Analysis of the alternative air ductwork by Numerical airflow behavior combined with the New Economic index and standard

Abstract

This research studies the numerical modelling using computational fluid dynamics with a k-Epsilon turbulence model to analyze airflow behaviors inside the alternative compared with conventional air ductwork combined with a comprehensive analysis of the economic parameter created by the author called Reveal Comparative Advantage Cost index. All alternative air ductwork has lower pressure drop and a higher ability to maintain the temperature inside, showing that alternative air duct systems have a significant advantage over conventional air ductwork. The fabric ductwork has a lower pressure drop than galvanized steel perforated ductwork, which is 69.15 %. The pre-insulated ductwork can keep the best temperature inside, with a different temperature value between the air inlet and air outlet of 0.06°C. The Reveal Comparative Advantage Cost of construction costs of the galvanized steel ductwork and the galvanized steel perforated ductwork are 1.02 and 1.06, which means the conventional air ductwork is initially cost-effective in terms of investment and operating costs. However, alternative air ductwork is the better option for long-term use. They have cost-effective electrical energy and maintenance costs with a high Reveal Comparative Advantage Cost index. Significantly, the pre-insulated ductwork has the Reveal Comparative Advantage Cost index of maintenance, electrical energy, and construction costs of 1.38, 1.09, and 0.95, respectively. The results of the airflow behaviors study combined with the Reveal Comparative Advantage Cost index study show that the galvanized steel perforated ductwork is not a selectivity that qualifies either for airflow behaviors or is unsuitable for investment. Pre-insulated ductwork is the appropriate option due to the high airflow behaviors and cost, which makes it suitable for investment. However, the Thailand Authority should develop alternative air ductwork Thai standards for engineering design and safety building.