NY-87-16-5 -- Experimental Validation of the Duct Submodel for the SP43 Simulation Model PDF

A transient finite difference model of a residential duct system has been developed as part of ASHRAE Special Project 43 (SP43), directed to the dynamic seasonal performance of residential forced air heating and cooling systems. The model treats each duct section separately and predicts the heat flow between the duct and the surrounding environment.

Detailed experimental data were collected on the performance of the duct system for test periods of two to four days during two heating seasons and one cooling season in two houses with basements: a ranch,style house and a two-story house.

The model and its assumptions are discussed, verified, and validated. The model is shown to track energy transport through the ducts within 5%. The effect of duct performance on overall heating and cooling system performance will be discussed. This paper is the fifth in a series on the SP43 project.

Units: I-P