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Fenestration Condensation Resistance: Computer Simulation and In Situ Performance

Authors: Elizabeth Ordner;

Fenestration Condensation Resistance: Computer Simulation and In Situ Performance

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to examine condensation rating procedures, specifically the procedures as defined by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), and to compare the standardized procedure with in situ performance data. The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) was the first to develop standardized methods to compare fenestration system performance with respect to the formation of condensation. Following this, the NFRC developed its own procedure for developing condensation resistance values. The AAMA test method involves laboratory testing, while the NFRC method involves computer simulation. Both methods provide a rating system to enable relative ease in performance comparison between similar fenestration products. The ratings are based on standardized conditions (i.e., fenestration size and shape, fenestration surround, and environmental conditions) that do not account for the in situ conditions and therefore may not accurately predict actual performance. Recent literature has discussed the limitations of condensation resistance ratings relative to as-built conditions that can impact the formation of condensation on a fenestration system. For example, (1) installing spandrel panel insulation, although necessary to improve the thermal performance of a curtain wall, can lower surface temperatures of adjacent framing members; (2) existing interior blinds or drapery act as an insulator, which can cause the framing members to be colder; and (3) if the fenestration’s thermal break is not aligned with the wall’s insulation, the framing members can be subject to colder temperatures. This paper will focus on the NFRC rating procedure and examine a case study to demonstrate the differences between NFRC ratings, simulated surface temperatures using THERM and WINDOW computer software, and in situ measurements of a high-rise office building curtain wall. The case study will provide a representative illustration of how actual conditions can impact the fenestration product’s in situ condensation resistance and provide insight on the condensation resistance of a representative curtain wall system.

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citations
The total number of citations received by all articles of the researcher of interest.
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
1
Average
Average
Average
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