Experimental investigation of a new solid wood panel for room temperature control - Analysis of the cooling performance

Abstract

Wood industry’s current economic development shows an increase of selling multilayered solid wood panel products accompanied by a crescent functionalization of those panels. Within an industry driven project an additional functionalization in form of pipe elements for heating and cooling are to be applied to a multilayered solid wood construction. The development of this innovative radiant heating and cooling system requires extensive laboratory analysis. Investigations are focusing on thermal optimization as well as thermal and hygric long-term performance and durability. Previous studies devoted to optimize panel structure during a heating process, enabling efficient heat distribution within the panel as well as to the enclosing room. Whereas, current studies are concentrating on the cooling performance, which was analysed by means of specially manufactured prototypes of a solid wood panel. Laboratory measurements were carried out using a climatic test chamber as well as test benches, equipped with an infrared thermographic camera and several sensors for measuring temperature, relative air humidity, and heat flux density. Climate test chamber measurements are aiming at exploring material performance and stability of selected panel prototypes under defined boundary conditions. The performance of the overall panel system is investigated in specially built test benches, which allow statements to be made about the effectiveness of the radiant heating and cooling system with respect to a defined space. Within this paper measurement procedures of a laboratory panel investigation are described and first results are shown. Main criteria and boundary conditions of the measurement procedure are discussed. Measurement results are evaluated, particularly with regard to formation of condensation and moisture during a cooling load. Significant statements about functionality and cooling performance of the new developed wooden panel for room temperature control are made.