As far as I know, ASHRAE 90.1 U-values include the air film. You can check ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix A typical constructions. i.e., for steel framed walls, the U-Value includes R-0.12 for exterior air film, and around R-0.03 for interior. Therefore, in EnergyPlus, I always subtract the film since the constructions do not include air films in the software. So in E+ a wall around U-0.287 should meet ASHRAE code compliance for U-0.275.
Cheers,
Marcus
--- In
EnergyPlus_Support@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, "Xing" <xing.shi.2006@...> wrote:
>
> Hi! Dr. Li. I understand the differences between U and R and what the surface film is for. I guess what I am not sure about is this 0.272 W/m2-K is for wall assembly with or without surface film.
>
> Let's say we design a
wall with a U-value (not including surface film) of 0.275 W/m2-K. Apparent, it is larger than 0.272, which means that it does not meet the ASHRAE minimum requirement. However, with exterior and interior surface films added, the U-value may be down to 0.270, now meeting the requirement.
>
> I know this is a little hair-splitting. But if you would kindly answer, I very much appreciate it.
>
>
>
> --- In
EnergyPlus_Support@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, YuanLu Li <yli006@> wrote:
> >
> >
> > Hi, Xing 0.272 W/m2-K U-value is only a guide for minimum requirement. The film is required to prevent moisture condensation on the insulating material. I think, this U value is equivalent to R4. The current minimum for Toronto is R8. The usual value used is R12, The
ceiling is R20 and above. A two storey residential house with a basement, and with these insulation hardly need any heating in Winter. When you use the R-value, the resultant is simply added together. When you use U-value, it will be 1/(1/U1 + 1/U2). Therefore, the one with large U-value can be ignored. You need to consider the thickness of the material as well to make the calculation for the resultant U-value, using the conductance value. In EPlus material, I think the value of conductance is given. The material with a low conductance is a better heat insulator Dr. Li
> > To:
EnergyPlus_Support@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> > From: xing.shi.2006@
> > Date: Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:44:33 +0000
> > Subject: [EnergyPlus_Support] ASHRAE 90.1 U-factor with or without surface film
> >
>
>
> > ASHRAE 90.1-2007 Table 5.5-3 require that U-value of exterior wall shall be 0.272 W/m2-K. E+ provides U-values with and without film. Which one should match 0.272? We think it should be the U-value without film. Are we right?
> >
> >
> >
> > Thanks!