Research Project Overview:

This research investigated condensation in window systems under various exterior environmental conditions. Heat transfer simulations were used to evaluate the potential for condensation among 11 different window systems, ranked by their respective heat transfer coefficients (U-factors) and condensation resistance (CR) rating values. The objectives were to determine exterior environmental conditions under which condensation would occur, to measure the extents of condensation, to compare the extents of condensation among the analyzed window systems, and to evaluate relationships of condensation potential with the U-factor and CR values. Results demonstrated that the conditions under which condensation occurs and the extents of condensation on window surfaces are not driven by the U-factor or CR values, but rather by the individual performance of each window system component (frame, glass, and spacer) and their material properties.

Partners:

Technoform

Publications:

Aksamija, A., and Milosevic, S., (2023). “Condensation Study: Thermal Analysis of Aluminum-Framed Window Systems under Different Environmental Conditions”, Journal of Architectural Engineering, Vol. 29, No. 4, DOI: 10.1061/JAEIED/AEENG-1589. (selected as Editor’s Choice article)

Aksamija, A., Milosevic, S., Sanders, H., and Blakeslee, A., (2022). “Condensation Study of Windows: Comparative Analysis of Different Window Systems under Various Exterior Conditions”, Proceedings of the Facade World Congress 2022, Los Angeles, CA, October 12-13.