Performance analysis of an integrated UFAD and radiant hydronic slab system
Abstract
In this paper, an EnergyPlus model was used to simulate the operation of a novel integrated HVAC system. This system combines an underfloor air distribution system with a cooled radiant ceiling slab. A cooling tower supplies water to pre-cool the structural slabs during the night and early morning period. The paper compares the performance of this system to both a typical overhead system and a typical UFAD system in the cooling season for the Sacramento, California climate. When compared to the overhead system, the integrated UFAD/Radiant system shows a 22-23% reduction in total energy consumption during the peak cooling months (June to August) and a 31% reduction in peak hourly electricity demand. When compared to the UFAD system, these reductions are 21-22% and 24% respectively. An investigation of the simulation results showed that the integrated UFAD/Radiant system also improves occupant thermal comfort and reduces thermal decay issues in the underfloor plenum.
- Publication:
-
Applied Energy
- Pub Date:
- 2012
- DOI:
- 10.1016/j.apenergy.2011.02.014
- Bibcode:
- 2012ApEn...90..250R
- Keywords:
-
- Underfloor air distribution;
- Radiant cooling;
- Hydronic slab;
- Thermally activated building systems;
- Energy performance;
- EnergyPlus