A new empirical model for predicting single-sided, wind-driven natural ventilation in buildings

Prediction of single-sided natural ventilation is difficult due to the bi-directional flow at the opening and the complex flow around buildings. A new empirical model was developed that can predict the mean ventilation rate and fluctuating ventilation rate due to the pulsating flow and eddy penetration of single-sided, wind-driven natural ventilation in buildings. The governing equation is based on the non-uniform pressure distribution along the opening height. The new model shows that the ventilation rate and wind velocity are linearly correlated. This investigation studied the eddy penetration effect in the frequency domain based on fast Fourier transform. Large eddy simulation (LES) and experimental data were used to validate the new empirical model. The model has also been used to analyze the influence of the opening geometry and elevation on the ventilation rate.

► We developed a new empirical model for predicting single-sided, wind driven ventilation rate. ► The model was compared and validated by CFD simulations and existing experimental data from the past literature. ► We studied the effect of wind direction, opening size and elevation on ventilation rates based on the model.