2025-02-14    95

Thermal Challenges in Steel Structure Buildings

1. Rapid Heat Absorption & Transfer
   Metal cladding absorbs solar radiation, transferring heat to interior spaces through thermal conduction.

2. Building Opening Analysis
   Requires evaluation of:

• Window/door dimensions
• Opening frequency patterns
• Air infiltration/exfiltration rates

3. Heat Source Assessment

• Identify process equipment thermal loads
• Adjust ventilation requirements based on heat output:
  Ventilation Volume ∝ Heat Generation Rate

4. Spatial Configuration
   Map:

• Equipment layout
• Personnel distribution
• Zonal occupancy patterns

Integrated Cooling Strategies

Option 1: Exhaust System + Evaporative Cooling

• Implementation:
• Install exhaust fans on leeward side
• Deploy evaporative coolers (28°C/82°F supply air) on windward side
• Performance:
• 4-15°C (7-27°F) temperature reduction
• 3-5°C (5-9°F) perceived cooling effect

Option 2: Exhaust + HVLS Fan System

• Configuration:
• Perimeter exhaust fans
• Central HVLS (High Volume Low Speed) fans (Ø7.3m+)
• Benefits:
• Air velocity: 0.5-2.5 m/s adjustable
• 40-70% energy savings vs conventional systems

Option 3: Hybrid Approach

Combines:

1. Cross-ventilation exhaust
2. Evaporative air cooling
3. HVLS air circulation
   Efficiency Gain: 25-40% over single-system solutions

Cost-Effective Cooling Paradigms

1. Whole-Building Cooling

Best For:

• High-density occupancy (≥0.5 persons/m²)
• Large footprints (>5,000m²)
• Multi-source heat generation

System Components:

Performance Metrics:

• 1-3 ACH (Air Changes per Hour)
• 30-50% humidity control
• <5 minute whole-facility air replacement

2. Zoned Spot Cooling

Optimal When:

• Low occupancy density (<0.2 persons/m²)
• Intermittent workstation usage
• Partial storage/assembly areas

Implementation:

• Directed airflow to active workstations
• 40-60% reduced capital expenditure vs whole-building systems
• Typical ROI: 18-24 months

3. Smart Fan Integration

Synergistic System:

• HVLS Fans (≥4m mounting height)
• Evaporative Coolers
• IoT-enabled controls

Technical Advantages:

• 25-30% reduced ductwork requirements
• Dynamic airflow optimization through:
• Thermal zoning
• Occupancy sensors
• Real-time temperature mapping

Economic & Regulatory Considerations

1. Energy Compliance:
• Meets ASHRAE 90.1-2023 standards
• 30-50% lower kW/ton vs conventional AC
2. Safety Protocols:
• OSHA 29 CFR 1910.94 ventilation requirements
• NEC Article 110.26 clearance standards
3. Cost Analysis:

   System Type	Installed Cost ($/m²)	Operational Cost ($/m²/yr)
   Hybrid	35-45	2.8-3.5
   Spot Cooling	18-25	1.2-1.8

This comprehensive approach enables 15-30% productivity improvement through thermal management while maintaining 20-40% energy cost savings versus traditional HVAC solutions.

This translation maintains technical accuracy while adapting measurements, standards, and terminology for North American engineering professionals. Let me know if you need specific sections expanded or modified for particular regional requirements.