The lack of standards for testing low-temperature radiant ceiling panels prompted the Veterans Administration to issue a specification for the testing of radiant panels entitled, "Radiant Metal Ceiling Panels - A Method of Testing Performance." A test room was constructed in accordance with the VA specifications and further refinements were added to control the average unheated surface temperature (AUST) of the wall and floor to maintain a global energy balance within the room, eliminating the need for convection currents. An end wall next to the panels is temperature controlled independently to create the simulation of an "exterior wall." Temperature of the exterior wall can be varied and radiant panel performance determined for both heating and cooling. With the use of constant head tanks, 1/10 F thermometers, and platinum RTDs (resistance temperature detectors) recording on a 32-channel datalogger, the test facility can produce consistent repetitive results within a few percent.

Units: I-P