A58 -- Room Air Distribution (I-P)

Room air distribution systems, like other HVAC systems, are intended to achieve required thermal comfort and ventilation for space occupants and processes. Although air terminals (inlets and outlets), terminal units, local ducts, and the rooms themselves may affect room air distribution, this chapter addresses only air terminals and their effect on occupant comfort. This chapter is intended to help HVAC designers apply air distribution systems to occupied spaces, providing information on characteristics of various air distribution strategies, and tools and guidelines for applications and system design. Naturally ventilated spaces are not addressed; see Chapter 16 of the 2021 ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals for details. Also see Chapter 20 of the 2021 ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals for more information on space air diffusion; Chapter 20 of the 2020 ASHRAE Handbook—HVAC Systems and Equipment for information on room air distribution equipment; and Chapter 49 of this volume for sound and vibration control guidance. Application Guidelines Fully Mixed Air Distribution Fully Stratified Air Distribution Partially Mixed Air Distribution Air Dispersion Systems Air Terminal Units (ATUs) Room Fan-Coil Units Heating and Cooling Coil Selection Chilled Beams Air Curtain Units.