THERMAL MODELLING

Various aspects of occupied spaces affect the thermal comfort perceived by the occupants. Thermal comfort simulation can help estimate occupant perceived comfort based on the space material, air velocity, temperature, etc.

At the micro level, thermal simulation can estimate the amount of heat going through materials, such as window frames and glass. Thermal simulation also can estimate the temperature of the frame and glass. This is important, especially in countries with vast temperature differences between the interior and exterior of the buildings.

Thermal Modelling Services in Australia

In the effort to advance sustainable building practices, thermal modelling plays a critical role in optimising energy efficiency. By simulating how buildings interact with their environment, thermal modelling helps identify areas for improvement in insulation, ventilation, and heating systems. This not only enhances occupant comfort but also reduces energy consumption.

Afogreen Build specialize in providing comprehensive thermal modelling services tailored to the unique needs of each project.

What is Thermal Modelling?

Thermal modelling is a computer-based simulation technique used to understand how heat is transferred through a building and its impact on occupant comfort. It takes into account key factors such as space materials, glazing, air velocity, ventilation, and temperature to predict how comfortable a space will feel under different conditions.

For architects, M&E consultants, air conditioning specialists, floor heating companies, and builders, thermal modelling provides a practical way to estimate the amount of heat gains and losses through building elements such as walls, window frames, and glass. By analysing these interactions, thermal modelling helps project teams make informed design choices, such as selecting insulation materials, improving window performance, or optimising HVAC system specifications.

In short, thermal modelling bridges the gap between design intent and real-world performance, providing stakeholders with a reliable tool to balance comfort, sustainability, and energy savings.

The Importance of Thermal Modelling in Australia

Australia’s diverse climates, from hot and dry regions to cooler temperate zones, create unique challenges for building design and energy efficiency. Thermal modelling helps address these challenges by showing how buildings perform under different environmental conditions.

Key benefits of thermal modelling in Australia include:

  • Climate-responsive design: Adapts building strategies to local weather conditions, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems.
  • Regulatory compliance: Demonstrates compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) Performance Solution, ensuring projects meet Australia’s energy efficiency requirements.
  • Energy cost savings: Optimises elements such as insulation, glazing, and shading to lower heating and cooling demands, reducing long-term utility expenses.
  • Improved occupant comfort: Maintains stable indoor temperatures throughout the year for healthier and more comfortable living and working spaces.
  • Sustainability outcomes: Supports broader environmental goals, making projects attractive to sustainability-focused consumers and investors.

 

By combining comfort, efficiency, compliance, and sustainability, thermal modelling delivers value for architects, consultants, developers, and building owners across Australia.

How Thermal Modelling Works (Step-by-Step Process)

Thermal modelling involves a systematic process that allows for accurate simulations of a building’s thermal performance. 

Step 1: Data Collection

We begin by gathering essential data about the building project, including architectural plans, materials, site location, local climate conditions for accurate simulations, a cooling and heating equipment data sheet, and other necessary information. 

Step 2: Simulation Setup

We configure the thermal modelling software by inputting the collected data. This step is crucial before running the simulation.

Step 3: Running Simulations

With all parameters set, we run the simulations to assess how the building will perform under different conditions. We use software approved by standards, which enables us to help projects comply with requirements while aligning with client goals.

Step 4: Analysis of Results

Once the simulations are completed, we analyse the results to evaluate thermal comfort. This step helps identify potential areas for improvement.

Step 5: Reporting and Recommendations

Finally, we compile our findings into a comprehensive report that outlines the results, insights, and recommendations for enhancing thermal comfort.

Enhancing Thermal Comfort Through Thermal Modelling

Thermal comfort refers to how people perceive their environment’s temperature, airflow, and humidity in relation to their own personal comfort. When these factors are balanced, occupants feel neither too hot nor too cold, but comfortable enough to focus, relax, or work effectively. Achieving this balance is essential in homes, offices, and public spaces across Australia’s varied climates.

Thermal modelling helps predict how buildings will perform under different conditions by simulating:

  • Indoor temperature variations: How heat moves through walls, windows, and roofs throughout the day.
  • Airflow patterns: How fresh air circulates inside a room, avoiding areas that feel too stuffy or drafty.
  • Humidity levels: How moisture interacts with temperature to maintain comfort without condensation or dryness.

 

By analysing these factors before a building is constructed, designers and consultants can make data-driven choices that enhance comfort while lowering energy demand.

Optimising Window Design and Placement

Thermal modelling can show how much heat is gained or lost through windows at different times of the day. By adjusting window size, glazing type, and orientation, buildings can reduce unwanted heat in summer and capture warmth in winter. This improves year-round comfort and cuts energy use for cooling and heating.

