ANALYSIS OF FENESTRATION SYSTEMS FOR THERMAL COMFORT THROUGH SIMULATION

Abstract

This thesis seeks to analyze fenestration systems used in office buildings in hot humid conditions with a view towards thermal comfort. It does this by simulating the way in which different fenestration systems perform within the context of outdoor climate and indoor comfort temperature maintained (calculated using appropriate indices), thereby affecting thermal comfort. A broad literature study is done on thermal comfort; thermal comfort indices and the variables affecting it. Thermal comfort conditions (comfort zone and comfort temperature) for hot humid climate of Chennai and office typology are calculated using best appropriate thermal comfort index. The performance of selected fenestrations systems is simulated for thermal gain, using the monthly mean maximum temperature for outdoor condition and the calculated comfort temperature for indoor condition. The simulation is done using software for analyzing heat transfer through building products called THERM. Results are drawn in the form of comparison of performance of fenestration systems along with recommendations for suitable fenestration systems for office buildings in hot humid climate.