Field Study of a Multi-Rise Solar Chimney Buildings

This paper present investigation on field performance of solar chimney (SC) integrated in multi-storey buildings. To this end, two small scale models of a three storey building were built. The floor dimensions of each storey are 1.2x2xl m. Solar chimneys were integrated into the south-faced walls of one unit whereas the other unit served as a reference. Two design configurations were considered including connected and non-connected solar chimney. The first is a tall SC with an inlet opening at each floor and one outlet opening at the third floor. While with the second, is a tall SC but with an inlet and outlet opening at each floor. Data recorded included room temperature, air gap temperature and velocity of the induced air flow in the solar chimney. Comparison between the solar chimney model and common model demonstrated that multi-storey solar chimney is a good alternative. Room temperature of the solar chimney model was lower than the room temperature of the other model by about 4-5℃. The best configuration is that with inlet opening at each floor and one outlet opening at the third floor. Therefore multi-storey solar chimney is extremely an interesting option for hot climate like in Thailand to save energy and environment.