Aldes ME pushes for use of Computational Fluid Dynamic analysis to help in selection and arrangement process of air diffusers in ME buildings

27 October 2013 - Implementing Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) analyses across the Middle East region's current and ongoing construction and development projects can play a major role in the proper selection and arrangement process of air diffusers, according to Aldes Middle East, a leading global solutions provider for fire protection, ventilation and air distribution and the local arm of Aldes Group. CFD analysis, which is used to effectively simulate the fluid flow and heat flow in a defined zone, makes use of finite element method using computer assisted calculations are performed using given data to describe the fluid flow.

Although widely used in both the aeronautical and automotive industry, CFD analysis is now also being used in the construction segment to verify and choose air diffusion systems. According to Aldes ME senior executives, today's construction projects have seen the importance of installing high quality Air Handling Units, however, when it comes to the air diffusion in the building, the design does not even match basic requirements for comfort. Inadequate sizing and selection can result in uneven temperatures within the building; discomfort in the occupied areas and over loading of the Air handling Unit itself. To avoid these issues, a CFD analysis will greatly help in trying to find out the best system to install and also where to install it.

“The Middle East's construction industry is heavy with activity, which is ably reflected in the high number of projects that are currently ongoing. With the region's warm climate, a lot of consideration has to be made in the installation of proper air diffusion systems across these projects,” said Gaëtan Pierrefeu, Managing Director, Aldes Middle East FZE. “There are three key points to remember in selecting an air diffuser--the length of air throw; terminal velocity in the occupied space and the sound power level. A designated Aldes team works closely with any project's construction team to help select the right diffusers according to design constraints, building characteristics and project constraints. To date, we have performed several CFD analyses for prestigious projects in the region and have helped them in experiencing premier thermal comfort in their buildings.” 

CFD analysis is a four-phase process that uses numerical methods and algorithms to solve and analyze problems that involve fluid flows. The first phase of the CFD process involves the setting of a defined zone with known parameters in terms of airflow and temperatures. This is followed by determining the aeraulic and thermal limits of the area being analyzed. The third stage of the analysis is the analysis of the air outlets and understanding the type of air flow pattern for the area. The last part is to check on the positions of the supply and exhaust diffusers, which is critical for the study.