Evaluating the performance of a low Reynold's number turbulence model for describing mixed-flow airspeed and temperature distributions

The effectiveness of a three-dimensional mixed-flow turbulence model describing airspeed and temperature distribution in a laboratory scale slot-ventilated chamber was evaluated. Airspeed and temperature profiles were investigated near the inlet jet region and along an axial line extending from the inlet. The observed jet-floor impingement location was accurately predicted, with a maximum difference of 18% (Δx/L = 0.18). Average building temperature as a function of the inlet corrected Archimedes Number was also accurately predicted. Differences between measured and predicted values were 5.0% or less. Airspeed and temperature profiles near the inlet and along an axial line from the inlet were compared and large localized errors were found.