CFD – Computational Fluid Dynamics

Halton Innovation HUB offers computational fluid dynamics (CFD) services for analyzing and optimizing indoor climate conditions. CFD is suitable for a wide range of indoor environmental solutions and is especially useful when physical tests are difficult to set up. Our ability to produce accurate CFD results has been validated by comparing them with laboratory measurements. The possibility to use exact information on the construction and dimensions of Halton’s products is an important factor in generating realistic results.

The basic parameters for the CFD are:

• The velocity of air (or other fluid)
• The density of air (or other fluid)
• Pressure
• Temperature

and other parameters that are commonly included or calculated from the basic parameters are:

• Thermal radiation
• Age of air/Air change effectiveness
• Migration of particles, droplets, etc.
• Humidity
• Comfort factors (Draught rate, PMV, PPD)

The CFD software we are using is Ansys CFX or Ansys Fluent. As CFD typically requires quite high computing capacity we have a dedicated workstation primarily for this purpose. It is capable of handling most of our computing needs in reasonable time, but for exceptionally large cases there is naturally a possibility to use external cloud computing services, for example.

Halton Mock-up – Full-scale test for indoor environment

A full-scale mock-up test set-up involves building a model or test space in line with the actual project site as accurately as possible, with measurements, furnishings, and technical systems whose functionality matches the plans / actual site as closely as possible. The typical test space is a room or a part of a larger area. Customer-based indoor climate testing and measuring.

Regular mock-up room for full-scale tests for indoor environment:

• Floor area 6,5 m x 4,4 m
• Adjustable floor height up to 3,5 m
• Simulate windows to present cool or warm window
• External or internal compensation for loads

Throw length measurement room

Throw length measurements in stable conditions for determinate product characteristics (velocity measurement)

• Room size 10 * 6 m, height 2.4 – 3.2 m
• Minimum velocity to be measured 0.05 m/s
• Applying standards ISO 5219 and ISO 5167
• Airflow rate up to 250 l/s
• Computer-controlled measuring robot

Acoustic measurement room

Sound measurement in reverberation room for sound developments and attenuations

• Space volume 200 m³ with absorption area of ~ 209 m²
• Able to measure frequencies between 125 – 10.000 Hz (63 Hz also possible)
• Definition of sound power level ISO 3741
• Definition of compensating attenuation ISO 7235,
• Definition of airflow rate with orifice plate ISO 5167
• Reverberation times 2 – 9 s (hard room, dependent on frequency)
• Airflow rate up to 2,000 l/s