AIR-CONDITIONING ENGINEERING

Modelling and Optimization for Strategic Building Designfor Air-Conditioning

System of aSingle-storyCommercial Building in the Philippines
J. Lacida, J. Pao, G. Macas, R. Agopitac

Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering and Technology
Mindanao State University Iligan Institute of Technology, Tibanga, Iligan City, 9200, Philippines

Executive Summary
Typical commercial building in the Philippines utilizes air-conditioning unit mainly to provide comfort for
both the customers and employees operating within the building. However in most cases, installation of HVAC
systems in commercial building is done prior to calculation for determining the optimum HVAC system for the site.
Because of this, problems then occur during normal operating hours when thermal comfort isn’t achieve due to
insufficient or improper sizing of air-conditioning equipment.
These are the objectives of this paper:
 Evaluate site data, conduct thermal comfort survey and estimate cooling load using software
 Research appropriate standards applicable for the building case study.
 Develop a model of building case study.
 Simulate using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and compare values obtained in site evaluation
for verification of the model.
 Optimization through right equipment selection or building fixture orientations.
 Come up with an overall ideal design for local conditions.

Numerous studies have been conducted for the design of an air conditioning and ventilation system. Among
this is the proposed design of air conditioning and ventilation system for a multi-story office building done by
Prasanthi G. and Sireesharevathi .D. Other related studies are from Wan Iman Wan Nazi which uses Design Builder
software that is the most complete Graphical User Interface to the Energy Plus simulation engine (from US DOE). In
2014, a really similar study but was more focused on thermal comfort rather than the design was carried out by
Simons, B., et al. They employed the Fanger-based approach, which is alternatively known as the heat-balance
approach and used PMV-PPD model for thermal comfort. These related studies are used in this paper because they
are concise and direct. Methods employed by these researchers are used as basis and are utilized again in combination
with the other to provide a better result.
A medium sized single story retail commercial building was taken as a building case study. It is located in
Tibanga, Iligan City, Philippines, and experiencing mostly hot and humid weather throughout the year. The building’s
first floor gross area is about 222.0 m2 with 10 employees and light customers during normal operation. The building
consists of the retail area and a storage area filled with surplus products only accessible by employees. The store area
and the pharmacy/executive area were divided by an internal partition with a huge aperture from which customers and
employees interact and transact. The building’s air conditioning unit is served by 3 LG - TPNC50BTLA4 floor
standing air-conditioning unit with one being not operational. The establishment has built-in centralized air-
conditioning system but for some reason they have abandoned it and do not use it anymore.

Building Details: For the roof or ceiling construction, the building has light coloured flat roof of 220 m2
areawith surface mounted fluorescent and bulb lights, and ceiling height of 3 meters from the floor. North and south
facing walls are heavy concrete walls with surface finish and have the same area of51 m2. East facing wall is also
made of heavy concrete wall with surface finishof38.46 m2 area. West facing wall is where the glass door and
window located. The wall is made of heavyweight concrete with surface finish and has an area of 38.46 m2.Pair of
hinged glass door has an area of 4.14 m2 and glass window area of 7.48 m2. Floor has a total area of 217.94 m2 with
tiles (see Chapter 4 for the complete building details).
 Subjective measurements (using PMV thermal comfort questionnaire set by Standard 55) and objective data
were recorded during the field study period. Selected points (10 test points) inside the building were chosen as test
points from where the objective data are measured. The objective data were measured using available equipments in
the Mechanical Engineering lab as well as a DIY globe thermometer. The equipments used during the study are the
Digital Anemometer and the Hygrometer 3000. Data gathered on various points within the building were determined
as suggested by Standard 55 i.e. using knees and head level as local test areas within that particular point. Dry-bulb
temperature and relative humidity were determined using the Hygrometer 3000. Air speed is evaluated using the
Digital Anemometer and were taken in the direction of the airflow from the air-conditioning unit. The globe
temperature on the other hand, is taken using the DIY globe thermometer developed together with other groups. All
of these parameters were taken at the same time during the field study. Equipment data, equipment operation
schedule, indoor thermal condition measurements, global position, time zone and data for Philippine local setting
were gathered and loaded in the software. Some values are assumed according to the set standards by the
ASHREA/ANSI.
In all, 26 occupants within the store area participated in the study. The respondents were both customers and
employees. The respondents were asked regarding how comfortable the air conditioning inside the store is according
to the PMV comfort scale of -3 to +3, as well as their type of clothing are asked, the results were tallied in a paper.
This was done to evaluate how the occupants feel within the point they were standing within the building. As part of
the survey, we then determined what kind clothing they are wearing as well as their level of activity as recommended
in ISO 7730. The results were then recorded and will be used for model verification. A model of the building case
study was developed using Design Builder software version 4.2.0.034. Design Builder software is the most complete
Graphical User Interface to the Energy Plus simulation engine (from US DOE). It provides easy to use software and a
high quality data on energy consumption, carbon emissions, occupant comfort, and daylight availability. The software
also offers CFD analysis that provides air temperature contours as well as PMV contours. The CFD results will be
used to compare the actual data gathered during the field study for the verification of the building model.
Summary of field results are gathered for various points within the building using knees and head level as
local test areas for ten particular points with corresponding relative humidity, dry bulb and globe temperatures. The
results show that the Dry-Bulb temperature at various points selected within the building ranges between 23 - 29˚C
with a mean of 25.066˚C. The average value falls within the recommended thermal comfort of the ASHREA. Air
velocity within each point inside the building was measured to be about 0 m/s with exceptions only in points closer or
adjacent to the air conditioning unit. Relative humidity is uniform throughout the building ranging between 45-55%
when taken at knees level and head level at different points. As for the globe temperature, the values are constant at
each point throughout the building (see Chapter 5 for results and discussion).
For the cooling load estimate of the building, the cooling load of the building is calculated using the software
Design Builder version 4.2.0.034. The operative temperature was set as the control temperature in order to account
for the varying conditions. The operative temperature set-point was set at 26.22°C which is the average of the
measured indoor operative temperature during the field measurements. The maximum calculated value of the cooling
load (Figure 5.6) for the Sales Area (Zone 3) is about 12.73 kW. Sensible and Latent Heat gains were 2.88 kW and
9.84 kW respectively. These values for the maximum cooling load were taken during May 08:30 in the morning. This
implies that during the morning or during initial operating hours, the air conditioning unit has its critical load. This
can be explained using the fact that heat gained during the whole night, when air conditioning unit isn’t working, gets
accumulated leaving the initial operating hours to have the most heat load.
Upon researching the floor type air-conditioning unit they use for the Sales Area (Zone 3), it was found out
that the cooling capacity of the unit was 36,000 BTU/hr or about 10.55kW. A significant difference between the
estimated cooling load against the cooling capacity of the air conditioning unit is observed. For only one air
conditioning unit operational in the sales area, the air conditioning unit is therefore inadequate for delivering comfort
during elevated heat loads. An addition of another air-conditioning unit is suggested to achieve thermal comfort.

