SA-96-06-4 -- Condensation Resistance Validation Project - Detailed Computer Simulations Using Finite-Element Methods PDF

Seven different types of insulated glazing units (IGU) were analysed to determine their thermal performance and condensation resistance potential. To determine the detailed convective, radiative, and conductive heat transfer and to validate computer models, a general-purpose fluid flow and heat transfer finite-element analysis software package and two public domain fenestration heat transfer analysis programs, THERM and WINDOW 4.1, were used. A standard set of boundary conditions was investigated by imposing fixed surface heat transfer coefficients on the indoor and outdoor glass surfaces. In addition, a newly developed condensation resistance model was used to predict temperature distributions on the indoor surfaces. Results are reported in terms of U-factors and temperature distributions on the indoor glass surfaces.

KEYWORDS: year 1996, condensation, thermal conductivity, computer programs, calculating, windows, double glazing, triple glazing, insulating window films, heat flow, surface temperature, heat transfer coefficient, temperature distribution, transmittance, comparing