ISSN: 1546-962X
CODEN: JAIOAD
Published Online: 21 September 2007
Page Count: 8

Inputs and Analyses: An End User’s Perspective of Heat-Air-Moisture Data

Decareau, Christopher P.
Associate Principal and Senior Engineers, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, Inc., San Francisco, CA

Kan, Liyen
Associate Principal and Senior Engineers, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, Inc., San Francisco, CA

Piñon, Joseph P.
Associate Principal and Senior Engineers, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, Inc., San Francisco, CA

(Received 30 January 2006; accepted 23 August 2007)

Abstract

Hygrothermal simulation programs (HSPs) have the potential to help the way building enclosures are designed if end users are convinced the results are reliable. However, HSPs suffer from a lack of manufacturer-specific material data. HSP users often “create” materials by scouring multiple sources for hygrothermal properties. To the less familiar HSP user, significant error can be introduced into simulations by using properties that are calculated from variable sources. Through a series of case studies, this paper illustrates how material properties can make a difference in hygrothermal calculations and, ultimately, material specification.

Keywords:
hygrothermal simulation, material data, failure criteria, reliability

Paper ID: JAI100332
DOI: 10.1520/JAI100332
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