Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) plays a key role in modern HVAC design, helping engineers understand airflow, humidity, heat transfer, and thermal comfort within a space. The blog by Gemma Hatton, highlights key challenges, including multiphysics modelling, defining realistic boundary conditions, and quantifying thermal comfort using standards such as ASHRAE 55, ISO 7730, and UTCI.
Demonstrated through a swimming pool case study, advanced open-source CFD tools like HELYX aim to identify airflow short-circuiting and poor air distribution in an existing ventilation system. Engineers used simulation results to evaluate nozzle-based redesigns, improving ventilation coverage and reducing humidity levels across the facility. The findings underscore how CFD supports informed decision-making in complex environments where occupant comfort, indoor air quality, and ventilation effectiveness must all be balanced.
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