Dynamic thermal modelling and physical wind tunnel testing – an important partnership for building simulation 2009 conference

The use of computer simulation has increased rapidly within the construction industry over the last few years and this trend is set to continue.  However, it is important not to forget that physical testing methods still have a vital role in establishing the validity of and confidence in simulation modelling results. This paper reports on the experience of modelling in excess of 10 large shopping centres where for the majority, natural ventilation and wind driven air movement was a principal means of ventilation and cooling.  In all assessments, site-specific mean wind pressure coefficients from physical wind tunnel tests were used with an ESP-r simulation model in order to determine the feasibility of such schemes as well as to formulate design concepts and control strategies before construction. The assessments have also led to an increased understanding of the seasonal air regime at entrances so that excessive draughts, local discomfort for retail kiosks and energy consumption can be reduced. This paper clearly demonstrates the importance of physical testing and the increased accuracy of simulation assessments as a consequence.  The confidence that the design team has had in the simulation results has enabled them to take decisions that have saved considerable amounts of capital expenditure.