Analysis of heat flow in composite structures used in window installation

Abstract In the paper, the influence of sill beam material and its construction on heat flow through an external wall with a window was analysed. Such beams are used as the support elements in window installation in the thermal insulation layer. The beams were made of fibre-reinforced polyurethane composites. Some of them were reinforced with metal profiles. Taking into consideration the material properties such as specific strength, heat transfer coefficient and corrosion resistance, in addition to typical steel materials, reinforcements made of aluminium and titanium alloys were also analysed. Numerical calculations were performed with the ADINA System, which is based on the finite element method (FEM). The process of heat exchange between the interior with the constant temperature of 20 °C and the external environment with the temperature of −20 °C was simulated. Temperature distribution in the wall as well as the course of the 0° isotherm and the possibility of condensation in the wall were analysed. Moreover, corrosion and the economic aspects connected with the application of metal profiles used as reinforcements were taken into consideration. The numerical model for the sill beam without reinforcement was verified in experiments.