ABOUT EXPERIMENT PARTNER AND PRODUCT
FOCCHI design, produces and install complex façade systems for high-quality buildings. The tested solution is an innovative multifunctional façade system integrating IoT, heat pumps, automatic blinds and windows to ensure indoor comfort and energy efficiency.
MEASUREMENT & VERIFICATION (PM&VL 2)
The scope of the PM&VL2 is a complete characterization of all the envelope parts and their effects on internal occupants in real operating conditions. The Multifunctional Façade Lab (MFL) node verifies the thermal and energy performances of envelope systems such as doors and windows, opaque walls and façade modules under both stationary and dynamic conditions.
PARTNERS
Scientific partner
EURAC Research
Industrial Partner
Focchi
Main author:
Riccardo Pinotti
EURAC Research
This node of PM&VL2 covers the testing and development of a multifunctional façade designed for achieving Nearly Zero Energy Building (nZEB) balance and ensuring multi-comfort (thermal, visual, and acoustic comfort) with Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). The prefabricated façade integrates heating/cooling systems, ventilation, automated controls, and sensors for optimal performance. The goal is to offer an energy-efficient building envelope applicable to both new and existing structures. Testing procedure involves thermal characterization and assessing integrated component performance in controlled environments.
Design of Experiments
Experiments included testing the sample under summer and winter design conditions to evaluate possible critical temperatures to be reached by façade and its integrated components, as well as testing the proper functioning of the integrated heat-pump.
Results
Results of the testing procedures are reported in the table below:
Example of a test result: temperature profiles were measured by a set of thermocouples (TC11, TC13, TC17, and TC18), and the dewpoint temperature profile was calculated. Since the dewpoint temperature never exceeds the measured temperatures, no condensation risk is expected.
Conclusion
The testing of the facade system aimed to assess its operation under various conditions but encountered some technical challenges. Tests under winter and summer conditions highlighted the system’s ability to mitigate condensation risks, though challenges were noted in maintaining setpoint temperatures. Overall, the results offer valuable insights into the facade system’s performance, providing a basis for future improvements and optimizations.
CONSTRUCTION SEGMENT
TEST CATEGORY
Thermal and Energy Performance
DATE
30 July, 2023