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In order to achieve thermal comfort, a decision for operative temperature must be done to be applied for the
optimized design. According to the ASHREA, the standard thermal comfort temperature zones is between 22°C and
24°C. In the obtained results from the PMV calculations and thermal survey, choosing a lower operating temperature
means a slightly uncomfortable thermal sensation for the occupants. So, a compromise between the two should serve
as a basis for the design’s operating temperature. A 24°C was chosen, since this value is within range for the
ASHRAE standard and also is within the neutral range of the operating temperature from the Actual mean vote. A
calculation for the cooling load using an operative temperature of 24 °C was conducted and the results were slightly
off as compared to during the 26.22 °C operative temperature cases. The cooling load for Zone 3 was 12.56 kW with
2.77 kW sensible and 9.79 kW latent. These results further reiterates the fact that the single air-conditioning unit
operating in the sales area is insufficient for the demand. As for the cooling load in the pharmacy/executive area the
single unit within that area should be enough for the cooling demand within the area.
Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulation has been conducted for the study using the software Design
Builder. The simulation obtained was a product of multiple CFD simulations errors which was improved in every
iteration to get the desired results (see Chapter 4.4 for results in CFD simulation of the building). The obtained CFD
simulations are only applicable for the building model created in the software. To relate this to the actual
measurements and to safely say that the model can be used for optimization, the CFD simulations must be compared
to the actual measured values. Most of the calculated mean radiant temperature coincides with the mean radiant
temperature from the CFD. Seeing most of the mean radiant temperature from the CFD coincides with the calculated
mean radiant temperature having some tolerable deviations, the software model was deemed to be satisfactory.
The study made use of PMV model developed by Fanger. It was used to predict the thermal comfort of the
commercial building case study. From the analysis, it was observed that the calculated PMV ranges between 0.8 and
1. This coincides with a thermal scale of “slightly warm” indicating that thermal comfort inside the establishment
isn’t achieved. Although this may be what the PMV model predicts, the subjective data or the actual mean vote says a
different thing. Comparing both results, it was found out that the PMV model over predicts the actual mean vote
(subjective survey). Analysis of the acquired measured values and through various research led to the conclusion that
the air-conditioning equipment they use for cooling the sales area (Zone 3) is insufficient in improving thermal
conditions when peak load is achieved. A model of the building was developed using Design Builder software to
establish a foundation upon where to optimize the thermal conditions within the building being considered as case
study. A CFD was conducted and then validated through field measurements previously acquired.
Among the main problem as to why the thermal condition inside the building doesn’t comply with the
ASHREA/ANSI/SIAGE is because of insufficient equipment. The floor type air-conditioning unit they use only has a
cooling capacity of about 36,000 BTU/hr or about 10.55kW.As can be seen from the cooling load estimation, during
1 P.M., when the field study was conducted, the Sales area (Zone 3) has a cooling load of 9.58 kW. This is when
outside conditions is at 32.40 °C dry bulb temperature and 71.2% relative humidity. Going along with the software’s
site data, it was observed that outside conditions peaks during 3 P.M. In order to improve thermal conditions and
comply with the standards set by reputable institutions, placing or installing another air-conditioning unit is therefore
advisable.
Thus a proposed layout for internal fixtures (see Chapter 7: Recommendations) as well as an additional air
conditioning unit was simulated using CFD. The proposed design from figures 6.1 and 6.2 improved the thermal
conditions of the building from an average of 25-26°C to 24-25°C. The operative temperature from figures 6.3 and
6.4 had an average of 24 - 25°C which is well within the suggested ASHREA standard. And as was discussed
previously, a second LG split type floor standing air conditioning unit was decided to be added to the building to
supplement the load of the primary air-conditioning unit.
Jephune Lacida Rey Daryl Agopitac
Tel: +639278032122 Tel: +639061900405
E-mail address: adical_jephunneh@live..com E-mail address:rdreydaryl@gmail.com

Jeanette Pao Gab Macas

Tel: +639057434095 Tel: +639308304312
E-mail address:jeanettepao@gmail.com E-mail address: gabmacas@gmail.com

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 AIR-CONDITIONING ENGINEERING

Modelling and Optimization for Strategic Building Design for the Air-Conditioning System of
a Single-story Commercial Building in the Philippines
J. Lacida, J. Pao, G. Macas, R. Agopitac

Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering and Technology
Mindanao State University Iligan Institute of Technology, Tibanga, Iligan City, 9200, Philippines

Abstract
A medium sized single story retail commercial building was taken as a building case study. It is located in Tibanga, Iligan
City, Philippines, and experiencing mostly hot and humid weather throughout the year. The building’s first floor gross area is about
222.0 m2 with 10 employees and light customers during normal operation. The study made use of PMV model developed by Fanger.
It was used to predict the thermal comfort of the commercial building case study. Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulation
has been conducted for the study using the software Design Builder. The simulation obtained was a product of multiple CFD
simulations errors which was improved in every iteration to get the desired results. The study made use of PMV model developed by
Fanger. It was used to predict the thermal comfort of the commercial building case study. In order to improve thermal conditions
and comply with the standards set by reputable institutions, placing or installing another air-conditioning unit is therefore advisable.
And proposed layout for internal fixtures as well as an additional air conditioning unit was simulated using CFD that will meet the
suggested ASHREA standard for air conditioning systems of commercial buildings.
+
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ……………………………………………………………………………………………….................2
Climates in the Philippines………………………………….……………………................................……......2
Existing Buildings in the Philippines…...………………………………………................................................3
Air conditioning Load Estimate ……………………………………………………………………..................3
Cooling Load and Heat Gain ……………………………………………………………………………….......3
Thermal Comfort ……………………………………………………………………….....................................3
PMV Model ………................………………………………………………………….....................................4
2. Literature Review………..………………………………………………………………………………...................5
3. Building Case Study………..………………………………………………………………………………...............6
Building Details........………………………………………………………………………………………........6
4. Methodology …………………………………………………………………………………………........................7
Experimental Design ………………………………………………………………...........................................7
Participants in the Study ………………………………………………………………......................................8
Objective Data ……………………………………………………………….....................................................8
Building’s Software Modelling ………………………………………………………………..........................8
5. Results and Discussions……………………………………………………………....................................................9
Outdoor Conditions …………………………………………………………………….....................................9
Indoor Measurement Results and Survey Responses…………………………………………..........................9
PMV Model ……………………………………………………………………...............................................10
Predicted Mean Vote and Actual Mean Vote Correlation………………..........................................................11
Correlation between Operating Temperature and AMV ……………………………........................................12
Evaluation of Environmental Factors …………………………………………………....................................13
Cooling Load Estimate ……………………………………………………………………..............................13
Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation…………………………………………………….......................14
CFD Validation ……………………………………………………………………..........................................15
6. Conclusion …………………………………………………………….......................................................................16
7. Recommendation…………………………………………………………………………..........................................17
8. References …………………………………………………………….......................................................................18
Jephune Lacida Rey Daryl Agopitac
Tel: +639278032122 Tel: +639061900405
E-mail address: adical_jephunneh@live..com E-mail address:rdreydaryl@gmail.com

Jeanette Pao Gab Macas

Tel: +639057434095 Tel: +639308304312
E-mail address:jeanettepao@gmail.com E-mail address: gabmacas@gmail.com
1. Introduction 1.1 Climates in the Philippines

Typical commercial building in the Philippines The Philippines has five types of climates: tropical
utilizes air-conditioning unit mainly for thermal comfort to rainforest, tropical savanna, tropical monsoon, humid
provide comfort for both the customers and employees subtropical, and oceanic (both are in higher-altitude areas)
operating within the building. However in most cases, characterized by relatively high temperature, oppressive
installation of HVAC systems in commercial building is humidity and plenty of rainfall.
done prior to calculation for determining the optimum
HVAC system for the site. Because of this, problems then
occur during normal operating hours when thermal comfort
isn’t achieve due to insufficient or improper sizing of air-
conditioning equipment.

Another problem in commercial buildings

involving HVAC systems in the Philippines is the huge
deviation of it from the standard set by reputable institutions
such as the ASHREA and International Organization for
Standardization (ISO). This is mainly due to lack of
exposure of individuals working in the field. Regardless, it
is important to assess first the local conditions of the Figure 1.1: Manila, Luzon Monthly Climate
building before designing the HVAC system for a certain
building.

In average, a commercial building has an

operating hours of about 10-15 working hours per day. This
means that the conditioning system stays at work
throughout the whole operation to maintain comfort
consuming a large amount of energy. In addition to that,
some air conditioning and ventilation system provides
problems that cause health risks and property damage such
as condensate issues.With this in mind, it is therefore
necessary to design efficient Ventilation and Air-
Conditioning system thatprovides a comfortable Figure 1.2: Mactan, Cebu Monthly Climate
environment for commercial building suitable for the local
conditions in the Philippines.

Basic requirements for a comfortable indoor

environment of commercial building includes maintained
thermal conditions and ample outside air ventilation.Since
the thermally controlled space also contains common
products from the market that sits there for a while, it is
suggested to have an indoor temperature at typical
comfortable room temperature. Room temperature is taken
to be about 20 to 25 degrees Celsius with an average of 23
°C. Additionally, relative humidity must be kept in check so
as to avoid growth of molds or any other micro-organism
within the space.An indoor temperature of about 23°C and Figure 1.3: Zamboanga, Mindanao Monthly Climate
50% relative humidity is perceived to be comfortable for the
occupants and is the industry standard. Minimum The average year-round temperature measured
ventilation rate of about 10 L/s per person is suggested by from all the weather stations in the Philippines, except
the ASHRAE Standard 62.1–2013. Baguio City, is 26.6 °C (79.9 °F). Cooler days are usually
felt in the month of January with temperature averaging at
Designing a Ventilation and Air-Conditioning 25.5 °C (77.9 °F) and the warmest days, in the month of
system for Philippine commercial buildings requires May with a mean of 28.3 °C (82.9 °F).
knowledge for which the system will operate into. In
addition to that, it is also important to take into account the
amount ofloads that system will normally operate. 1.2 Existing buildings in the Philippines

