Use of computational fluid dynamics to aid studies of room air distribution: a review of some recent work

Computational fluid dynamics has a wide range of application in the study of room air distribution. The application is providing valuable guidance for those interested in such areas as comfort, productivity and sick building syndrome. This paper gives a comparative review of some of the work undertaken in the field and highlights some of the modelling assumptions noted within the literature. It is apparent from the review that the use of the CFD methodology is helping to develop our understanding of internal ventilation flows, yet it is also apparent that many investigations are currently employing modelling assumptions that will hinder the development of generic guidance from such investigations.