Date of Award

1-2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Environmental Science

First Advisor

Dr. Mahmoud Haggag

Second Advisor

Dr. Nader Yehia Azab

Third Advisor

Dr. Riad Saraiji

Abstract

Abu Dhabi emirate consume about 130 millions AED in air conditioning electricity bills, this amount is only for 700 buildings in Abu Dhabi City and 300 buildings in Musafah district. Abu Dhabi city consumes 239.70 Kw/m2/year; however Musafah district consumes 179.92 Kw/m2/year. The difference came from different in total area of glass building facades between Abu Dhabi city and Musafah district buildings. Despite the fact that Abu Dhabi is one of the hottest cities in the Gulf region, its modern office buildings are characterized by glass facades. Such a concept comes with increased air conditioning operational costs due to the higher solar gain. Architects and engineers should understand the behavior of the buildings they design if environmental performance and comfort are to be utilized. The overall performance of glazing elements in an office building can be enhanced when they are designed to be part of a complete fa9ade system. Designers can reduce glass facades related energy losses by reducing air leakage through the external skin, using high performance windows, increasing insulation levels, and minimizing thermal bridging. In terms of energy efficiency, the use of double skin facades (DSF) has also gained increasing popularity in many parts pf the world. This technique can increase comfort, reduce operating costs, and reduce overall energy. Despite these advantages, there is a little experience of using DSF technique in the Gulf region; mainly because of the additional costs associated with multi-layered facades and need to be convinced of the advantages of this type of construction, In addition to that DSF technique need specific simulation program with very high accuracy results or mirror image model of DSF technique to only think to use this technique in our regions.

This thesis examines the growing interest in using glazing elements and integrating the most advanced transparent facades into high performance sustainable office building in Abu Dhabi, taking into consideration the climatic condition of the city. Different orientations, different systems of single skin fa9ade and Double skin facade, different types of glass based on over all heat transfer value (U-value) have been tested, using Hourly Analysis Program version 4.20 (HAP 4.20) which is one of the most famous simulation programs in air conditioning load analysis.

The study has concluded the following:

1- The use of glazing facades has gained increasing popularity in office buildings in Abu Dhabi, despite a lack of knowledge about the energy impact.

2- Attention is given to the use of double skin facade systems, since these allow natural ventilation, provide a degree of sound insulation, provide a reduction in energy consumption, and increase occupant comfort.

3- New construction technologies and better integration strategies can change the perception of glass facades from "energy losers" to "energy managers".

4- The use of advanced facades such DSF will incorporate dynamic elements to provide the control needed to environmental conditions and reduce energy consumption in office buildings.

5- It is important for architects and engineers to understand the behavior of the buildings they design if environmental performance and comfort are to be maximized. To achieve appropriate conditions in office buildings.

6- The challenge that remains to adapt the new advanced facades is that; these techniques require an economic justification. The potential energy savings must be converted into real money in order to make real comparisons with the construction costs of building facades.

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