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 Usual practice among small commercial buildings
in the Philippines is the use of Floor Mounted Split Type
Air-conditioning unit. Although some of these air-
conditioning units provide excellent cooling effect, the main
problem for most of this kind of air conditioning is that it
takes up space in the building area and the distribution of
cold air is lopsided.Other types that are commonly used are:
1. Window type air conditioner
2. Split type air conditioner
3.Central air conditioner
Best practice for medium to large commercial building is
the use of central air conditioning and ventilation system for
a more uniform thermal distribution.
1.3 Air conditioning Load Estimate
The air conditioning load is estimated to provide
the basis for selecting the conditioning equipment. It must
take into account the heat coming into the space from
outdoor on a design day, as well as heat being generated
within the space. A design day is defined as:
1 A time on which the dry and wet bulb temperatures are
peaking simultaneously,
2. All of the internal loads are normal
3.The air vapor pressure – a higher vapor pressure
surrounding conditioned space causes water vapor to flow
thru the building materials.
4. Outdoor air usually required for ventilation purposes –
outdoor air is usually necessary to flush out the space and
keep the odor level down.
1.4 Cooling Load and Heat Gain
When an HVAC system is operating, the rate at
which it removes heat from a space is the instantaneous heat
extraction rate for that space. Cooling load calculations may
be used to provide information for equipment selection,
system sizing and system design, provide data for
evaluating the optimum possibilities for load reduction and
permit analysis of partial loads as required for system
design, operation and control.
Heat gain is the heat transferred through the
building envelope (walls, roof, floor, windows, doors etc.)
and heat generated by occupants, equipment, and lights. The
load due to heat transfer through the envelope is called as
external load, while all other loads are called as internal
loads. The percentage of external versus internal load varies
with building type, site climate, and building design. The
total cooling load on any building consists of both sensible
as well as latent load components.
Figure 1.1: Sources of heat gain
Cooling loads result from heat transfer processes through
the building envelope (externalelements) and from internal
sources and system components.
 External: Walls, roofs, windows, partitions,
ceiling, and floor
 Internal: Lighting, people, machinery
 Infiltration: Air leakage and moisture migration
1.4.1 Cooling Load Calculation Methods
For a thorough calculation of the zones and whole-
building loads, one of the following three methods should
be employed by ASHRAE Handbook Fundamentals, 2001:
a. Transfer Function Method (TFM): This is the most
complex of the methods proposed by ASHRAE andrequires
the use of a computer program or advanced spreadsheet.
b. Cooling Load Temperature Differential/Solar Cooling
Load/ Cooling Load Factors (CLTD/SCL/CLF): This
method is derived from the TFM method and uses tabulated
data to simplify the calculation process.
c. Heat Balance Method (HB): This is a method in which
the calculation procedures and scientific principles are
explainedin equation format. These equations are coded in a
generic computer program named Hbfort and linked to a
user interface program to allow input and output in either
inch-pound or SI units.
d. The Radiant Time Series Method (RTSM): The RTSM is
derived directly from the HBM and effectively replaced all
other simplified methods.
1.5 Thermal comfort
Thermal comfort is very important for building
design and individuals. Maintaining this standard of thermal
comfort for occupants of buildings or other enclosures is
one of the important goals of HVAC (heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning) design. For commercial buildings,
thermal comfort for employees and customers, as well as
the products inside the building should be stored and
maintained at low temperatures. In the Philippines, air
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conditioning units are utilized mainly for thermal comfort
because of the warm and humid environment of the country.
Factors Affecting Human Comfort
 Dry-bulb temperature
 Humidity
 Air movement
 Fresh air
 Clean air
 Noise level
 Adequate lighting
 Proper furniture and work surfaces
Thermal comfort depends on creating an environment of
dry-bulb temperature, humidity, and air motion that is
appropriate for the activity level of the peoplein the space.
This environment allows the body’s rate of heat generation
tobalance with the body’s rate of heat loss.
1.5.1 Metabolic Rate
People have different metabolic rates that can
fluctuate due to activity level and environmental conditions.
The ASHRAE 55-2010 Standard defines metabolic rate as
the level of transformation of chemical energy into heat and
mechanical work by metabolic activities within an
organism, usually expressed in terms of unit area of the total
body surface. ASHRAE Standard 55 provides a table of met
rates for a variety of activities. Some common values are
0.7 met for sleeping, 1.0 met for a seated and quiet position,
1.2-1.4 met for light activities standing, 2.0 met or more for
activities that involve movement, walking, lifting heavy
loads or operating machinery.
1.5.2 Clothing Insulation
The amount of thermal insulation worn by a
person has a substantial impact on thermal comfort, because
it influences the heat loss and consequently the thermal
balance. Layers of insulating clothing prevent heat loss and
can either help keep a person warm or lead to overheating.
Generally, the thicker the garment is the greater insulating
ability it has. Depending on the type of material the clothing
is made out of, air movement and relative humidity can
decrease the insulating ability of the material. 1 clo is equal
to 0.155 m²·K/W (0.88 °F·ft²·h/Btu). This corresponds to
trousers, a long sleeved shirt, and a jacket. Clothing
insulation values for other common ensembles or single
garments can be found in ASHRAE 55.
1.5.3 Air Temperature
The air temperature is the average temperature of
the air surrounding the occupant, with respect to location
and time. According to ASHRAE 55 standard, the spatial
average takes into account the ankle, waist and head levels,
which vary for seated or standing occupants. The temporal
average is based on three minutes intervals with at least 18
equally spaced points in time. Air temperature is measured
with a dry-bulb thermometer and for this reason it is also
known as dry-bulb temperature.
1.5.4 Air Speed
According to ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55, it is
the average speed of the air to which the body is exposed,
with respect to location and time. The temporal average is
the same as the air temperature, while the spatial average is
based on the assumption that the body is exposed to a
uniform air speed. However, some spaces might provide
strongly non-uniform air velocity fields and consequent skin
heat losses that cannot be considered uniform. Therefore,
the designer shall decide the proper averaging, especially
including air speeds incident on unclothed body parts that
have greater cooling effect and potential for local
discomfort.
1.5.5 Mean Radiant Temperature
The radiant temperature is related to the amount of
radiant heat transferred from a surface, and it depends on
the material’s ability to absorb or emit heat, or
its emissivity. The mean radiant temperature depends on the
temperatures and emissivity of the surrounding surfaces as
well as the view factor, or the amount of the surface that is
“seen” by the object. So the mean radiant temperature
experienced by a person in a room with the sunlight
streaming in varies based on how much of his/her body is in
the sun.
1.6PMV Model
The PMV model developed by Fanger is
established based on experiments in climate chambers using
heat-balance method and ultimately theorized into the
PMV-PPD model. It was developed around 1970s using
participants that are dressed in standardize clothing and
doing standardize level of activities. The participants are
surveyed as to what their sensation is using a thermal scale
which over the years developed into the 7 levels sensation
suggested by ASHREA. PMV is widely used by various
designers to evaluate the indoor thermal environment.
2. Literature Review
Numerous study have been conducted for the
design of anair conditioning and ventilation system
applicable for a certain building in place or country. Among
this is the proposed design of air conditioning and
ventilation system for a multi-story office building done by
Prasanthi G. and Sireesharevathi .D. In their design, they
accounted for all the outdoor load as well as the indoor load
of the building for an environment in which the building
normally operates. They then used these estimates to select
the right equipment i.e. Chillers, pump, secondary pump,
AHU for the design of an air conditioning and ventilation
system.
Wan Iman Wan Nazi et al. (2015) organized a
study about reducing cooling load in an Office Building in a
Tropical Country using Designer Builder software version
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4.2.0.034.Design Builder software is the most complete
Graphical User Interface to the Energy Plus simulation
engine (from US DOE). It provides easy to use software and
a high quality data on energy consumption, carbon Mercury Drug Store
emissions, occupant comfort, and daylight availability. By
utilizing the software, they were able to create numerical as
well as graphical presentations of various loads.
In 2014, a really similar study but was more
focused on thermal comfort rather than the design was
carried out by Simons, B., et al.Theyemployed the Fanger-
based approach, which is alternatively known as the heat-
balance approach, for a naturally ventilated building in
Ghana. They concluded that the PMV-PPD model Figure 3.2: The location of Mercury Drug store using
comfortably predicts thermal comfort in Mechanically google map
Ventilated Buildings than in Naturally Ventilated
Buildings.Other researchers also focused on the energy 3.1 Building Details
consumptions rates associated with a range of ventilation
The building’s first floor gross area is about 222.0
rates for a building in Singapore which is a tropical country
m2 with 10 employees and light customers during normal
like the Philippines. Rim D, Schiavon S, Nazaroff WW operation. The building consists of 4 zones: the store area
(2015) utilized psychometric processes and energy balance and retail area filled with surplus products, the sales area
to evaluate enthalpies and eventually cooling load of the and the pharmacy/ executive area that are divided by an
building every month. internal partition with a huge aperture from which
customers and employees interact and transact.The building
Other studies are present and innumerable but has glass door and windows with internal shading, lights,
these are chosen as highlights because they are concise and electrical outlets, equipments and products. It also has walls
direct. Methods employed by these researchers are used as made of concrete and a flat ceiling mounted with
basis and are utilized again in combination with the other to fluorescent and bulb lights.
provide for a better result.
Specific Building Details
Front Floor Door to Ceiling Window Door
Width Dimensions counter height Dimension Dimension
3. Building Case Study (m) (W x L) length (m) (W x H) (W x H)
(m)
A medium sized retail commercial building was 12.60 12.82 x 17 10 3 3.78 x 1.98 1.8 x 2.30
taken as a building case study. It is located in Tibanga,
Iligan City, Philippines experiencing mostly hot and humid
weather throughout the year. The building consists of the
retail area and a storage area filled with surplus products
only accessible by employees. Its air conditioning is served
by3 LG - TPNC50BTLA4 floor standing air-conditioning
unit with one being not operational. The establishment has
built-in centralized air-conditioning system but for some
reason they have abandoned it and do not use it anymore.
Pharmacy/ Executive Area

