Computer-based methodology (CFD) flow field simulation is emerging to help heating, ventilation, and air conditioning engineers and designers predict improvements to the performance of HVAC installed systems. A simulation platform constituted of a CAD interface with a finite element CFD algorithm is applied to simulation of flow fields containing buoyant plumes in a commercial kitchen application. The simulation platform fully connects HVAC diffuser selection with a canopy hood exhaust system, and boundary conditions are developed allowing genuine specification of ventilation system balance. The results of two-dimensional (CFD) experiments are presented, comparing the induced action of open and directionally diffused supply outlets with conventional and make-up hood systems, for flow field, pressure, and temperature distributions in a full-scale experimental kitchen laboratory.

KEYWORDS: year 1995, developing, computers, calculating, commercial, kitchens, air flow, algorithms, building services, ventilation, performance, pressure, temperature distribution, experiment, exhaust hoods