Abstract:
In recent years, operational prediction and optimisation of heating,
ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and central plant to
minimise the energy required to maintain building indoor conditions have
become increasingly important. To effectively design and implement an
energy management program for building energy systems, a simulation study
must be performed.
This thesis describes research conducted into the development of a modular
simulation program for analysing the performance of HVAC systems and
central plant. The computer program uses a quasi-steady state modelling
approach and is able to simulate a wide variety of systems which are
configured using available component models.
Steady state mathematical models of HVAC components are developed using
fundamental heat and mass transfer principles, laws of conservation of
mass and energy and where appropriate empirical data. The carponent models
are formulated to allow for the effects of various control strategies on
the performance of systems and plant to be investigated.
The program is applied to simulate a part of the Collins' Building variable
air volume (VAV) air conditioning system and a hypothetical central cooling
plant. The results of the simulation exercises are presented and analysed.
The issue of validation and building energy simulation models is discussed.
Conclusions are drawn and recommendations for further work are made.