Door 2
Product Racks
AC

AC

Sales Area
Cashier
N
Design Builder
Front Door Software

Figure 3.1: The Mercury Drug store front view

Figure 3.3: Mercury Drug store building internal design
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Figure 3.4: Mercury Drug store lights location
Roof/ Ceiling construction
 light colored flat roof of 220 m2 area
 has surface mounted lights
 ceiling height is 3 meters from the floor
North and South facing wall construction
 concrete wall with surface finish
 heavyweight concrete
 both wallshave same area of51 m2
East facing wall construction
 concrete wall with surface finish
 heavyweight concrete
 wall has an area of 38.46 m2
West facing wall, window and door construction
 west facing wall is where the glass door and window
located
 heavyweight concrete wall with surface finish
 wall has an area of 38.46 m2
 door area is 4.14 m2
 glass window area is 7.48 m2
Floor and door construction
 floor has an area of 217.94 m2 with tiles
 pair of hinged glass door of area 4.14 m2
Occupancy
 10employees working from 8AM to 10PM
Lights
 59 fluorescents and 20 bulb lights. working 14 hours
daily
Equipment and appliances
 two computer equipments and appliances are usedin
the building
4. Methodology
The general methodology used for the evaluation,
research, optimization and design of HVAC system in local
commercial buildings in the Philippines is developed based
upon the previous research mentioned in the literature
review.Their methods are improved and then used again in
this paper. Cooling load analysis using software aid is used
to obtain estimate of the cooling load.The steps followed for
the paper are listed as follows:
1. Evaluate site data, conduct thermal comfort survey and
estimate cooling load using software
3. Research appropriate standards applicable for the
building case study.
4. Develop a model of building case study.
5. Simulate using CFD and compare values obtained in site
evaluation for verification of the model.
6. Optimization through right equipment selection or
building fixture orientations.
7. Come up with an overall design ideal for local
conditions.
4.1 Experimental Design
Data regarding the local weather was already
available in the Design builder software. Prior
experimentation of the sites local condition was done before
the actual day of the field study was conducted to gauge
how realistic the available local data from the software is
compared to the actual. Through 5 test experimentation
done at different time and day, it was concluded that the
data from the software closely resembles the obtained test
measurements. With this conclusion, it was decidedto use
the data from the software and then proceeded to conduct a
field study for validation.
The day in which the field study was conducted
was specifically chosen to have clear skies during its
operation. In addition, the data gathered during the field
study was expected to have to have similar outdoor
conditions to that of the already available local data
provided by the software Design Builder. This is done to
simplify the process due to the complexity of the building
and to get more realistic result. Through trial and error, a
field study was conducted on May 9, 2018 to evaluate and
determine the thermal comfort, thermal conditions as well
as estimate the cooling load of the building.
Subjective measurements (using PMV thermal
comfort questionnaire set byASHREA Standard 55 given in
the Appendix) and objective data were recorded during the
field study period. The building area was divided into 9
parts to act as a domain upon where the calculated PMV is
valid. A single point within that particular area was chosen
as test points from where the objective data is measured.
6|P a ge
 The objective data were measured using available
equipments in the Mechanical Engineering lab as well as a
DIY globe thermometer. The equipments used during the
study are the Digital Anemometer and the Hygrometer
3000. The DIY globe thermometers were a joint project
developed together with others groups so as just to get a
globe temperature parameter.
Datagathered on various points within the building
were determined as suggested by Standard 55 i.e. using
knees and head level as local test areas within that particular
point. Altogether, a total of 600data were measured and
acquired for the study.
Zone 4
Respondents of our direct survey were asked to
rate their thermal sensation according to the PMV seven
point scale. This was done to evaluate how the occupants
feel within the point they were standing within the
building.As part of the survey, we then determined what
kind clothing they are wearing as well as their level of
activity as recommended in ASHREA Standard 55. The
results were then recorded and will be used for model
verification.
4.3 Objective Data
Dry-bulb temperature and relative humidity were
determined using the Hygrometer 3000. Air speed is
evaluated using the Digital Anemometer and were taken in
the direction of the airflow from the air-conditioning unit.
The globe temperature on the other hand, is taken using the
DIY globe thermometer developed together with other
groups. All of these parameters were taken at the same time
during the field study.

4.4 Building’s Software Modeling

A model of the building case study was developed

using Design Builder software version 4.2.0.034. Design
Zone 3 Builder software is the most complete Graphical User
Interface to the Energy Plus simulation engine (from US
DOE).It provides easy to use software and a high quality
data on energy consumption, carbon emissions, occupant
comfort, and daylight availability.

The building’s software model was created using

the floor plan of the building obtained using manual
Figure 4.1: Test Points measurements and estimates of the building.An almost
exact replica was what was intended to achieve a more
accurate result.
4.2 Participants in the study

In all, 26 occupants within the store area

participated in the study. The respondents were both
customers and employees. The respondents were asked
regarding how comfortable the air conditioning inside the
store is according to the PMV comfort scale of -3 to +3 and
the results were tallied in a paper. We then proceeded to
answer the standard survey questionnaire set by ASHREA
Standard 55 ourselves. This is done to save time and to
uncomplicate the process since some of the questions can be
daunting to answer in the perspective of the respondent and
since most of the question can be readily answered by the
researchers.

PMV thermal sensation scale Figure 4.2: The location of the Sun and the orientation of
the building at 13:00hr solar time (month of May)
-3 -2 -1 0 +1 +2 +3
Cold Cool Slightly Neutral Slightly Warm Hot
Cool Warm

7|P a ge
 The store area and the pharmacy/executive area building model.
were divided by an internal partition with a huge aperture
from which customers and employees interact and transact.
For the building model, this was modeled by placing a hole
5. Results and Discussion
from the internal partition separating both the goods area
(Zone 3) and the pharmacy/executive area (Zone 4).The The results of the study are presented. They
store’s goods rack was modeled using vertical blocks to provide clues on the thermal comfort levels in the studied
simulate blockage of the airflow. Other fixtures within the area.
store were modeled by using the same technique.
5.1 Outdoor conditions
Equipment data, equipment operation schedule, Outdoor dry bulb temperatures were taken to be at
indoor thermal condition measurements, global position, 32.4˚C at May 9, 2018 1 pm (13:00 GMT+8). Relative
time zone anddata for Philippine local setting were gathered humidity registers at 71.2%. These values are then
and loaded in the software.Some values are assumed compared to the weather data provided by Design Builder to
according to the set standards by the ASHREA/ANSI. assess whether the weather data provided by the software is
valid.
PMV calculation is also integrated in the software
and was used to calculate the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV).
The software also offers CFD analysis that provides air 5.2 Indoor measurements results and survey responses
temperature contours as well as PMV contours. TheCFD Figure 4.1 shows the location of the test points
results was used and then compared to the actual data within the building using knees and head levels for each test
gathered during the field studyfor the verification of the point.
Table 5.1: Summary of Field Study Results
Points Level RH (%) DBT AV Globe
(°C) (m/s) temperature
1 Knees 45.08 28.72 0 28
Head 45.3 28.74 0 27.8
2 Knees 46.08 25.3 0 27
Head 45.9 25.56 0 27
3 Knees 49.36 24.3 0 27
Head 49.26 25.4 0.1 27
4 Knees 52.32 25.5 0 27
Head 51.94 25.72 0 27
5 Knees 50.22 24.72 0 27.2
Head 50.14 25.74 0 27.2
6 Knees 52.32 24.14 0 27.6
Head 52.38 25.96 0 27.6
7 Knees 54.6 25.4 0 27.8
Head 53.98 26.74 0 27.8
8 Knees 51.98 25.02 0 25
Head 47.68 18.68 2.06 20.6
9 Knees 53.4 24.44 0 27.6
Head 53.4 24.64 0 27.5
10 Knees 51.12 24.36 0 27.4
Head 52.74 23.48 0 27.5

Table 5.1 tabulates the average of each parameter

from the point where it is taken. The results show that the
Dry-Bulb temperature at various points selected within the
building ranges between 23 - 29˚C with a mean of
25.066˚C. Some areas within the building, however,
registered a Dry-bulb temperature of about 28-29 ˚Cwhich
is a slight deviation to most of the measured values.

