Experimental analysis and modeling of hydronic radiant ceiling panels using transient-state analysis

The model developed in this investigation considers the hydronic panels as a transient-state heat exchanger connected to a detailed lumped transient model of the building. The behavior of the hydronic ceiling system and the interactions with its environment has been experimentally and numerically evaluated. This article presents the results of a study performed to develop a transient model of hydronic ceiling panels in heating or cooling modes and its environment (window, building structure, internal thermal loads and ventilation).Only the dry regime is considered in this case. Using as inputs the hydronic ceiling and room dimensions, material properties and the transient measurements of the air temperature at the adjacent zones, climatic conditions, supply air and water temperatures and mass flow rates, the model permits to estimate the water exhaust temperature, ceiling average surface temperature, resultant and dry air room temperatures, hydronic ceiling power and internal surface temperatures of the room in order to compare with measurements taken during the commissioning process. Two transient tests in heating and cooling modes are used to the experimental validation.