[esp-r] Re: adding thermal mass

[Joe Clarke]

Hi Juanita

ESP-r includes the thermal mass of all constructions and, yes, adding 
furnishings will increase the thermal mass. Before using a model, we 
often carry out a quick pulse test to determine the cool-down rate. This 
gives us a target for additional thermal mass. A pulse test involves 
heating up (or cooling down) one or more spaces until a reasonable 
temperaure difference exists with outside (10 C for example) and then 
observing the cool down (or heat up) rate.

Also, make sure that you have not inadvertently isolated thermal mass 
by, for example, placing an insulation layer at an incorrect location.

Regards,

Joe

__
Professor J A Clarke
Director, ESRU and BRE Centre of Excellence
Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
James Weir Building
75 Montrose Street
University of Strathclyde
Glasgow G1 1XQ

email: joe at esru.strath.ac.uk
phone: +44 (0)141 548 3986
mobile: +44 (0)7800903808

On 17/07/19 10:01, Juanita Solano Guzmán wrote:
> Good morning,
>
> I am currently working on a model from a single office in in one 
> building and by looking at my results, I see that I am lacking thermal 
> mass. Based on some general knowledge I have from the construction of 
> this building, I have added some layers of cement in the ceiling and 
> the floor. I don´t know how the internal walls have been constructed, 
> but I have also added a layer of cement facing the inside of the room.
>
> In general, after multiple attempts I have not been able to add enough 
> thermal mass and I have some undesired temperature peaks and lows. 
> Regarding this I have the following questions:
>
> 1) Does ESP-r consider the thickness of the walls or are they "thin 
> surfaces"? that means that it does not consider any heat being stored 
> in these constructions. Same would go for the ceiling and floor?
> 2) Without adding any phase-change materials, is there a way to add 
> thermal mass in the office? Does adding furniture help or are they 
> just for visual purposes?
>
> Thank you very much in advance.
>
> Greetings,
> Juanita
>
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> esp-r at lists.strath.ac.uk
> http://lists.strath.ac.uk/mailman/listinfo/esp-r

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