Air velocity within each point inside the building

was measured to be about 0 m/swith exceptions only in
points closer or adjacent to the air conditioning unit.
Although the value suggests that no air movement is
present, this doesn’t mean that no airflow is actually
8|P a ge
 present. Air movement within the points that registered 0
m/s may be too minute for the anemometer equipment to
detect. According to Standard 55 section 5.3.3.2, for a non-
residential building where air temperature is greater than or
equal to 25.5 ˚C the limit for air velocity should not exceed
0.8 m/s. On the other hand, air temperatures less than or
equal to 22.5˚C should not have more than 0.15 m/s. The
value measured falls within the acceptable range of the set
standard except only for the points where the Air
conditioning unit is near.
corresponding numbers of persons who worn the
categorized clothing. Their location within the building
where recorded in a separate paper.
The mean radiant temperature is a parameter for
the PMV equation as well as the operative equation. Since it
is intended to evaluate the thermal comfort inside the
building, the mean radiant temperature is calculated.
According to the ASHREA Handbook 2013, the mean
radiant temperature can be calculated using:

Relative humidity is uniform throughout the

building ranging between 45-55% when taken at knees level
and head level at different points. As for the globe
temperature, the values are constant at each point
throughout the building.

Table 5.2: PMV Survey Results

Cold (-3) 0
Cool (-2) 1
Slightly cool (-1) 5
Neutral (0) 15 For the DIY globe thermometer, the value of its diameter was
Slightly Warm (1) 4 measured to be about 5.9 inches or 0.15 m. The equation was
Warm (2) 1 used and the results were tabulated.
Hot (3) 0
Table 5.4: Mean Radiant Temperature (Calculated)
Points Head Knees
Table 5.3: PMV Survey Results (With Clothing) 1 27.8 28
item of clothing no. of 2 27 27
persons 3 27.916094 27
Cold (-3) 0 4 27 27
Cool (-2) Short-Sleeve shirt 1 5 27.2 27.2
6 27.6 27.6
Short-Sleeve shirt, Shorts, Sandals 1
7 27.8 27.8
Slightly cool (-1) Thin T-shirt, Shorts, Sandals 3
8 27.583333 25
Dress and Sandals 1
9 27.5 27.6
10 27.5 27.4
Short-Sleeve shirt, Shorts, Shoes 2
T-shirt, Shorts, Sandals 4
T-shirt, Shorts, Shoes and Socks 2 5.3 PMV Model
Neutral (0) T-shirt, Pants, Sandals 1
T-shirt, skirt, Shoes and Socks 1 The PMV model developed by Fanger is
T-shirt, Pants, Shoes and Socks 4 established based on experiments in climate chambers using
Long-Sleeve shirt, Pants, Shoes, Socks 1 heat-balance method and ultimately theorized into the
PMV-PPD model. For this study, the equations are
presented by ASHREAHanbook 2013 for PMV calculation
T-shirt, Pants, Shoes and Socks 2
Slightly Warm (1) Long-Sleeve shirt, Pants, Shoes, Socks 1 are as used.
T-shirt, Shorts, Shoes and Socks 1

Warm (2) T-shirt, Pants, Shoes and Socks 1

Hot (3)
Table 5.2 shows a tally of the respondents answers
regarding the thermal sensation they felt during the field
study. A total of 26 respondents replied to the survey.19
percent of the respondents said that they felt slightly cool
which corresponds to a -1 in the PMV thermal scale. 4
percent said that they felt cool (-2) and 58 percent said that
it was neutral (0). Figure 5.3 shows their clothing with
0
The design builder software has a PMV calculator included
within it. Initially, the PMV was calculated through hand by
hand. Upon obtaining a value using this method, it was then
compared to the result provided by the software’s
calculator. The same input was inserted into the calculator.
The results were similar and the calculator from the
software was used instead

9|P a ge
 Figure 5.1 shows the relationship between the
PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) and PPD (Predicted
Percentage of Dissatisfied).

PMV calculation for the building indicated that the

occupants inside the ventilated building were slightly
uncomfortable. On most part of the building, the PMV was
recorded to be around 0.80 to 1.0.

The PMV was calculated at the ten (10) points specified in 5.4 Predicted Mean Vote and Actual Mean Vote
the field study. Summer clothing (0.5 clo) is assumed to be Correlation
the level of clothing for the Philippine setting and a met of
1.6 for light-work and standing/shopping. The results were During the field study, the respondents were asked
tabulated in the following table. about their thermal sensation within the building. A total of
26 respondents, some are employees but most of it are
customers, participated in the survey.

Table 5.5: Calculated PMV-PPD 70

Head Knees Average

Percentage of respondents (%)

Points PMV PPD PMV PPD PMV PPD 60
1 1.42 46.6 1.45 47.97 1.435 47.285 57.69
2 0.92 22.88 0.95 24.16 0.935 23.52 50
3 0.89 21.72 0.95 24.12 0.92 22.92
4 0.98 25.37 1.01 26.48 0.995 25.925 40
5 0.89 21.67 1.02 27.02 0.955 24.345
6 0.86 20.77 1.1 30.73 0.98 25.75 30
7 1.07 28.95 1.24 37.03 1.155 32.99
8 -0.16 5.56 -0.16 5.56 20 19.23
9 0.9 22.11 0.94 23.55 0.92 22.83 15.38
10 0.88 21.24 0.76 17.08 0.82 19.16 10
3.85 3.85
0 0 0
-3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
PMV Thermal Scale
50
Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied

45
Figure 5.2: PMV vs. PPD
40
35
Figure 5.2shows the subjective responses gathered from the
30 occupants within field study period. 19% of the respondents
(PPD)

25 answered a slightly cool (-1) thermal scale while 58%

20 answered neutral (0).
15
10
5
0
-0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2
Predicted Mean Vote (PMV)

Figure 5.1: PMV vs. PPD

10 | P a g e
Table 5.6: AMV, Mean AMV, PMV and PPD for each test areas
Mean PMV PPD
Area OP Actual Mean Vote (AMV) AMV
Cold(-3) Cool (- Slightly Neutral Slightly Warm Hot (3)
2) cool (-1) (0) Warm (2)
(1)
1 28.315 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1.435 47.285
2 26.215 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0.935 23.52
3 26.15402 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 -0.33333 0.92 22.92
4 26.305 0 0 1 3 2 0 0 0.166667 0.995 25.925
5 26.215 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 -0.2 0.955 24.345
6 26.325 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0.98 25.75
7 26.935 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0.333333 1.155 32.99
8 24.07083 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 -1 -0.16 5.56
9 26.045 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0.92 22.83
10 25.685 0.82 19.16

Table 5.6 shows the comparison between the

1.8
Predicted Mean Vote and Actual Mean Vote. As seen in
the table, a significant disparity between the Calculated 1.6y = 0.7329x + 0.9066
R² = 0.8227
PMV and the Actual Mean Vote (Survey Votes) was
1.4
observed. The calculated PMV seemed to over predict

Predicted Mean Vote (PMV)

the thermal comfort within the building by an average 1.2
thermal scale of about 1.This results is also consistent
1
with other studies similar to the one done by Simons, B.,
et al. Their calculated PMV over predicts the actual 0.8
votes they’ve gathered from their survey. They
0.6
suggested that PMV over predicts thermal comfort.
0.4
Among the reasons why this happens is due to
the aspect that thermal comfort for tropical countries or 0.2
hot and humid regions differ from the thermal comfort 0
on regions of higher latitude. The respondents may have -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5
been acclimatized to the temperature values and -0.2
therefore answered as such in the survey. -0.4
Actual Mean Vote (AMV)
In addition to that, some of the respondents
were customers that just got in within the building who
perceived the thermal conditions inside is preferable as Figure 5.3: Linear Regression between PMV and AMV
compared to the outside conditions.

