Study

Run Period

In the context of hygrothermal simulation, a run period refers to the duration of time for which the simulation is conducted. This can range from hours to years, depending on the goals of the simulation and the temporal resolution needed for the analysis. The length of the run period can significantly impact the results of the simulation, as different timescales can capture different dynamics.

Select the preferred run period length in years to set the run period. Five years can be chosen for a well-designed wall system or in the early design stages. For all other systems, ten years should be chosen.

Included Reports

Reports are available for Dew Point, Water Content, Mould Growth, and Relative Humidity. A report is a simulation with post-processed results to simplify the understanding of hygrothermal results.

Dew Point

The dew point is the temperature at which air becomes saturated with water vapour and dew can form. In hygrothermal modelling, understanding the dew point is crucial, as it can help predict where condensation might occur within a building structure. When the temperature of a surface drops below the dew point of the surrounding air, water vapour from the air condenses onto that surface, which can lead to problems like dampness, mould growth, and material degradation.

Water Content

Water Content refers to the amount of water present in a wall system. In the context of hygrothermal modelling, this could be the water in the air (humidity), or the water absorbed or adsorbed by the building materials. Understanding the water content in materials is essential because it influences the thermal properties of materials, can lead to the degradation of materials, and plays a significant role in the development of conditions favourable for biological growths like mould.

Mould Growth

Mould Growth refers to the potential for mould to develop in certain conditions within a building. Mould growth is generally influenced by factors such as temperature, relative humidity, and the presence of organic material for mould to feed upon. The presence of mould can degrade materials and negatively impact indoor air quality, posing potential health risks.

Relative Humidity

Relative Humidity in the context of hygrothermal simulations refers to the amount of moisture in a material compared to the maximum amount of moisture the air could hold at that temperature, expressed as a percentage. When relative humidity reaches > 85%, the potential for condensation and mould growth begins within building structures.