Louvers are a ventilation system. They allow for air to pass through windows. At the same time as allowing for air flow, they also keep unwanted elements out, such as dirt and water. Exterior or architectural louvers are able to due this because of their design. A
exterior louver is a fixed or operable blade that is mounted to a frame, this structure allows for air flow. They are an important part of any residential or commercial property, providing protection from the elements, yet adding a flare to a building.
Factors
These factors that must be taken into consideration include free area, water penetration, and resistance to airflow. By properly configuring the free area as well as the water penetration the pressure loss, or resistance to airflow can be determined. This will allow for the best solution in terms of installing louvers.
Free Area
Free area is an important aspect to consider when thinking about installing louvers. The free area is calculated by determining the total area of the obstructed air flow in comparison to the overall wall opening. The complete louvered opening versus the unobstructed opening will most often fall within the ranges of 35% to 60%. A high percentage of free area is very beneficial. This will allow for an optimized amount of air flow to a smaller wall opening.
Obstruction
Some obstruction is needed in order to keep unwanted water out. A full obstructed opening would allow for no water to enter, while a totally unobstructed opening would allow for water to enter unhindered. A louver that is properly designed will be able to maximize the free area while at the same time allowing for a minuscule amount of water to enter.
Water Penetration
To establish the water penetration of a louver, the air intake velocity must be determined. The first point of water penetration is the point at which a louver will let water pass through the louver. By taking the threshold measurement of the air intake velocity the proper penetration will be considered. By factoring in water penetration the proper louver can be installed.
Pressure Loss
Any obstruction to the air stream will cause a resistance. This includes louvers, filters, coils, ductwork, and even the structure of the building. The actual resistance provided by the louver is calculated by measuring the air that run thought the louver while also calculating the pressure difference at any given free area velocity.
Aerodynamics
All
exterior architectural louver create a resistance. This resistance is based upon the frame of the louver as well as the shape of the blade. Lower blade angles or those that have more aerodynamic shapes will create less resistance. In order to fully consider the resistance to airflow the free area velocity allowed by the louver must be calculated. It is important to consider the resistance as well as minimize it, as it can be detrimental to the application of flans or other air moving equipment.
More Information:
The
exterior louvers are a great asset to any residential or commercial property. There are many types of louvers; there are motorized wood louvers as well as
sun control louvers.
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