Thermal environment in a confined space of high-rise building with split air conditioning system

Thermal environment near condensing units of air-conditioning systems in a confined space of high-rise building is investigated using a scale model, which is based on the Archimedes number in the similarity rule. In the scale model experiments, the effects of three main parameters, namely the distance b between the walls where the condensing units are installed; the blowing velocity v of the fans; and the heat release rate Q of the condensers were investigated in detail. It is shown that the distance b has significant effect on the temperature rise of the confined space. To keep the temperature rise less than 10°C, a minimum distance of 7 m is needed for a 16-storey high-rise building. Increase of the blowing velocity of the fans leads to the higher temperature rise in the space. On the other hand, the change in heat release rate of the condensing units has less significant impact on the thermal environment. The results are useful for both HVAC design engineers and building managers.