HEAT3
Three-dimensional transient and steady-state heat conduction within objects that can be described in a rectangular grid. HEAT3 can be used for analyses of thermal bridges, heat transfer through corners of a window, heat loss from a house to the ground, to mention a few applications. Arbitrary thermal properties and initial temperatures can be specified. HEAT3 can handle such internal modifications as heat sources and internal boundaries of prescribed temperature.
Keywords
heat transfer, three-dimensional heat conduction, transient heat flow, steady-state heat flow
Validation/Testing
The program is validated against the standard EN ISO 10211. See http://www.buildingphysics.com/index-filer/ISOValidation.htm.
Expertise Required
High level of computer literacy not required; engineering background is required.
Users
Over 500 (most of them are within universities and research institutes).
Audience
Building physics, mechanical, energy, architect/engineer firms, consulting firms, federal agencies, research universities, and research laboratories.
Input
Building geometry, thermal characteristics, external and internal loads, heat sources, etc. A three-dimensional figure is drawn that shows geometry, numerical cells, and boundary conditions. The figure may be rotated in space and details of particular interest can be enlarged (zoom).
Output
Temperatures and heat flows. Extensive graphical capabilities: figures showing geometry, numerical mesh, boundary conditions, surface or internal temperature field can be rotated in space, and details of particular interest can be enlarged.
Computer Platform
PC running Windows 95/98 or NT with 16 MB RAM (125000 nodes). One million nodes require 48 MB RAM.
Programming Language
32-bit PASCAL
Strengths
Well-documented and well-tested program. For a reasonably complicated case, 10-15 minutes work is sufficient for an experienced user to describe the geometry, the numerical mesh, and the boundary conditions. Fast execution (32-bit code). Large problems with one million computational nodes may be solved on a PC.
Weaknesses
Input data given in a text file (but may be checked by three-dimensional images). Cartesian coordinates must be used (sloped boundaries are modelled using 'steps').
Contact
Company: |
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Address: |
Iliongraenden 159 |
Facsimile: |
+46 (46) 136264 |
E-mail: |
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Website: |
Availability
Software price $500. HEAT2 and HEAT3 package price: $600. Multiple licenses available at lower costs. Contact Blocon for special prices for educational licenses. Complete manual and light version with 3375 nodes (15x15x15) nodes are free to download from website. USA fax +1 (617) 788-0200.