Numerical evaluation and optimization of air distribution system in a small vertical farm with lateral air supply

Abstract

An appropriate design for air distribution systems is crucial for achieving optimal and uniform growth conditions while reducing energy costs in vertical farms. This study employs steady computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to investigate the influence of several key design parameters of air distribution systems in a small generic vertical farm with a lateral air supply. The simulation results reveal that an air supply orifice of reduced dimensions, positioned proximally to the LED lamps, coupled with an exhaust mechanism integrated into the corridor ceiling, proves most effective in removing the excess heat generated by the LED lamps. Moreover, enhanced uniformity in air distribution is attained by positioning the air supply closer to the LED lamps, utilizing larger orifices, and eliminating the corridor space. In contrast, the vertical distance between the lateral air exhaust orifices and the cultivated regions is found to have a negligible effect.