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Introducing AFRC-Accepted Thermal Simulation: Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Fenestration


Introduction: Welcome to our website, your trusted source for energy-efficient fenestration solutions. We are proud to introduce the AFRC-accepted thermal simulation, a groundbreaking approach revolutionizing the assessment of energy performance in windows and fenestration products. In this post, we will delve into the technical aspects of thermal simulation and highlight the software programs accepted by the Australian Fenestration Rating Council (AFRC)- https://afrc.org.au/.


Understanding AFRC and its Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS): The Australian Fenestration Rating Council (AFRC) operates the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS), a voluntary energy rating system that empowers consumers to make informed choices by comparing the energy efficiency of fenestration products. WERS considers multiple factors such as solar heat gain, thermal insulation, and air infiltration, ensuring comprehensive evaluation.

Role of Thermal Simulation: At the heart of the AFRC's energy performance assessment lies thermal simulation, a powerful tool that enables accurate predictions of fenestration product performance. By utilizing advanced computational methods such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), thermal simulation provides detailed insights into the thermal behaviour of windows.

Software Programs Accepted by AFRC: The AFRC accepts several industry-leading software programs for conducting thermal simulations. These include:

  1. EnergyPlus: EnergyPlus is a robust and widely-used simulation software that models the energy performance of buildings. It offers a comprehensive set of tools to analyse fenestration systems and assess their impact on overall building energy efficiency.

  2. THERM: THERM is a state-of-the-art software developed by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. It specialises in two-dimensional heat transfer analysis for fenestration products. THERM allows precise modelling of various window components, including frames, glazing, and spacers, to evaluate their thermal performance.

  3. WINDOW: WINDOW is another powerful software developed by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. It is designed to calculate the thermal properties of windows, including U-factors, solar heat gain coefficients, and condensation resistance. WINDOW enables detailed simulations for a wide range of window configurations and glazing types.

  4. WUFI®: WUFI® is an advanced hygrothermal simulation software widely used to assess heat and moisture transfer through building components. It can be employed to study the thermal behaviour and moisture performance of fenestration systems in various climate conditions.

By utilising these AFRC-accepted software programs, manufacturers can accurately simulate and evaluate the thermal performance of their fenestration products, enabling them to optimise designs for maximum energy efficiency.

Conclusion: The acceptance of thermal simulation by the AFRC is a game-changer in assessing and enhancing energy efficiency in fenestration products. Leveraging industry-leading software programs such as EnergyPlus, THERM, WINDOW, and WUFI®, manufacturers can conduct precise simulations, optimise designs, and deliver high-quality, energy-efficient solutions that meet or exceed the AFRC's energy performance standards.






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