Abstract

Aim: The aim of the experiments was to check if different jet fans with similar parameters had a similar air flow profile. The study was also aimed at testing whether normal and reverse flow direction have the same profile. Next, the obtained results of velocity distribution along the airflow axis were compared with the results of numerical analysis carried out using tools commonly applied in Poland.

Project and methods: The study involved three jet fans (W1 and W3 were manufactured as reversible units, W2 was a unidirectional device). The tests were conducted in two empty warehouses to investigate airflow velocity. The measurements were performed along the axis of the fans and at additional specific points. The first measurement point was located at the fan inlet plane. The following measurements were conducted at 0.6-meter intervals at a distance of 3.6 m from the fans and at 1.2-meter intervals at a distance from 3.6 m to 24.0 m from the fan. The velocity at each measurement point was determined as the average of a 10-second measurement. The velocity measurements were conducted using an ultrasonic anemometer – Windmaster Pro. At the second stage of the study, CFD analysis was performed. Two models were devised in both Ansys Fluent and FDS. Each CFD model presented a single fan in warehouses. Models included the actual position of the fan, doors, columns and joists. Different settings and different sizes of the computational mesh were used in CFD simulation.

Results: The study resulted in an air profile along three different jet fans. Velocity profiles in normal and reverse directions were compared. Significant differences were found between airflows for normal and reverse directions. Additionally, it was possible to compare the obtained results in real scale and a CFD simulation performed in the ANSYS FLUENT 13, FDS 5.5.3 and FDS 6. Some of the CFD simulations provided a good similarity of airflow profiles in CFD and real tests, while others did not. Thus, the study showed which settings provided the best results.

Conclusions: Each of the tested fans is characterised by a different airflow distribution. The velocity distribution profile is different for the normal and reverse direction in the studied reversible fans despite the same air stream blown in both directions. The performed analyses show that CFD programs can solve velocity correctly, but this requires good settings.

Keywords: numerical simulations, velocity profile, jet fans, physical research, smoke and heat control

Type of article: original scientific article