Underfloor & Displacement: Why They're Not the Same

摘要

Underfloor air distribution (UFAD) and displacement ventilation (DV) often are considered synonyms for describing an air distribution system that uses a raised access floor plenum. However, just because the supply air is delivered into a room or space from an access floor does not necessarily mean it is a DV system. To apply these air delivery systems properly, building design professionals must understand the difference between the two systems. Confusion occurs at the area of overlap between the two systems. A UFAD system designed to create a stratified condition in a space works in a similar fashion as a DV system in terms of overall air movement. However, it does not necessarily work in the same way for space comfort control and local air delivery. This article presents an overview of each system and then draws a clear line between the "labels" of these two types of air systems (in terms of how they work in different applications for commercial buildings).