Economic Analysis and Optimization of Exterior Insulation Requirements for Ventilated Buildings at Power Generation Facilities with High Internal Heat Gain

Abstract

Industrial buildings require a large amount of heating and ventilation equipment to maintain the indoor environment within acceptable levels for personnel protection and equipment protection. The required heating and ventilation equipment is impacted by the amount of insulation installed in the exterior envelope of the building. This research paper describes a method of determining the optimal level of insulation based on satisfying the client or project goals by minimizing the up front capital expenditures, minimizing energy use or maximizing return on investment.