Determination of k-factors of HVAC system components using measurements and CFD modelling.

Indoor air quality, comfort and energy use in buildings are largely dependent on the performance of HVAC systems. However, the pressure loss factors available to the designer show large discrepancies depending on the source of the data. In particular there are very few data regarding the effect on k-factors of interactions between duct components in close proximity. This paper describes measurement and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling of pressure loss in HVAC system components. The results were compared with those data given in the ASHRAE and CIBSE guides.