Abstract
The thermal transmittance of building envelopes determines to a large extent the energy demand of buildings. Thus, there is a keen interest in having methods which can precisely evaluate thermal transmittance. From a scientific point of view, this study analyses the viability of the application of the thermometric method (THM), one of the most used methods in Spain. For this purpose, the test method has been improved by determining the adequate test conditions, the selection and installation of equipment, data acquisition and post-processing, and the estimation of uncertainty. We analyse eight case studies in a Mediterranean climate (Csa) to determine the potentials and limitations of the method. The results show that the values obtained through THM are valid under winter environmental conditions with relative uncertainties between 6% and 13%, while difficulties to perform the test in optimal conditions, and therefore to obtain valid results in warmer seasons, are detected. In this regard, the case studies which obtained a greater number of observations by performing the filtrate conditions were able to obtain representative results. Furthermore, there are significant differences depending on the kind of equipment and probes used during the experimental campaign. Finally, in warm climate regions a data filtrate can be considered for observations of a temperature difference higher than 5 °C, obtaining valid results for the case studies, although the rise in the thermal gradient can guarantee a greater stability of data.
Highlights
The concern about the environmental degradation of the planet has increased over the past few years
In the case of the region of Andalusia (Spain), the residential building sector was responsible for 15.9% of the total energy consumption in 2016, which represents an increase of 4.1% in comparison with 2014 [4]
Due to the fact that the metrological requirements given by the manufacturer do not address all factors that may affect the results of the test, we suggest some guidelines and criteria that should be applied when performing a thermometric method (THM) test
Summary
The concern about the environmental degradation of the planet has increased over the past few years. In Europe, 24.79% of the total energy used in 2014 was attributed to residential buildings [2]. In the case of the region of Andalusia (Spain), the residential building sector was responsible for 15.9% of the total energy consumption in 2016, which represents an increase of 4.1% in comparison with 2014 [4]. In this regard, it is important to highlight that the main source of consumption is attributed to meeting the heating demand [5,6,7]
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.