By constructing a linear regression between

AMV and PMV (Figure 5.3), a relation of R² = 0.8227 5.5 Correlation between Operating Temperature and
is found with equation y = 0.7329x + 0.9066. The PMV Actual Mean Vote
model proposed by Fanger suggest a neutrality range of
Figure 5.4 shows that to achieve a neutral
-1 to 1 thermal scale but according to the graph the
thermal scale (0) the operative temperature is 26.30 ˚C.
actual neutrality range is about 0.1737 to 1.6395.
For the predicted mean vote (Figure 5.5), the operative
Additionally, the neutral point of 0 in the PMV scale is
temperature is 23.79˚C to achieve a neutral thermal
actually 0.9066. What this means is that the neutral
scale.There is a 2.51˚C difference between the result
point for people inside the building is actually closer to
from the regression of the actual mean vote as compared
“slightly warm” in the ASHREA thermal scale.
to the regression of predicted mean vote.

11 | P a g e
 To improve the thermal conditions within the building, a
1.5
cooling load estimate is needed to properly size the air-
y = 0.4744x - 12.473 conditioning equipment.
Actual Mean Vote (AMV)
1
R² = 0.9367
5.7 Cooling load estimate
0.5
The cooling load of the building is calculated
0 using the software Design Builder version 4.2.0.034.
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 The software has monthly, daily, hourly, and sub-hourly
-0.5
data of the whole year of 2002 for local conditions in
-1 the Philippines. During the field study, a value of 32.40
was obtained for outdoor dry bulb temperature. Relative
-1.5 humidity registers at 71.2%.These values were then
Operative Temperature (OP) compared to the 32.75 outdoor dbt and 68% relative
humidity data for 1 P.M. (GMT +8 ) from the software.
Since these values were almost close in their numerical
Figure 5.4: Operative Temperature vs. AMV values, it was decided to use the data from the software
instead.

A model of the building was developed and

2 then appropriate building materials, sky model, global
Predictedl Mean Vote (PMV)

y = 0.3688x - 8.7764 positioning, and various internal fixtures such as lights,

1.5 R² = 0.8929 racks and computer were put into place and loaded. For
the month of May, a summer design day calculation
1
option was chosen. The software uses heat balance
0.5 method implemented in Energy Plus simulation for the
cooling design load calculations. The complete input for
0 the heat balance method suggested by the ASHREA
22 24 26 28 30 Handbook was followed for parameter inputs required
-0.5 by the software. The schedule of the establishment as
Operative Temperature (OP)
well as the schedule of the internal equipment usage
were also determined and established within the
Figure 5.5: Operative Temperature vs. PMV software. Some values or parameters are assumed
appropriately according to the ASHREA standard.

5.6 Evaluation of the environmental factors

According to ASHREA, the temperature range

for thermal comfort is between 22˚C and 24˚C. On the
other hand, SIAGE suggests a temperature comfort
range of 22.5˚C – 25.6˚C. Considering the average of
operative temperature at various points inside the
building, almost all points being considered failed to
meet the set standards with points 8 and 10 being the
exception. Relative humidity, however, was in range
with the standards at almost all points averaging
between 45-55%. For air velocity, according to Standard
55 section 5.3.3.2, for a non-residential building where
air temperature is greater than or equal to 25.5 ˚C the
limit for air velocity should not exceed 0.8 m/s. On the
other hand, air temperatures less than or equal to 22.5˚C
Figure 5.6: Shows the calculated cooling load at
should not have more than 0.15 m/s. The average value
different zones using ASHRAE sizing method
measured falls within the acceptable range of the set
standard except only for the points where the Air
conditioning unit is near.

12 | P a g e
 For the cooling load calculation, the operative
temperature was set as the control temperature in order
to account for the varying conditions. The operative
temperature set-point was set at 26.22°C which is the
average of the measured indoor operative temperature
during the field measurements.

The maximum calculated value of the cooling

load (Figure 5.6) for the Sales Area (Zone 3) is about
12.73 kW. Sensible and Latent Heat gains were 2.88 kW
and 9.84 kW respectively. These values for the
maximum cooling load were taken during May 08:30 in
the morning. This implies that during the morning or
during initial operating hours, the air conditioning unit
has its critical load. This can be explained using the fact
that heat gained during the whole night, when air
conditioning unit isn’t working, gets accumulated
leaving the initial operating hours to have the most heat Figure 5.7: Shows the calculated cooling load at
load. different zones using ASHRAE sizing method

Upon researching the floor type air-conditioning
unit they use for the Sales Area (Zone 3), it was found out
that the cooling capacity of the unit was 36,000 BTU/hr or
about 10.55kW. A significant difference between the
estimated cooling load against the cooling capacity of the
air conditioning unit is observed. For only one air
conditioning unit operational in the sales area, the air
conditioning unit is therefore inadequate for delivering
comfort during elevated heat loads. An addition of another
air-conditioning unit is suggested to achieve thermal
comfort.
In order to achieve thermal comfort, a decision
for operative temperature must be done to be applied for
the optimized design. According to the ASHREA, the
standard thermal comfort temperature zones is between
22°C and 24°C. In the obtained results from the PMV
calculations and thermal survey, choosing a lower
operating temperature means a slightly uncomfortable
thermal sensation for the occupants. So, a compromise
between the two should serve as a basis for the design’s
operating temperature. A 24°C was chosen, since this
value is within range for the ASHRAE standard and also
is within the neutral range of the operating temperature
from the Actual mean vote.
A calculation for the cooling load using an
operative temperature of 24 °C was conducted and the
results were slightly off as compared to during the 26.22
°C operative temperature cases. The cooling load for
Zone 3 was 12.56 kW with 2.77 kW sensible and 9.79
kW latent. This results further reiterates the fact that the
single air-conditioning unit operating in the sales area is
insufficient for the demand.
As for the cooling load in the
pharmacy/executive area the single unit within that area
should be enough for the cooling demand within the
area.
5.8 Computational Fluid Dynamic Simulation
In order to simulate or work out a design for
improving the thermal conditions within the building, a
CFD is needed to determine if the possible solutions is
viable. A CFD simulation of the building’s model has
been conducted for the study using the software Design
Builder. The simulation obtained was a product of
multiple CFD simulations errors which was improved in
every iterations to get the desired results.

13 | P a g e
Figure 5.8: The contours for air temperature for head Figure 5.10: The contours for air velocity for head level
level from CFD simulation. from CFD simulation.

Figure 5.9: The contours for air temperature for knees Figure 5.11: The contours for air velocity for knees
level from CFD simulation. level from CFD simulation.

Using figures 5.11 and 5.12, the main criterion Air velocities from the CFD simulation are for
to consider the CFD as correct is the temperature. The the most part equal to zero. Some areas closer to the air
temperature should at least be closer to the obtained conditioning unit has an air velocity of about 3m/s.
measurements during the field study. Temperatures
within CFD simulation ranges from 18-29°C. The
prominent temperature within the building are colored
yellow to orange which signifies a25 - 26°C temperature
for both the head and knees level.

