@article {11733, title = {Developing Low-Conductance Window Frames: Capabilities and Limitations of Current Window Heat Transfer Design Tools}, journal = {Journal of Building Physics}, volume = {32}, number = {2}, year = {2008}, pages = {131-153}, abstract = {

While window frames typically represent 20-30\% of the overall window area, their impact on the total window heat transfer rates may be much larger. This effect is even greater in low-conductance (highly insulating) windows which incorporate very low conductance glazings. Developing low-conductance window frames requires accurate simulation tools for product research and development. Based on a literature review and an evaluation of current methods of modeling heat transfer through window frames, we conclude that current procedures specified in ISO standards are not sufficiently adequate for accurately evaluating heat transfer through the low-conductance frames.

We conclude that the near-term priorities for improving the modeling of heat transfer through low-conductance frames are:

  1. Add 2-D view-factor radiation to standard modeling and examine the current practice of averaging surface emissivity based on area weighting and the process of making an equivalent rectangular frame cavity.
  2. Assess 3-D radiation effects in frame cavities and develop recommendation for inclusion into the design fenestration tools.
  3. Assess existing correlations for convection in vertical cavities using CFD.
  4. Study 2-D and 3-D natural convection heat transfer in frame cavities for cavities that are proven to be deficient from item 3 above. Recommend improved correlations or full CFD modeling into ISO standards and design fenestration tools, if appropriate.
  5. Study 3 D hardware short-circuits and propose methods to ensure that these effects are incorporated into ratings.
  6. Study the heat transfer effects of ventilated frame cavities and propose updated correlations.
}, author = {Arlid Gustavsen and Dariush K. Arasteh and Bj{\o}rn Petter Jelle and Dragan C. Curcija and Christian Kohler} } @conference {11745, title = {Development of Trade-Off Equations for EnergyStar Windows}, booktitle = {SimBuild 2004}, year = {2004}, month = {08/2004}, address = {Boulder, CO}, abstract = {

The authors explore the feasibility of adding a performance option to DOE{\textquoteright}s EnergyStar{\textcopyright} Windows program whereby windows of differing U-factors and SHGCs can qualify so long as they have equivalent annual energy performance. An iterative simulation procedure is used to calculate trade-off equations giving the change in SHGC needed to compensate for a change in U-factor. Of the four EnergyStar{\textcopyright} Window climate zones, trade-off equations are possible only in the Northern and Southern zones. In the North/Central and South/Central zones, equations are not possible either because of large intrazone climate variations or the current SHGC requirements are already near optimum.

}, author = {Yu Joe Huang and Robin Mitchell and Stephen E. Selkowitz and Dariush K. Arasteh and Robert D. Clear} } @conference {11671, title = {A Database of Window Annual Energy Use in Typical North American Residences}, booktitle = {2000 ASHRAE Winter Meeting}, year = {1999}, month = {02/2000}, address = {Dallas, Texas}, abstract = {

This paper documents efforts by the National Fenestration Rating Council to develop a database on annual energy impacts of windows in a typical new, single family, single story residence in various U.S. and Canadian climates. The result is a database of space heating and space cooling energies for 14 typical windows in 52 North American climates. (Future efforts will address the effects of skylights.) This paper describes how this database was created, documents the assumptions used in creating this database, elaborates on assumptions, which need further research, examines the results, and describes the possible uses of the database.

}, author = {Dariush K. Arasteh and Yu Joe Huang and Robin Mitchell and Robert D. Clear and Christian Kohler} }