Improved interpretation and validation of CFD predictions

The mean velocity in rooms predicted by CFD simulations based on RANS equations differs from the mean (in time) magnitude of the velocity, i.e. the mean speed, in rooms measured by low velocity thermal anemometers with omnidirectional sensor. This discrepancy results in incorrect thermal comfort assessment by the CFD predictions as well as incorrect validation of the predicted velocity field. In this paper the discrepancies are discussed and identified, and a method for estimating the mean speed based on the CFD predictions of mean velocity and kinetic turbulence energy is suggested. The method is applied and improvement in thermal comfort assessment is demonstrated.