Two-dimensional finite element model for heat transfer in residential attic using an attic barrier system

A two-dimensional finite element model is developed to simulate the thermal performance of a residential attic. The attic is ventilated using an evaporative cooler for the occupied space which vents its exhaust air into the attic. The attic is also ventilated by outside air introduced at the perimeter(soffit) of the attic ceiling and is exhausted at the ridge of the roof.;The thermal effects of an installed Attic Radiant Barrier System (ARBS) on the underside of the roof are also investigated. The model is steady state in nature using different solar insolation fluxes and ambient temperatures as driving functions at several discrete hourly values during the day. A (...