The most efficient position of shading devices in a double-skin facade

In recent years, there has been a great deal of interest in double-skin facades due to the advantages claimed for this technology in terms of energy saving in the cold season, protection from external noise and wind loads and their high-tech image. The advent of computers and other office equipment has increased the internal heat gains in most offices. Highly glazed facades, together with the extra heat gains from the electric lighting made necessary by deep floor plans and the wider use of false ceilings, have increased the risk of overheating. To preserve comfort and reduce cooling loads, it is important to apply natural cooling strategies, including solar protections use. External solar protections are more effective than internal shading devices. In the case of the double-skin facade, the blinds can be integrated in the cavity. It is thus protected from the bad weather and pollution. Solar protection can remain in place even in the event of important wind, which represents an undeniable advantage for the buildings with great height. This article examines the influence of the position and the colour of the blinds on the cooling consumption of an office building with a double-skin facade. (C) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.