Aquatic Center – Haut de Seine
CFD simulation of an aquatic center
This study analyzes thermal and aerodynamic conditions within an aquatic center, with the aim of guaranteeing user comfort and energy efficiency. The aim is to check air velocities inside the space to ensure that they do not exceed thresholds that could cause discomfort for users. At the same time, the study aims to analyze temperature distribution within the hall to confirm that target temperatures have been reached, as well as the ability of the walls to provide adequate thermal insulation. However, the major challenge remains the assessment of the risk of condensation on surfaces, particularly at wall level, which could lead to significant moisture problems and affect the durability of the structure.
This space is characterized by a warm, humid environment (around 27°C-28°C and 60-65%RH), with water evaporation and condensation phenomena influencing heat transfer and occupant comfort.
Aquatic Center - Haut de Seine
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Digital modeling of the aquatic center
Geometry and modeling of the aquatic center
To ensure accurate simulations, theprecise geometry of each element in the enclosure was meticulously modeled in 3D. This enabled simulations to be run that faithfully reflected reality, taking into account the position of each beam and material present in the model. This made it possible to visualize and analyze condensation zones in the basin enclosure.
Model walls and materials
Opaque and glazed walls play a crucial role in heat exchange between the inside of the pool and the outside environment. Opaque materials (such as concrete, brick or insulation walls) and glazed surfaces (windows or skylights) have very different thermal properties (thermal conductivity, insulating capacity), which affect the way heat is retained or dissipated. A well-defined system can accurately simulate temperature distribution in a building.
In our study, both opaque and glazed walls are taken into account and simulated with precise heat exchange coefficients. This makes it possible to accurately model thermal exchanges, check insulation efficiency and anticipate condensation risks, thus guaranteeing user comfort and optimized energy management.
Blowing and return principles in the pool hall
In an aquatic center, ventilation is essential to maintain a comfortable indoor climate, manage humidity and prevent condensation. It generally relies on an air supply and return system designed to ensure good air circulation while controlling temperatures and humidity levels. The supply air system distributes fresh air throughout the hall. This is often done by diffusers or grilles located on the ceiling or near sensitive areas, such as glass surfaces, to minimize cold draughts. The return system draws stale, humid air into a treatment system for renewal. Return air grilles are generally placed close to the floor or in strategic areas where humidity tends to accumulate, such as near ponds.
Ventilation systems in swimming pools are designed to direct air into fluid circuits that ensure good distribution without generating annoying turbulence. CFD studies can then be used to optimize the location of supply and return grilles to guarantee efficient, comfortable airflow.
CFD study for the design of an aquatic center
Carrying out a CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) study for an aquatic center or swimming pool is essential for maximizing user comfort andenergy efficiency. This analysis models the distribution of temperatures and air flows, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere without unpleasant draughts. By identifying the risk of condensation in a high-humidity environment, the study helps to optimize ventilation and prevent humidity problems. It also helps assess the efficiency of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, reducing energy consumption andensuring constant comfort. By meeting strict air quality and humidity standards, CFD also facilitates regulatory compliance.
In short, a CFD study for an aquatic center is a powerful tool for guaranteeing both comfort and safety,
security, energy savings and sustainability by optimizing design, thermal andand energy
ventilation.
Results of CFD studies for the aquatic center
Air speed distribution
Air velocities in areas frequented by users, particularly around the pool and bleachers, must be low to avoid thermal discomfort caused by draughts. It is also important to check that air velocities are evenly distributed in the hall, as good ventilation must ensure fluid circulation without creating stagnation zones. In this study, some air velocities appear to be a little too high in places, particularly at air intakes, and could pose a risk of discomfort.
What’s more, the air blown close to glass surfaces and walls must be sufficient to avoid condensation while maintaining optimum comfort levels. In this case, the floor-mounted blowers blow directly onto the glass walls of the hall, which is optimal. Walls higher up, on the other hand, are less swept and could constitute areas at risk of condensation.
Temperature distribution
The comfort of pool users depends to a large extent on the ambient air temperature. An optimal temperature, generally between 28 and 30 degrees Celsius, creates a pleasant atmosphere that promotes a pleasant swimming experience. Air that’s too cold can cause thermal shock on exiting the water, making swimmers feel uncomfortable, while a temperature that’s too high can make you feel suffocated and tired. By maintaining the right ambient temperature, bathing establishments not only guarantee the well-being of users, but also their safety, by minimizing the risks associated with temperature variations. Adequate ventilation and well-conditioned rest areas complete this approach, contributing to a relaxing and enjoyable bathing experience.
It is crucial to check that the temperature in occupied areas by users, especially around the pool and bleachers, is uniform and complies with recommended target temperatures. Proper distribution should avoid areas that are too hot or too cold, which could lead to discomfort. In this study, the temperature throughout the hall is homogeneous and meets the target temperature. The air temperature near the points of blow-molding and return is consistent with thermal control objectives.
Wall temperature study - condensation risks
Assessing the risk of condensation in a swimming pool is crucial for several interconnected reasons. Firstly, it helps prevent potential structural damage, as condensation on walls, ceilings and other surfaces can lead to moisture build-up, damaging building materials and compromising the durability of the infrastructure. Secondly, good humidity management is essential for maintaining hygiene and air quality; excessive humidity encourages the proliferation of mold and fungi, which can adversely affect the health of users.
In addition, an excessively humid environment can cause discomfort for bathers, notably by making surfaces slippery and reducing visibility through glass surfaces. At the same time, poor condensation management can lead to energy inefficiency, requiring increased heating and ventilation consumption to maintain comfortable conditions, thus increasing operating costs.
In short, a thorough analysis of condensation risk is essential to guarantee not only the long-term viability of the infrastructure, but also the well-being and safety of users, while optimizing the associated costs.
In this study, the principles of supply and return flow ensure uniform sweeping of almost the entire pool hall. However, the temperature on some walls is too cold, which poses several major risks. Surfaces that are too cold can lead to condensation problemsThis can lead to structural damage and mold growth, affecting indoor air quality and user health. What’s more, these cold zones can create unpleasant draughts that affect user comfort, making the experience less pleasant.
The CFD study is particularly relevant in this case, as it enables thermal distribution to be accurately modeled and analyzed. Thanks to this approach, it is possible to identify problem areas, simulate different ventilation scenarios and optimize the design of heating and ventilation systems to achieve the right thermal balance. By preventing the risks associated with excessively cold walls, the CFD study helps to ensure a healthy, comfortable environment for all users of the aquatic center.
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Video summary of the study
Video summary of the study
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