Author(s)

H. Desplats & M. Gueguen

Abstract

Finite element modelling of low energy consumption self-regulating heating floor H. Desplats & M. Gueguen Laboratoire de Gknie Mkcanique et Matkriaux, Centre de Recherche Sciences de I'lngknieul; 56325 LORIENT Cedex, France Abstract Computer models for analyzing heat transfer have been developed for the thermal analysis of a self-regulating heating floor. Self-regulation is due to the conductive polymer composite cables: they are good conductors at low temperatures, and electrical insulators when the temperature increases. The first calculations, with a two dimensional finite element code, were performed on a piece (one meter square) of heating floating floor made of high density fibre board, under which self-regulating heating cables were placed. The diffusive effect of the aluminium sheet placed between the cables and fibre board is shown. Different widths and thicknesses were tested. Results of the surface temperature are in good agreement with experimentation. In the second phase, a finit

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