Mechanical Engineering Commons^™

Consumer Facts About Radiant Barriers, Florida Solar Energy Center, Public Information Office

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Radiant barriers are becoming popular for use in Florida attics. Some marketing companies are now selling them with inflated claims of energy savings and questionable installation recommendations. Understandably confused consumers have called the FSEC Public Information Office for answers.

Economic Benefits Of Various Energy Conservation Options, Florida Solar Energy Center, Public Information Office

FSEC Energy Research Center®

An energy conservation investment for your home can be a significantly better investment than putting your money in the bank. While safe investments in the financial markets may yield about 8 percent return on investment, many energy investments can yield a considerably greater return when analyzed over their expected service life.

Build Your Own Solar Batch Water Heater, Florida Solar Energy Center, Public Information Office

FSEC Energy Research Center®

The solar batch water heater is a fun project for the do-it yourselfer and provides an inexpensive hot water source for the back yard workshop or weekend cabin, It is easy to construct, costs only about $70 to build and produces water temperatures as high as 150 degrees F.

Remember, the batch heater is not designed to operate with pressurized water system and should not be connected to a city water supply. If you are looking for such a system, consider manufactured solar systems, which have been designed to meet strict standards and aesthetic considerations.

Photovoltaic-Powered Lighting System For Overhead Highway Guide Signs, Florida Solar Energy Center, Public Information Office

FSEC Energy Research Center®

The problem: A safety hazard affected motorists traveling through a remote area in Brevard County near the St. Johns River on the eastbound Bee Line Expressway (S.R. 528). At that point the Bee Line splits, sending Titusville- bound motorists to the north, and Central Brevard- bound travelers to the south. Because of the high cost of extending utility service several miles from the nearest distribution point, the overhead guide signs were not illuminated, and at such a critical juncture on the 65-mph highway, it was difficult, if not impossible, to read them at night. The problem-solvers: Since 2.5 million vehicles …

Analysis Of Radiant Barrier Car Shade Performance: Preliminary Experiments And Proof Of Concept, Florida Solar Energy Center, Danny Parker

FSEC Energy Research Center®

The Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) has monitored several automobiles over the last two months in order to investigate how hot interior temperatures in parked cars might be reduced through the use of improved technology, car shades. We observed interior temperatures in un-shaded stationary automobiles in Cape Canaveral, Florida to commonly reach 150 °F and dashboard temperatures to rise to nearly 200 °F. We found the addition of a conventional cardboard car shade behind the automobile windshield on sunny days to reduce the interior air temperatures by an average of 15 °F. Dashboard temperatures were reduced by 40 °F.

We …

Hydrogen For Power Applications. Task 2: Storage Of Hydrogen In Solid, Liquid And Gaseous Forms. June 1988. 1 V., Florida Solar Energy Center, David L. Block

FSEC Energy Research Center®

This report provides a comprehensive account of the major developments and the issues of concern in the storage and handling of hydrogen in all three forms, namely, solid (as metal hydrides), liquid and gaseous. Keeping in mind that ground transportation has the potential to be the most obvious and widespread utilization vector for hydrogen, particular effort is made to compare alternative storage and handling systems of hydrogen with that of gasoline. Conclusions and recommendations are based on a systematic and unbiased analysis of the pros and cons of various storage and handling options for hydrogen, both demonstrated and projected.

Energy-Efficient Florida Home Building Manual (Revised 1992), Florida Solar Energy Center, Robin Vieira

FSEC Energy Research Center®

This manual presents practical, real-life recommendations on how to design and build homes in Florida. It contains information specific to our state's climate and lifestyles, rather than the overly general information found in most residential building publications. The book was developed in 1992 as an all-inclusive guide for anyone interested in constructing homes that are efficient. It is packed with information that will help you plan such homes, choose the best materials and products for the homes, and if you are a builder or developer - sell and profit from them. The files are all in PDF format. The file …

