Simulation of air flow in naturally ventilated buildings

The air flow pattern and temperature distribution in a naturally ventilated classroom were simulated using CFD techniques. The simulation model consists of equations for the conservation of mass, momentum and thermal energy, taking account of the effects of buoyancy and obstacles in the room. The well known k-e turbulence model was used to simulate the effect of air turbulence. Close to the inside surface of the room and the obstacle boundary, the wall-function equations were used for momentum and heat flux. Heat sources existing in the classroom were included in the simulation. The equations were solved using the finite volume method and the SIMPLE algorithm. The predicted velocity and temperature distributions are in agreement with experimental data.