Optimal Minimum Airflow for Air Circulation of Single-Duct VAV Terminal Boxes

Thermal comfort in an area is directly controlled by terminal boxes in variable air volume (VAV) air-handling unit (AHU) systems. The terminal box either modulates airflow or adjusts the discharge air temperature. Reduced air circulation will cause thermal discomfort in a conditioned space if the airflow and discharge air temperature are not suitable. The objective of this study is to identify an optimal value for airflow and discharge air temperature that will maintain room thermal comfort. Optimal room airflow and discharge air temperature is analyzed, and the impact of room airflow and discharge air temperature on thermal stratification is verified through CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations.