate and energy consumption for 1. mechanical air supply and and exhaust 2. Mechanical exhaust only 3. Exhaust from the secondary space only with other ventilation ducts closed. Uses nitrous oxide as tracer gas. Measurement of radon concentration shows that concentration is lower in 1 than 2, in spite of the fact that the air change rate is the same in both (0.7 ach).
States that the dependence between the energy consumption to maintain a comfortable indoor climate and the average outdoor temperature is close to being linear (at least in the absence of significant passive solar gains). Calls the slope of the graph the energy signature of the building. Such an analysis yields a powerful tool to monitor the energy consumption of a building and thereafter to evaluate the effectiveness of a set of retrofits. Suggests that the energy signature be expressed in units of hourly air change rate.
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