THERMAL COMFORT SIMULATION OF NATURALLY VENTILATED CLASSROOMS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

Almost all secondary schools in Singapore are naturally ventilated to reap energy-economic benefits. In other words, nearly all of these schools are equipped with operable windows that remain open during occupied hours for ventilation. These openings, however, allow solar radiation to penetrate space and cause excessive heat gain. This can increase the indoor air temperature, cause thermal discomfort and lead to declining productivity and well-being. Even with the provision of mechanical cooling devices such as fans to offer air circulation and a cooler environment, the thermal comfort of the students in Singapore remains in question. This study sets out to assess the thermal comfort levels of a typical secondary school classroom in Singapore using the BCA Green Mark PMV model for Non-Residential Buildings and evaluate the effectiveness of a particular shading device known as louvres, at reducing the indoor air temperature through a parametric study conducted using DesignBuilder. It will additionally examine the effects of various louvre design parameters such as spacing, depth and angle to recommend an optimal louvre design for facade facing different orientations.