An Experimental Evaluation of the Internal Flow Field of an Automotive Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning System

Abstract : A diagnostic study of the internal flow field of a typical automotive heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC) was conducted. This study consisted of four primary experiments designed to provide a fairly complete description of the governing flow mechanisms. These efforts were aimed at determining the flow paths and sources of inefficiency within the ductwork, as well as identifying possible flow-induced noise sources. Because the root of system inefficiency and noise is the Forward Curved (FC) centrifugal blower, emphasis was placed on determining the blade passage and volute flow of this unit. The goal of this thesis is to present information which may aid in the future design of automotive HVAC systems. Keywords: Automotive vehicles; Air conditioning equipment; Heating; Ventilation.