Metal buildings study: performance of materials and field validation

A 5000 square-foot metal building located at Brookhaven National Laboratory has been monitored over a winter season. Energy flows through wall sections were monitored using portable calorimeters. Air infiltration was measured using perfluorocarbon tracers, and the associated heat losses were calculated. Slab losses were assessed through a comparison of measured temperature gradients with results obtained through the use of heat-flow meters. The effect of thermal bridges and compressed insulation in locations where support beams are joined to the exterior skin was found to increase heat losses significantly. A retrofit strategy including spray insulation of beams is projected to save 30% on heating energy.