A European standard, EN 12114, defines a test method for determining the air permeability of building components or structural elements when exposed to positive or negative air pressure differences. This standard also includes descriptions, test equipment and instructions explaining the procedure and interpretation of results. The standard appendices contain indications about test conditions and a method for expressing results. However, this standard does not apply to all buildings or to on-site measurements.
The resistance of building components and structural elements to heavy rain and their airtightness are legally mandated. However, consumers often demand even stricter requirements for airtightness. The physical condition regarding the tightness of joints is complex. For example, the movement of particles within the joint is important as a dynamic flow. Sealing is dependent on convection, that is, heat transfer within a fluid due to the displacement of molecules. Convection is the transport of materials or physical properties due to the diffusion movement of particles. In a closed system, diffusion allows for the separation of different concentrations. The effect of different gaps or sealing materials for different types of joints is determined by applying the test method described in the EN 12114 standard.
Ventilation accounts for a significant portion of heat loss in winter, necessitating the minimization of airflow. However, ensuring indoor air quality, user safety, and controlling the risk of condensation are absolutely essential. Generally, ventilation is responsible for an average of 30-40% of the energy consumption used for air conditioning in buildings. Air exchange rates vary greatly from country to country, and the minimum value takes into account comfort, sensory, and hygrothermal criteria.
Air permeability tests are carried out to characterize the air permeability of buildings and components. The data obtained is particularly useful for improving the design of building components, for example windows and shutter boxes, and for performing simulations with reliable data.
Among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors, our organization also provides air permeability testing services of building components and building elements for the thermal performance of buildings, within the scope of EN 12114 standard, with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment. .
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