4499 -- Development of a Room Air Diffusion Design Guide PDF

The objectives of ASHRAE Research Project 1065 were to complete a literature review and to produce a design guide on the topic of conventional room air diffusion. The guide is intended to improve HVAC designers' ability to achieve acceptable thermal comfort, acoustical conditions, and indoor air quality via appropriate room air diffusion. Conventional ceiling-based approaches for commercial and institutional buildings were emphasized. The project's separate literature report summarizes previously published design information and gives recommendations for future research efforts. A bibliography of research and applied readings is provided in the literature report and in this paper. In the project's design guide, many of the phenomena, standards, and design experiences that affect selection and placement of ceiling-based air diffusion equipment are discussed. To increase its effectiveness, the guide is as concise as possible and includes many noncommercial graphics as well as sample calculations. Recommendations for future research include the evaluation of the ADPI for other situations and for additional types of air outlets. More information is also needed on optimizing the size, number, and location of return inlets relative to the types and placement of supply outlets.