Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Air Conditioning Systems for Energy-Efficient Buildings

Abstract

In view of the escalating energy costs and global environmental concerns, it has become imperative to achieve energy efficiency in modern buildings. A large fraction of the energy consumed in buildings is for such things as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Fuelled by the reality of the need to improve the energy efficiency of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems while not sacrificing indoor environmental quality, this study employs computational fluid dynamics modeling to optimize heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation and design, although the design and operation of the system are most likely more complex. Through advanced simulation techniques, the research investigates airflow distribution, thermal comfort, and pollutant dispersion within air-conditioned spaces. The study shows how computational fluid dynamics can be used to predict temperature gradients, air circulation optimization, and the effect of some of the architectural features including window placement, insulating quality and air circulation strategies. Furthermore, computational fluid dynamics is combined with Building Energy Modeling to run real world operation result, thus enabling data driven optimization. By integrating the controller with common power saving and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning control strategies, such as time and daily charging frequency switching, the capability to develop heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems that dynamically respond to fluctuating loads is enhanced. It also outlines how computational fluid dynamics can be used for evaluating new energy saving strategies such as demand controlled ventilation and smart thermostat integration as well as renewable energy coupling. In addition, computational fluid dynamics is used not only to consider the associated system inefficiencies that impact consuming energy and creating discomfort for occupants such as airflow structure and heat accumulation at localized sites, but also to identify alternative configurations that demonstrate gains in energy or water consumption along with movement comfort. Additionally, the potential of the digital twin technology and its ability for real-time heating, ventilation, and air conditioning performance monitoring and predictive adaptation based on the real-time data streams is discussed. A comprehensive computational base for developing next-generation, energy-efficient, environment-friendly heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems that meet regulatory standards and improve occupant well-being is provided. As a piece of work to address rising energy consumption in buildings, especially in HVAC systems, and the lack of efficiency of traditional designing methods, this paper is articulated. The existence of affordable and simple models that are often utilized to predict airflow and temperature dynamics across HVAC systems is emphasized, but it points to the fact that these models often fail to provide sufficiently accurate insights; there is energy inefficiency, poor thermal comfort, and high operational costs. However, Computational Fluid Dynamics fills in this gap by providing much more accurate ways of simulating real-world HVAC performance for dynamic conditions. It also suggests a Computational Fluid Dynamics modeling in conjunction with the Building Energy Model to improve energy efficiency and comfort.