14 | P a g e
 CFD simulation is assumed to be good enough to
represent the actual to the model.

Several points such as point 1 stray away

Figure 5.12: The contours for the mean radiant
temperature for head level from CFD simulation
largely from the measured value. The average measured
value is about 28.74°C, however the CFD gives a
largely different value of 26°C. There are several
reasons why this is the case. Firstly, the racks assumed
as obstacles must be the reason why infiltration air
cannot get into the point since these racks are assumed
to be pure blocks rather than racks with intricate
openings. And secondly, the measured temperature
during the actual field study must perhaps be erroneous
because the equipment isn’t calibrated correctly during
the initial measurement. Regardless of whichever the
case, these point is ignored since occupants in the
building rarely inhabits this place and since most of the
CFD temperatures coincides to the actual measured
temperature.

For the knees level, temperatures has the same

trend as with the head level temperatures. The
comparison is summarized in the following graphs

Head Level
40

30

20

10

0
Figure 5.13: The contours for the mean radiant 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
temperature for knees level from CFD simulation
CFD ACTUAL

5.9 CFD validation

Knees Level
The obtained CFD simulations are only
applicable for the building model created in the 40
software. To relate this to the actual measurements and 30
to safely say that the model can be used for
optimization, the CFD simulations must be validated to 20
the actual measured values.
10
Using table 5.1 and figures5.11 and 5.12, the
0
actual measured values through most of the points for
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
the head level closely resembles the obtained
temperatures from the head level CFD temperature CFD Actual
contour. The temperatures from the CFD contour
deviates from the actual measured temperature by only
about 0.5-1°C. Although the temperatures are not Figure 5.14: CFD and Actual results for head and knees
exactly the same, the obtained temperature from the level from CFD simulation

15 | P a g e
 The air velocity for both the CFD and actual The mean radiant temperature is a parameter for the
for most part of the building are zero. Some parts closer PMV equation as well as the operative equation.
to the air conditioning units however have a maximum
velocity of 3 m/s. The velocity vectors of the air from Table 5.7: Mean Radiant Temperature (Head)
the air conditioning unit is describe in the following Points Mrt - calculated Mrt CFD
1 27.8 27.73
figure. 2 27 27.27
3 27.916094 27
4 27 26.82
5 27.2 26.36
6 27.6 26.82
7 27.8 27.73
8 27.583333 27.27
9 27.5 27.27
10 27.5 26.36

Table 5.8: Mean Radiant Temperature (Knees)

Points Mrt - calculated Mrt CFD
1 28 26.36
2 27 26.36
3 27 26.36
4 27 26.36
5 27.2 26.36
6 27.6 26.36
Figure 5.15: Over all Air velocity CFD simulation 7 27.8 26.36
8 25 26.36
9 27.6 26.36
10 27.4 26.36

MRT Head
Figure 5.19 shows the calculated values for MRT that
30
are compared to the CFD.
20 Most of the calculated mean radiant temperature
coincides with the mean radiant temperature from the
10 CFD.

0 Seeing most of the mean radiant temperature from the

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 CFD coincides with the calculated mean radiant
temperature having some tolerable deviations, the
software model was deemed to be satisfactory.
MRT Knees
30
6. Conclusion
25
An evaluation of the thermal conditions and
20 actual situation of commercial building in the
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Philippines have been presented in this paper. The paper
aimed to assess whether commercial buildings in the
Mrt-Kneescalculated CFD Mrt Philippines follow standards such as the ASHREA 55
and ISO 7730. A single building was taken up as a case
Figure 5.16: Head and Knees Comparison of the study building. Upon conducting a field study, it was
Calculated and CFD MRT values found out that the thermal conditions inside the
establishment has slightly deviated from
ASHREA/ANSI/SIAGE standards.

The study made use of PMV model developed

by Fanger. It was used to predict the thermal comfort of
the commercial building case study. From the analysis,

16 | P a g e
it was observed that the calculated PMV ranges between conditions peaks during 3 P.M. In order to improve
0.8 and 1. This coincides with a thermal scale of thermal conditions and comply with the standards set by
“slightly warm” indicating that thermal comfort inside reputable institutions, placing or installing another air-
the establishment isn’t achieved. conditioning unit is therefore advisable.

Although this may be what the PMV model
predicts, the subjective data or the actual mean vote says
a different thing. Comparing both results, it was found
out that the PMV model over predicts the actual mean
vote (subjective survey).
By constructing a linear regression between
AMV and PMV (Figure 5.3), a relation of R² = 0.8227
is found with equation y = 0.7329x + 0.9066. The PMV
model suggest a neutrality range of -1 to 1 thermal scale
but according to the graph the actual neutrality range is
about 0.1737 to 1.6395 while the neutral thermal scale
(0) in the PMV corresponds to 0.9066 not 0. This means
that the neutral point for the respondents inside the
building would be close to “slightly warm” in the
ASHREA seven point thermal scale.
Uneven distribution of supply air from the air-
conditioning unit is also one of the problem for poor
thermal quality. Fixtures within the establishment such
as the racks obstruct the flow of cold supply air. To
solve this, a proposed layout of the internal fixture of
the establishment, was created using the validated model
from the software Design builder.
As was discussed previously, a second LG
split type floor standing air conditioning unit was
decided to be added to the building to supplement the
load of the primary air-conditioning unit.

This result is consistent with other studies

conducted by other people from tropical regions.
Several conclusions can be pointed out as why this
happens. However, the most noteworthy cause is the
fact that thermal comfort for tropical regions are
different from higher latitude regions due to
acclimatization of the people from its surrounding.

Analysis of the acquired measured values and

through various research led to the conclusion that the
air-conditioning equipment they use for cooling the
sales area (Zone 3) is insufficient in improving thermal Figure 6.1: Design Head Temperature
conditions when peak load is achieved.

A model of the building was developed using

Design Builder software to establish a foundation upon
where to optimize the thermal conditions within the
building being considered as case study. A CFD was
conducted and then validated through field
measurements previously acquired.

7. Recommendation
Among the main problem as to why the
thermal condition inside the building doesn’t comply
with the ASHREA is because of insufficient equipment.
The floor type air-conditioning unit they use only has a
Figure 6.2: Design Knees Temperature
cooling capacity of about 36,000 BTU/hr or about
10.55kW.As can be seen from the cooling load
estimation, during 8:30 A.M., the Sales area (Zone 3)
has a cooling load of 12.73 kW. This is when initial
operating hours of the establishment. Going along with
the software’s site data, it can be observed that outside

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Figure 6.3: Design HeadOperative Temperature
Figure 6.4: Design Knees Operative Temperature
The figure above is the proposed layout for internal
fixtures as well as an additional air conditioning unit
was simulated using CFD. The proposed design from
figures 6.1 and 6.2 improved the thermal conditions of
the building from an average of 25-26°C to 24-25°C.
The operative temperature from figures 6.3 and 6.4 had
an average of 24 - 25°C which is well within the
suggested ASHREA standard.
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