Theoretical & Computational Investigation Of Algorithms For Simultaneous Heat & Moisture Transport In Buildings. Task 2 Final Report, Milestone #218 & 220 Combined. Iv (Copies 1ref, 2,3), Florida Solar Energy Center, Alp Kerestecioglu

FSEC Energy Research Center®

In keeping with the national energy policy goal of fostering an adequate supply of energy at a reasonable cost, the United States Department of Energy (DOE) supports a variety of programs to promote a balanced and mixed energy resource system. The mission of the DOE Solar Buildings Research and Development Program is to support this goal, by providing for the development of solar technology alternatives for the buildings sector. It is the goal of the Program to establish a proven technology base to allow industry to develop solar products and designs for buildings that are economically competitive and can contribute …

Whole-Building Moisture Experiments And Data Analysis. Draft Task 1 Final Report, Milestone #219. February 5, 1988. 91 P., Florida Solar Energy Center, Adel A. Kamel

FSEC Energy Research Center®

For four months (August -November) in 1987 whole -building moisture capacitance experiments were done on a townhouse in Cocoa, Florida. The experiments were designed to: 1. Observe the response of a building to imposed moisture flux 2. Determine the moisture storage capacity of the building and furnishings 3. Evaluate simple models designed to predict the response of room air humidity ration to pulses of moisture 4. Assess two innovative approaches to cooling (off-peak cooling and DESRAD) The results of the tests indicated that moisture storage in the furnishings is much greater than moisture storage in the air. The bare building …

Rbs Technology: Task 3 Report, Florida Solar Energy Center, Philip W. Fairey

FSEC Energy Research Center®

The purpose of this report is to discuss the current state of attic radiant barrier system (RBS) technology. Concepts, research issues and experimental test results are presented and discussed.

Investigation Of Wear Of Materials By Laser Speckle Photography, Mohamed A. Seif

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This study utilizes a non-contact technique, laser speckle photography, to measure deformations associated with sliding wear. These deformations are those which occur on the "side" of a rectangular-section pin which is in sliding contact against a counterface disc. The "side" of the pin is illuminated by a pulsed ruby laser beam, and a double exposure specklegram is made to obtain deformations which occur between laser pulses. So, by appropriately sequencing pulses, deformation histories can be obtained, in situ. Since the exposed "side" of the thin pin specimen represents the "cover" layer under which subsurface sections lie, the deformation history observable …

Radiant Barriers: A Question And Answer Primer, Florida Solar Energy Center, Philip W. Fairey

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Attic radiant barriers made of aluminum foil are becoming a popular way for homeowners to save energy and money in Southern states. They are increasing in popularity for two reasons. First, tests by the Florida Solar Energy Center and other groups show that they work. Second, manufacturers are improving the quality of radiant barrier materials.

To most homeowners, attic radiant barriers are a new energy conservation concept; many of them have questions about how radiant barriers work and how to use them. This Energy Note answers some of the most commonly asked questions. It also recommends ways to install radiant …

Procedures For Calculating Natural Ventilation Airflow Rates In Buildings. 03-87, Florida Solar Energy Center, Subrato Chandra

FSEC Energy Research Center®

This is the final report of ASHRAE research project 448-RP "Building Pressure Distribution for Natural Ventilation" initiated in October 1985. The objective of the research was to review the worldwide data on building pressure coefficient and to assimilate the data for use in hourly calculation of natural ventilation airflow rates in buildings. This report is organized in two parts. Part 1 is written for the user who wants to use the information. Part 2 provides the background and research data analysis which was conducted to come up with the Part 1 information.

Field Data Delivery - Thermal Performance Field Monitoring Of Various Conservation Construction Techniques. Final Report, Florida Solar Energy Center, Charles Cromer

FSEC Energy Research Center®

No abstract provided.

Heat Pipe Application Program, Florida Solar Energy Center, Mukesh Khattar

FSEC Energy Research Center®

The Florida Solar Energy Center has begun a project to develop a high efficiency air conditioner/dehumidifier using heat pipes between the warm return and cold supply air streams. Such systems will save energy in hot, humid climates.

