Phase 2: Miniature sensor for resistanceless measurement of air velocities in ventilation ducts

his project is a continuation of the pilot project 251-020. The projects are on a new sensor type for measuring airflows. The sensor is based on Micro Electro-Mechanical System, MEMS, and the sensor is called EFV, Elastic Filament Velocimetry.

Replacing existing measuring crosses in a ventilation system with the new sensor type can lead to a reduction of the energy requirement for ventilation of at least 20% depending on the number of measuring crosses in the system. In addition, improved indoor climate can be achieved, as the EFV sensors make it possible to control the airflows more precisely.

The EFV sensor is developed at Princeton University, New Jersey, USA. The sensor is designed for measuring fluid flow in medical technology. In the pilot project the EFV sensor has been modified for measuring air flows in ventilation ducts.

Through simulations and laboratory tests the characteristics of the EFV sensors have been identified. In this project correction factors are being determined making in possible, unlike conventional sensors, to place the sensors in the duct system independent of bends and dimension changes.

Based on the results of the pilot project the objective of this project is to investigate the performance of the sensors in practice in a building, which will be selected in collaboration with Bygningsstyrelsen, and demonstrate the expected energy savings.

Reporting will be through scientific articles, a PhD dissertation, a function description and installation guide, an article in the HVAC magazine and a presentation at Danvak-dagen.