RP-926 -- Development of Snow Melting Load Design Algorithms and Data for Locations Around the World PDF

The installed cost of snow melting systems installed in the U.S. each year is estimated at $200 to $300 million. Applications include sidewalks, roadways, ramps, and runways, and systems include hydronic, electric and infrared designs.

The procedures for calculating design-heating requirements for snow melting systems given in the ASHRAE Applications Handbook may significantly overestimate design requirements. Researchers have identified both theoretical and empirical considerations that may affect snow-melting loads but are not addressed by the ASHRAE Handbook. In order to provide accurate design guidance, these factors need to be thoroughly and systematically reviewed.

The objective of this research is to provide engineers with reliable algorithms and sufficient data for calculation of snow melting loads in a wide range of locations and countries, with a variety of meteorological data inputs.

PRINCAL INVESTIGATOR: James W. Ramsey, University of Minnesota
CONDUCTED: April 1996 - February 1999
SPONSORED BY: TC 6.1, Hydronic and Steam Equipment and Systems