Computer Thermal Simulations
With so much focus on reducing energy demands and increased enforcement on stringent energy codes on new construction, determining the energy performance on windows, doors, curtain walls, and other fenestration products is critical to consumers, manufacturers, builders, and architects who rely on product thermal performance to save energy. W.J. Higgins and Associates has on staff a NFRC approved certified simulator to produce or evaluate thermal performance values on fenestration products to ensure products can meet industry expectations.
Value of Thermal Modeling
WJH&A assists clients in determining thermal performance best practice designs to certifying thermal performance ratings on new or existing products. Our staff has gained the experience to become NFRC certified simulators. They work closely with NFRC accredited thermal test laboratories on simulation validation. Utilizing the most current software technology available, our experienced staff performs two dimensional thermal models on all types of fenestration cross sections to determine overall U-factors, SHGC, VT, and CR values. Our staff has the ability to perform R&D analysis, utilizing the component modeling approach CMA and utilize NFRC’s CMAST program to produce thermal performance values on design build construction projects or expedite the CMA process to receive a certified NFRC rated CMA certificate. We work direct with manufacturers of frames, IGU spacers, and glass and will consult with specifying authorities, test laboratories, Approved Calculation Entities (ACE), 3rd party validation Inspection Agencies (IA), NFRC and Accredited Simulation Laboratories (ASL).
Simulation Software: Therm 6.3, Window 6.3, Optics 5, CMAST
Procedures and Methods:
- NFRC 100 – Procedure for Determining Fenestration Product U-factors
- NFRC 101 – Procedure for Determining Thermophysical Properties of Materials For Use in NFRC-Approved Software Programs
- NFRC 102 – Procedure for Measuring the Steady-State Thermal Transmittance of Fenestration Systems
- NFRC 200 – Procedure for Determining Fenestration Product Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and Visible Transmittance at Normal Incidence
- NFRC 201 – Procedure for Interim Standard Test Method for Measuring the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of Fenestration Systems Using Calorimetry Hot Box Methods
- NFRC 300 – Test Method for Determining the Solar Optical Properties of Glazing Materials and Systems
- NFRC 303 – Constructing a Laminate in Optics5
- NFRC 304 – Creating an Applied Film Layer in Optics for NFRC Certification
- NFRC 400 – Procedure for Determining Fenestration Product Air Leakage
- NFRC 500 – Procedure for Determining Fenestration Product Condensation Resistance Values
- NFRC 501 – User Guide to the Procedure for Determining Fenestration Product Condensation Resistance Rating Values
- NFRC CMA and CMAST: Component Modeling Approach; Procedure to Determine Performance Rating Using Glazing, Frame and Spacer Components for Commercial Products.
- AAMA 1503 – Simulated Condensation Resistance Factor
- AAMA 507-07 – Determining the Thermal Performance Characteristics of Fenestration Systems Installed in Commercial Buildings
