Integrated moisture (including condensation) – Energy–airflow model within enclosures. Experimental validation

Indoor air humidity is an important factor influencing air quality, human comfort, energy consumption of buildings and the durability of building materials. As a result, the aim of this study is to put forward a numerical approach for conjugate thermo-solutal-convection and condensation of humid air phenomena in rooms. The numerical model pertinence is thoroughly analyzed using experimental data for ventilated enclosures (isothermal conditions, cold air supply, hot air supply and specific study of water vapour condensation on a cold glazed wall). Consequently, we first describe the experimental set-up (the test cell), focussing particularly on the elements concerning the humidification system and condensation qualification system, especially added for this study. This is followed by the numerical model description. The approach is essentially based on the computational fluid dynamics technique, adding a convection–diffusion conservation equation of water vapour to the basic equations for a turbulent non-isothermal air flow. In addition, detailed presentation of water vapour surface and volume condensation modelling is given. The results from our work can find a direct applicability in several fields: residential and commercial buildings (thermal comfort and energy consumption), museums and industry (microclimate control and technological conditions), vehicles (freezing prediction on the windshield).

► Comprehensive thermo-solutal-convection CFD model for humid air in rooms.
► In addition: water vapour surface and volume condensation modelling.
► Experimental validation based on full scale test cell (ventilated enclosure).
► Focus on the experimental humidification and condensation qualification systems.
► Analysed cases: isothermal/cold/hot air supply; condensation on glazed walls.