Full Description

Generally, atriums are considered to use enormous amounts of heating and cooling energy; however, with proper integration of the building systems and utilization of natural and building resources, an energy-efficient atrium can be designed. The paper will highlight the various heating-ventilating systems and design concepts used to reduce the adverse effects of the atrium. These concepts include shade control, waste-heat heating and cooling and spray pond cooling. Temperature distribution in the atrium, as it relates to choosing a proper HVAC system will be discussed. Toward the goal of providing improved reliability and savings in first cost, a case study will illustrate how the HVAC system, rather than a separate dedicated system can be used for fire and smoke control.

Citation: Symposium, ASHRAE Transactions, 1983, vol. 89, pt. 2B, Washington, D.C.