Improving Air Circulation and Ventilation

Comfort is not only about temperature but also about how air moves through a space. Thermal modelling helps identify areas where airflow is limited or excessive. By refining ventilation layouts, installing natural ventilation features, or adjusting HVAC systems, occupants can experience fresher and more stable air quality.

Controlling Humidity for a Balanced Environment

High humidity can make rooms feel hotter than they are, while low humidity can cause discomfort and dryness. Thermal modelling predicts how humidity will interact with indoor temperatures, guiding strategies such as dehumidification, insulation adjustments, or material choices to achieve healthier indoor conditions.

Reducing Hot and Cold Spots in Rooms

Some buildings have uneven temperature zones, such as corners that feel colder or areas near windows that overheat. Thermal modelling highlights these problem areas and allows adjustments in insulation, duct placement, or shading to create a more uniform and pleasant environment.

Case Studies and Success Stories (Optional)

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Optimising Thermal Comfort in Train Stations Through Advanced Thermal Modelling

We have conducted extensive thermal modelling for train stations, focusing on optimising comfort conditions for occupants at both the platform and concourse levels. By leveraging advanced thermal comfort simulations, we empowered clients with valuable insights to make informed, data-driven design decisions. Our comprehensive approach included a detailed analysis of key comfort factors, such as the space material, air velocity, temperature, etc. Additionally, we assessed thermal comfort using the PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) method, guiding those conditions at the train platform occupant levels met optimal standards. This holistic strategy helps to support an ideal environment for all station users.

We conducted detailed thermal comfort simulations for factory space, focusing on integrating underfloor cooling and chilled beams to optimise occupant comfort. The objective was to assess the impact of various supply air temperature scenarios from the underfloor cooling system, determining which temperature range would achieve the most favourable thermal conditions. Through this simulation, we identified the optimal balance between air supply temperature and comfort levels, guiding energy efficiency and operational effectiveness. This process not only enhanced occupant well-being but also contributed to a more sustainable and cost-effective solution, providing the client with valuable insights for fine-tuning their HVAC system to meet both performance and comfort goals.

We did thermal comfort simulation for sports hall to accommodate 200 athletes dancing simultaneously. The challenge was to balance the cooling capacity required to remove the heat generated by the athletes while maintaining a low air velocity to meet the maximum air velocity standards for badminton. Using a fabric ducting system, we ran multiple scenarios to optimise the configuration, including exhaust grill sizes and air supply temperature, supporting thermal comfort and compliance with sports-specific ventilation requirements. The results provided valuable insights, enabling the design of a highly efficient and comfortable environment tailored to the unique demands of the space.

We have done many projects for thermal modelling with different project characteristics. Contact us to discuss your needs, and we will help you further.

Consult Us for Professional Thermal Modelling

By simulating how buildings interact with their environment, it enables architects, M&E consultants, air conditioning companies, floor heating companies, and builders to make informed design decisions that reduce energy consumption and operational costs while promoting sustainable practices. 

If you’re looking to boost your building’s energy efficiency with professional thermal modelling services, connect with Afogreen Build today. Our team is here to provide a consultation tailored to your unique needs and help you achieve your sustainability goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does thermal modelling cost?

The cost of thermal modelling can vary based on the complexity of the project, the size of the building, and the specific requirements involved. At Afogreen Build, we provide customised quotes so that our services meet your unique needs while offering competitive pricing. For further info, please contact us.

The duration of the thermal modelling process depends on factors such as the project’s scale and the amount of data to be analysed. Typically, the entire process, from data collection to final reporting, can take several weeks. As your dedicated ESD consultant, we aim to provide timely results without compromising on quality.

Thermal modelling can be applied to a wide range of projects, including residential, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities. It is especially valuable for projects that integrate complementary services such as daylight modelling, which together enhance occupant comfort, energy performance, and compliance with green building standards.

Yes. By optimising insulation, glazing, shading, and HVAC systems, thermal modelling can significantly lower heating and cooling loads. This results in reduced operational costs and long-term energy savings. These improvements also contribute positively to sustainability frameworks such as LEED certification.

Thermal modelling takes into account various factors, such as location, adjacent shading and light-reflecting structures, building fabric, glazing, climate, the number of occupants inside at any time, and the activity level of occupants within the building.

Thermal modelling offers data-driven insights that can influence key design decisions, such as the choice of materials, orientation, and HVAC system specifications. By visualising potential outcomes, stakeholders can make informed choices that align with both performance goals and aesthetic considerations.

Yes, thermal modelling is essential for designing net-zero energy buildings. It allows designers to analyse energy usage patterns and optimise energy production strategies, ensuring that the building generates as much energy as it consumes, often through renewable sources.