Radiant Energy Transfer And Radiant Barrier Systems In Buildings, Florida Solar Energy Center, Philip W. Fairey

FSEC Energy Research Center®

In Florida and other southern climates we depend on a number of strategies to keep heat out of buildings. Mostly, these affect heat gains by conduction or convection. In the average house, insulating walls and ceilings primarily restricts conduction. Double-glazed windows restrict both conductive and convective heat gain. We have largely ignored radiation - the third means of heat transfer - except in using window treatments and coatings that reflect, absorb or shade from solar energy. But research points to exciting potential for reducing heat gain in buildings by controlling radiation transfer in walls and ceilings through the use of …

Techniques For Shading Residential Walls And Windows, Florida Solar Energy Center, Philip W. Fairey

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Solar radiation is a major heat source in buildings - welcome in cold weather but a summertime problem. Florida's long cooling season and short heating season increase the importance of protecting windows, walls and sliding glass doors during hot weather, while still permitting solar heat to enter a building during cold weather. cooling and heating energy savings of 10% - 20% are possible through good shading strategies. Properly designed roof overhangs can provide adequate sun protection, especially for south-facing surfaces. Vertical shading devices such as trees, trellises, trellised vines, shutters, shading screens awnings and exterior roll blinds are also effective. …

Solar Water Heater Troubleshooting Checklist, Florida Solar Energy Center

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Lists the Symptom, Component, Possible Cause, and Remedy/Check of possible solar hot water heater problems.

Solar Ovens And Cookers, Florida Solar Energy Center

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Solar ovens work much like solar collectors used in domestic water heating systems. Both collect solar radiation, convert it to heat and transfer it to another substance. Solar ovens, however, focus the sun's rays with reflective surfaces on one point. The object of the sun's energy in the solar oven is the food.

Recipes For Solar Cooking, Florida Solar Energy Center, Jo Townsend

FSEC Energy Research Center®

As energy extension agent for the University of Florida Extension Service, Jo Townsend serves as the energy educator to small businesses in central Florida. She conducts employee programs on energy conservation in the workplace. She received her B.S. in home economics from Florida State University and her M.E. from the University of Central Florida. Formerly a home economist for the Florida cooperative Extension Service, Townsend researched and tested recipes for use in microwaves when they first gained popularity. She has been a consultant to Southern Living magazine and to Florida's seafood industry. For the last year, she has tested recipes …

Cooling With Ventilation, Florida Solar Energy Center, Subrato Chandra

FSEC Energy Research Center®

In keeping with the national energy policy goal of fostering an adequate supply of energy at a reasonable cost, the United States Department of Energy (DOE) supports a variety of programs to promote a balanced and mixed energy resource system. The mission of the DOE Solar Building Research and Development Program is to support this goal by providing for the development of solar technology alternatives for the buildings sector. It is the goal of the Program to establish a proven technology base to allow industry to develop solar products and designs for buildings that are economically competitive and can contribute …

Latent And Sensible Load Distributions In Conventional And Energy Efficient Residences. Final Report, January 1983 - January 1986. 05-86., Florida Solar Energy Center, Alp Kerestecioglu

FSEC Energy Research Center®

To develop a method to characterize the cooling load distributions in conventional and energy efficient residences, specifically as related to building dehumidification loads, as they pertain to the potential for the use of gas-fired dehumidification and cooling equipment.

A Performance Comparison Of Solar Radiation Predictive Models For Both Fixed And Tracking Surfaces, William F. Marion

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Accurate performance prediction for a system utilizing solar energy requires accurate estimates of the solar radiation received by the collector surface. This thesis compares the performance of five different diffuse solar radiation models in estimating the diffuse radiation received by a tilted surface in the warm, humid climate of Central Florida.

