Experimental evaluation of night ventilation phenomena

The present paper aims to investigate, in a systematic way, and by using both experimental and theoretical tools, the potential of night ventilation techniques when applied to full scale buildings, under different structure, design, ventilation, and climatic characteristics. Also, to investigate the impact and the limitations of night ventilation techniques regarding the thermal behavior of various types of buildings. Real scale measurements in three buildings operating under free-floating and air conditioning conditions have been performed. The cooling potential of night ventilation techniques applied to buildings operating under different conditions and with variable air flow rates, has been experimentally and theoretically studied. Additionally, sensitivity analysis on the impact of the major parameters determining the phenomena has also been carried out. Practical considerations on the impact of main parameters are given. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.