The airflow in rooms determines to a great degree the perception of comfort, especially in large glass-covered areas, naturally ventilated offices and industrial complexes. The airflow also determines the diffusion of harmful substances in a space.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a computer simulation method to solve specific airflow problems. In a CFD-study an integrated analysis can be made of, for example, all factors that effect thermal comfort, such as outdoor climate, heat radiation, cold down draughts on outside walls and induced convection in a mechanical ventilation system. Furthermore, by combining CFD calculations with tests in our wind tunnel, we can predict the efficiency of natural ventilation in offices and industrial buildings. Peutz also uses CFD analysis to predict, for example, the smoke distribution that will occur in shopping centres and multi-storey car parks, and the spread of heat and hazardous substances in and around industrial buildings.
With a CFD analysis, Peutz can provide both general and detailed information about the effects of architectural and engineering decisions on the thermal comfort in spaces of vastly differing dimensions and complexity.
Examples of projects using CFD:
- Royal Albert Hall in Londen, England
- Biosciences Centre in University of Liverpool, England
- Atrium Frieslandbank in Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
- Parking garage Kelfkensbos in Nijmegen, The Netherlands.