Home

Projects

Air conditioning Studies

Being the top energy consumer the air conditioning system is a key target for energy conservation efforts. In this direction, recent research interests include:

1. District cooling concept

2. Ventilation rate and performance and indoor air quality

3. Thermal comfort level in tropics

District cooling concept is presently being studied by local private enterprise from the commercial points of view. Its energy efficiency and performance are two key attractions which are presently being evaluated. The Centre for Building Performance and Construction at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is engaged with a local firm looking into the viability and energy performance of such air conditioning approach.

With the advent of the Sick Building Syndrome, additional attention has been given to the performance of air conditioning systems. In the USA modification of ASHRAE’s Standard on Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality has been proposed which includes significant increase in ventilation provision. Such modification would have significant impacts on the energy usage of air conditioning systems. A research entitled Energy Conservation and Indoor Air Quality in Singapore has been undertaken by the Centre for Building Performance and Construction.

Thermal comfort level is the key factor which determine the level of cooling, the ventilation rate and the humidity level to be provided by the air conditioning system. The setting of these parameters determines the energy consumption level, and most important of all the well being of the building occupants. Yet, very little work has been undertaken locally to understand this requirement. Presently, as part of the research programme on indoor air quality mentioned above, the indoor thermal comfort levels and physical air parameters are being measured in office buildings in Singapore. To date, measurements in more than 10 buildings have been completed.

Designed By Cyber-IB.com Pte Ltd, Singapore. All rights reserved.