Topic 1: Principles of Ventilation
This module begins with an introduction to ventilation and airflow modelling. It revises and build on the material covered in the Energy in Buildings module, dealing with topics such as purpose of ventilation, required ventilation rates according to building regulations and methods of achieving ventilation. All methods of ventilation are discussed (mechanical, natural, hybrid and air conditioning), but attention focuses on natural and hybrid. 'Rules-of-thumb' design methods are presented, e.g. effective plan depth of ventilation and heat gain limitations. The impact of ventilation on indoor air quality/thermal comfort is considered.

Topic 2: Theory of Natural Ventilation
The mathematical theory of natural ventilation is presented in such a way that it can be used as a simplified prediction technique for approximating air flow rates. Methods for determining the driving pressures due to wind and stack effect and designing openings based on these prevailing forces are presented. The orifice flow, the crack flow equation, discharge and loss coefficients and resistance of components are considered.

Topic 3: Hybrid Ventilation
The definition and principles of hybrid ventilation are presented. The unit develops some of the mechanical ventilation concepts studied in the Energy in Buildings module. The focus is on how natural and mechanical ventilation may be combined in hybrid systems to meet environmental criteria. The potential applications of such systems are explored. Most of the material is presented in the form of case studies, both from the UK and overseas.

Topic 4: Zonal Airflow Modelling
An introduction to airflow modelling is presented. This includes: the purpose of airflow modelling, the range of simulation techniques, computing resources and validation. The unit then focuses on inter-zone (or network) airflow modelling. The theory of such models is presented, covering driving forces, resistances and boundary conditions. Worked examples are presented, which include model definition, interpretation and presentation of results.

Topic 5: Computational Fluid Dynamics
A brief introduction to - and discussion of the development of - CFD techniques is presented. Details of the theoretical basis are given, including: the governing equations, turbulence modelling, solution techniques, mesh design, boundary condition specification and convergence. Workshops and self-study exercises enable students to gain experience of constructing CFD models, analysing and presenting results and developing an understanding of solution techniques.