Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) To Verify HVAC System Performance

What is one of the top goals when designing a commercial HVAC system? It should be improving the overall indoor environment so that you increase building occupant’s comfort. But, designing an HVAC system for any application can be a challenge, especially when dealing with a difficult to design space. Luckily, Price Industries offers an analysis tool called Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD)using ANYS CFX™ software. With Predict by Price, you can test design options, predict air distribution, verify thermal comfort and indoor air quality and validate load calculations and mechanical system sizing. Being able to test these things allows you to maximize comfort and minimize energy usage.  

Here are a few frequently asked questions about CFD:  

What is computational fluid dynamics (CFD)?  

A mathematical analysis tool that can be used to verify the performance of an HVAC system. 

What are the benefits of CFD?  

CFD provides all project stakeholders with insurance that a system will perform as specified and will result in recommendations for how to further optimize a system.  

• • • Confidence in final design - design insurance 
    • Value engineering tool to optimize each project dollar up front 
    • Potential to downsize mechanical infrastructure saving money for the client
    • Leverage Predict experience in HVAC to design your project

Where would you use CFD?  

It is recommended that CFD analysis be performed on difficult to design spaces within a building. It is also recommended for spaces that repeat many times throughout a building like an office (private or open) or a patient room. Generally, projects that are well suited for a CFD analysis fall into two categories: high-risk environments and challenging applications. 

High-Risk Environments: An environment that requires precision control of temperature, humidity, and/or air quality in the space. 

Application Examples 

Clean rooms · Healthcare facilities · Drug storage facilities · Specialized manufacturing · Horticultural facilities · Archival vaults · Agricultural facilities 

Challenging Applications: These applications might use an engineered product or a conventional system that is being applied in a large open space, or in an application that may be subject to extreme heat gains or losses. 

Application Examples:  

Atriums · Auditoriums · Areas with high ceilings or no ceiling · Data centers, battery storage facilities · Airport terminals · Arenas · Areas with a large glass facade · Use of engineered products (displacement, underfloor, etc.)

Check out how your CFD results can be turned into a virtual reality in the video below! 

For any additional questions about CFD and if you think you might have an application that needs this analysis tool, reach out to your local Price representative.  

Blog content and image: Price Industries