Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Modelling of Air Movement and Temperature Distribution in a Room

Assessment Details

Assessment Details

Module Learning Outcomes Assessed by Coursework

MLO1 Select and defend an appropriate method for modelling a given energy system.

MLO2 Appraise the limitations and weaknesses of the method used.

MLO3 Successfully design, build and use a simulation model describing the dynamic response of an energy system.

MLO4 Critically evaluate the results obtained from a dynamic simulation model of an energy system.

MLO5 Critique the benefits and limitations of dynamic simulation modelling compared with conventional professional design practice

3.2 Coursework Overview

This assignment is designed to enable you to explore in some depth the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to analyse the air movement and temperature distribution within a simple room under a range of different scenarios. Please produce a professionally presented academic report detailing your critical analysis of each of the five cases set out within this brief.

You are to use a CFD software available in all the Mechanical and Construction Engineering IT Laboratories for this assignment. This software will be demonstrated in the IT lab sessions and there is a set of self-study tutorials available on the module eLP site which will be helpful in building your CFD skills and understanding.

Please be aware that it takes time to build confidence with CFD software and that in order to maximise your learning potential you need to engage entirely right from the early sessions and to dedicate significant additional time outside of class. You can then bring your questions along to the next class to discuss with the tutor to build your confidence and skills and doing so will prepare you will to answer this assignment.

3.3 Coursework Tasks to be Completed by Students

Five variants (A-E) of a simple case are presented below to allow you to simulate air and temperature distribution in a single rectangular room using CFD modelling. Two isothermal cases A and B focus on the air distribution in the room whilst cases C, D and E concentrate on the natural and mixed convection heat transfer in the room.z

Key dimensions:

• Room size: 7.0m (L) x 4.0m (W) x 3.0m (H)

• Supply grille size: 0.6m (W) x 0.2m (H)

• Extract grilles size: 0.2m (W) x 0.2m (H)

• Furniture size: 2.0m (L) x 1.0m (W) x 0.8m (H)

• Window size: 2.0m (W) x 1.5m (H)

• Radiator size: 1.8m (W) x 0.8m (H) x 0.05m (D)

In cases A, B & D, a supply grille is positioned at the centre of the west-facing wall, at a distance of 0.2m from the ceiling to the top edge of the diffuser. The discharge angle of the diffuser is horizontal. There are two extract grilles located in the two corners of the east wall, with a distance of 0.2m from the edges.

In cases C & D, there is a sash window located in the south-facing wall, at a distance of 0.8m above the floor. In case C, a single panel radiator is added to the room, which is located 0.1m in front of the southfacing wall and 0.1m above the floor. Present and discuss the CFD results and include the key settings information such as the size of cells, the number of grids in each dimension, and the number of the iteration simulated. For cases A and B you need only present graphics of room air velocity. For cases C and D, you should present graphics of both room air velocity and temperature. Discuss your results in the context of satisfactory room air distribution (cases A and B) and room air distribution and thermal comfort by using air distribution performance index (cases C, D and E).

Guidance for Students on Policies for Assessment

The University has several policies for assessment. The following information, which is available to you from the link below, provides guidance on these policies, including relevant procedures and forms.

(1) Assessment Regulations and Policies

(a) Assessment Regulations for Taught Awards

(b) Group Work Assessments Policy

(c) Moderation Policy

(d) Retention of Assessed Work Policy

(e) Word Limits Policy

(2) Assessment Feedback

(a) Anonymous Marking Policy

(3) Late Submission of Work and Extension Requests

(4) Personal Extenuating Circumstances

(5) Technical Extenuating Circumstances

(6) Student Complaints and Appeals

(7) Academic Misconduct

(8) Student Disability and Unforeseen Medical Circumstances