Industrial simulation model supports sustainable choices Effects of light and air are now predictable
The new construction and renovation of industrial buildings are highly complex processes. Various factors also have to be weighed up when making design choices, such as energy consumption, the indoor climate and operating costs. Brakel therefore developed the industrial simulation model, with a view to making the effects of such choices more readily apparent. Applications in the field of ventilation and daylight ingress can now be conveniently compared using the model. The clear data it provides enables clients and designers to make well-founded sustainable choices.
The simulation model takes various characteristics into consideration, such as the shell of the building, various ventilation control strategies, orientation of the building, daylight ingress and heat production. Numerous study variants enable property owners and clients to compare various options with one another.
Relationship between ventilation and fire safety An example of a case study: The indoor climate in a building needs to be improved. The simulation model is therefore used to compare various control strategies with one another. It then becomes clear whether natural ventilation would yield significant advantages in relation to mechanical ventilation in the case in question, in terms of the indoor temperature and comfort level for instance.
Fire safety can also be included as a parameter in the simulation model, however. A natural ventilation system can be conveniently linked to a smoke and heat extraction system. In the event of fire, the system then provides a supply of fresh air, while also extracting smoke and heat: this creates a safe evacuation route for those people still present in the building. Furthermore, it creates safe conditions which enable the fire brigade to combat the fire from inside, thus limiting damage to both the building and possessions. This last aspect is highly significant, as research has shown that 83% of businesses affected by a major fire ultimately fail within two year of the event!
The industrial simulation model in a nutshell:
Is a unique dynamic simulation model which is based on natural ventilation flows
Offers support in the design process
Provides insight into comfort and productivity levels