The following models were studied: Isotropic Model, Temps and Coulson Model, Klucher Model, Hay Model, and Perez Model. The models were evaluated for both a fixed south facing surface and for three different tracking schemes suitable for photovoltaic applications. Model estimates were then compared to the solar radiation data …

Air Conditioner Fan Speed Controller For Comfort And Dehumidification, Florida Solar Energy Center, Mukesh Khattar

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Air conditioners perform the dual functions of cooling and dehumidifying. Many air conditioner units do not adequately dehumidify the air in Florida's humid climate. The quest for higher energy efficiency ratings (EER) has produced units that perform poorly in moisture removal. What follows is a simple and cheap method to increase the moisture removal performance of any air conditioner.

Fans To Reduce Cooling Costs In The Southeast, Florida Solar Energy Center, Subrato Chandra

FSEC Energy Research Center®

During the hot, humid summer months in the southeastern U. S., air conditioning costs are a substantial part of the average home's utility bill. In Florida, for example, air conditioning accounts for about 30 percent of the annual utility bill for an all electric house. Fans can help lower air conditioning costs.

There are three generic types of fans to reduce summer air conditioning costs: air circulating fans to create air motion which increases comfort, whole house fans to promote fresh air exchange, and attic vent fans to lower attic temperatures.

Window Treatment For Energy Conservation, Florida Solar Energy Center, Ross Mccluney

FSEC Energy Research Center®

This Energy Note gives the non-technical reader a clear look at windows - how to get the most from them in cooling, heating, ventilating and illuminating the home. Although most of the points are applicable anywhere in the country, emphasis is on summer solar heat gain experienced in buildings in Florida. Two common features of Southern building style are large window areas to let the light and breezes in, and shading devices or window films to keep the hot sunshine out. This energy note addresses design guidelines and strategies as well as shading devices and window films for existing windows.

Designing And Installing Radiant Barrier Systems, Florida Solar Energy Center, Philip W. Fairey

FSEC Energy Research Center®

A radiant barrier system is, in general, a layer of foil facing an airspace, installed in the envelope of a building. Such systems are very effective in impeding radiant heat transfer and consequent heat gain, especially in southern residences. Before designing and installing a radiant barrier system, you should become familiar with the concept of radiant energy transfer. Design Note 6, Radiant Energy Transfer and Radiant Barrier Systems in Buildings, is required reading if you are not familiar with this concept.

Solar Distillation Of Water, Florida Solar Energy Center, Ross Mccluney

FSEC Energy Research Center®

The Florida Solar Energy Center receives frequent requests for information about solar distillation for purifying water. Distillations is one of many processes available for water purification, and sunlight is one of several forms of heat energy that can be used to power that process. Sunlight has the advantage of zero fuel cost but it requires more space (for its collection) and generally more costly equipment.

To dispel a common belief, it is not necessary to boil water to distill it. Simply elevating its temperature, short of boiling, will adequately increase the evaporation rate. In fact, although vigorous boiling hastens the …

Sun Position In Florida, Florida Solar Energy Center, Ross Mccluney

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Described herein is a procedure for determining the path of the sun through the Florida sky relative to a solar collector array, a window, a skylight or an entire building - information needed by architects, engineers and others for shading and orientation calculations involved in active and passive building design. It can be used for positioning exterior shading devices for maximum benefit. This information can also be used to pinpoint solar collector shading problems.

Open-Cycle Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion, Florida Solar Energy Center, Magdy Girgis

FSEC Energy Research Center®

In May 1983 the Florida Solar Energy Center(FSEC) received $ 328,000 from the federal Solar Energy Research Institute in Colorado to determine the feasibility of an Open-Cycle Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) concept. The objective of the project is to assess the economic and technological viability of the conceptual design of an Open Cycle OTEC power plant. FSEC and Create R&D Inc., Hanover, New Hampshire, bring together complementary skills and experience in resource assessment, component design, system engineering and project management. FSEC also will study possible sites for an OTEC plant in Florida as part of a complementary project funded …