Full-scale measurements of convective coefficient on external surface of a low-rise building in sheltered conditions

Heat transfer from the surface of a building constitutes a substantial proportion of its annual heating energy demand, and is made up of radiative and convective components. The convective component varies with wind speed, and in this work a series of experimental measurements were made in the field to estimate the value of the convective heat transfer under a range of conditions. A low-rise building was used for the measurements, and strong correlations were obtained between the wind speed and the convective heat transfer coefficient. These results were analysed on a directional basis and with respect to the location of the wind speed measurements, and a series of correlations are presented which compare well with existing data. These will be of use in estimating heat transfer from a building. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.