An experimental and numerical study on the effect of air terminal layout on the performance of stratum ventilation

This study aims to the investigate effects of the air terminal layout on the performance of stratum ventilation. Experimental and numerical approaches were both applied. Six indices were used to evaluate the air distribution performance. A total of three air terminal layouts were investigated. The experimental results indicate that the exhaust location and the supply airflow rate can affect the air diffusion performance. In the simulated cases, the effects of the exhaust location on the thermal comfort and indoor air quality can be observed. It was found that having the exhausts located at the bottom of the wall helped with air mixing in the occupied zone. Thermal comfort and good air quality can be achieved with exhausts located at a lower level along the same wall as the supplies. This arrangement also helps to save space for system installation. Therefore, it is a better choice for stratum ventilation design if the performance requirements are met. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd.