SEDL / STP / STP1002-EB / STP10161S

A Tracer Gas Decay System for Monitoring Air Infiltration and Air Movement in Large Single Cell Buildings

WatersJohn, R
Coventry Polytechnic, Coventry,

Lawrance, GV
Coventry Polytechnic, Coventry,

Jones, N
Coventry Polytechnic, Coventry,

Pages: 21    Published: Jan 1989

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Abstract

A six channel, computer controlled, tracer gas monitoring system has been designed and constructed. It has been used to obtain over 50 sets of tracer decay curves in five buildings, ranging in volume from approximately 4000 to 32 000 m³.In all cases, six air sampling points were distributed evenly, where layout permitted, throughout each building.

The systems design, calibration procedure, and operating strategy are described and discussed. In addition, the method of obtaining infiltration rates and interzonal flows, based on multizone model theory, from the decay curves is outlined and discussed. Five examples of measured interzone flow rates and infiltration rates are given, one for each of the five buildings.