Buildings require ventilation. Industrial shutter systems, otherwise known as louvres, are often used to control ventilation and airflow through buildings instead of traditional windows as they offer better security and weather resistance, however there are various factors can inhibit their effectiveness. For example, external influences like wind speed and direction, as well as design factors such as size and positioning can be detrimental to the effective operation of the louvre ventilation system.
Traditionally, designs are prepared based on building regulations and experience, these can then be tested after installation to ensure that the flow rates comply with building regulations, but may require adjustments to comply or to optimise efficiency which may be expensive or difficult to achieve depending on the nature of the changes required.
It is preferable to understand the impact of the influential factors within the design phase and minimise the need for system adjustments.
In order to allow the various factors to be assessed at the inital design stage, Jesmond built a dynamic CAD model of the louvre system to closely align to the client’s specification but to allow for certain key parameters, such as the size and thickness of louvre blades and the pitch of these in relation to the airflow, to be variable and therefore studied without the need for construction.
Jesmond created a model of a representative building, adding the louvre positioning and initial conditions similar to those in the required geographical area.
Jesmond then used CFD to run various scenarios, changing parameters including using various wind directions to determine their effects.
Jesmond Engineering carried out a series of simulations using differing wind velocities and direction appropriate to the geographical area and provided visual illustrations of the effects of these to help the client downselect the optimal louvre design and placement.
CFD was a cost effective way to assess the likely impacts of external factors like wind speed and direction as well as the effects from changing the louvre design and locations. This was all be done in the initial stages, meaning the client was able to use the analysis results provided by Jesmond Engineering to finalise the ventilation sysem and progress onto full building design with greater confidence, saving them time and money.
