NEW APPROACH ON RETROFITTING EXISTING SINGLE PANE TO DOUBLE

PANE ACRYLIC VS. POLYCARBONATE

ALIF BIN MUSA

Malaysian Institute of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering Technology

Universiti Kuala Lumpur

SEPTEMBER 2015

NEW APPROACH ON RETROFITTING EXISTING SINGLE PANE TO

DOUBLE PANE ACRYLIC VS. POLYCARBONATE

ALIF BIN MUSA

55201112126

A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the

requirements for the award of the degree of
Bachelor of Chemical Engineering
Technology (Hons.) in Process

Malaysian Institute of Chemical & Bioengineering Technology

Universiti Kuala Lumpur

SEPTEMBER 2015

DECLARATION

I declare that this report is my original work and all references have been
cited adequately as required by the University.

Date: 13/01/2016
(Hardcover submission date)

Signature....
Full Name: ALIF BIN MUSA
ID Number 55201212034

ii

APPROVAL PAGE

We have supervised and examined this report and verify that it meets the program and
Universitys requirements for the Bachelor of Chemical Engineering Technology
(Hons.) in Process.

Date: 13/01/2016
(Hardcover submission date)

Signature..
Supervisor: Mr Mohd Edyazuan Bin Azni
Official Stamp:

iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I wish to express my sincere appreciation to my main thesis supervisor, Mr.

Mohd Edyazuan bin Azni for encouragement, guidance, and critics. I am also very
thankful to UniKL MICET technician for their guidance, advices and motivation. Without
their continued support and interest, this thesis would not have been the same as
presented here.

My project colleague Hazree Izuan Bin Mohd Noor and Nurul Nadia Izwani Binti
Reepei should also be recognised for their great assistance at various occasions. My
sincere appreciation also extends to the UniKL MICET management for efficiency this
final year project.

iv

CONTENTS

DECLARATION

ii

APPROVAL PAGE

iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

iv

LIST OF TABLES

vii

LIST OF FIGURES

viii

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION

13

1.1 Introduction

13

1.2 Problem Statement

15

1.3 Objectives

16

CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW

17

2.1 Introduction

17

2.2 Types of Window Glazing

18

2.1.1: Acrylic

18

2.1.2: Polycarbonate

19

2.2 Concepts of Heat Transfer

19

2.2.1 Reflectance

19

2.2.2 Solar Reflectance Index (SRI)

20

2.2.3 Emissivity

20

2.2.4 Transmittance

20

2.2.5 Absorptions

20

2.2.6: U-value

21

2.2.7: Heat gain

22

CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY

27

3.1 Introduction

27

3.2 Window Tint Films

29

3.3 Magnetic Tape Strips

29
v

3.4 Onset hobo data logger

CHAPTER 4 RESULT AND DISCUSSION

30

34

4.1 Discussion

34

4.2 Graph of Single Glazed Window without Air-Conditioning (Acrylic vs. Pc)

34

4.3 Graph of single glazed window with air-conditioning (Acrylic vs. Pc)

36

4.4 Graph of 3 mm Doubles Glazed (30mm gap) without Air-Conditioning

(Polycarbonate)

37

4.5 Graph of 3 mm double glazing window (30 mm air gap) with

air-conditioning

39

4.6 Graph of 3 mm double glazing (20 mm gap) without air-conditioning

40

4.7 Graph of 3 mm double glazed window (20 mm air gap) with

air-conditioning

42

4.8 Graph of 5mm Acrylic Double Glazing Window (30 mm air gap) with
air-conditioning

43

4.9 Graph of 6 mm acrylic double glazing window (30 mm air gap) with airconditioning

45

4.10 Graph of 5 mm acrylic double glazing window tinted (30 mm air gap)
with air-conditioning

46

4.11 Table of energy consumption

47

4.11 Estimated electricity consumption

49

CHAPTER 5 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

51

5.1 Conclusion

51

5.2: Recommendations

51

REFERENCES

52

APPENDICES

54

a)

Case Study 1

55

b)

Case Study 2

56

c)

Case Study 3

57

vi

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE NO.

TITLE

PAGE

2.1

Common Windows Specifications (BRE, 1993)

24

2.2

Glazing Windows Material (Rubin, 1982)

25

2.3

Types of Window Glazing (Rubin, 1982)

25

4.1

Energy Meter Data for Single and Double Glazing

47

4.2

Energy Meter Data for Single and Double Glazing Tinted

48

4.3

Energy Meter Data for Double Glazing and Double Glazing

4.4

Tinted

48

Comparison Annual Energy Saving

50

vii

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE NO.

TITLE

PAGE

2.1

Center of Glass U-Factor vs. Air Gap Width (ASHRAE, 2009)

23

2.2

Typical Double-Glazing Unit (Garvin and Wilson, 1998)

24

2.3

Comparison of Glazing Type at Different Places

26

2.4

Solar Light Interacting with Glazing

26

3.1

Cabin A for Arcrylic and Cabin B for Polycarbonate

28

3.2

Morning and Afternoon Sunshine of The Cabin.

28

3.3

Morning and Afternoon Sunshine of The Cabin.

29

3.4

Magnetic Tape.

30

3.5

Onset Hobo Data Logger

30

3.6

Power Meter

31

3.7

Single Layer Window Pane

31

3.8

Double Layer Window Pane

32

4.1

Temperature with Average Time per day (Pc vs. Acrylic)

without AC

4.2

Heat Loss and Average Time per day (Pc vs. Acrylic)
without AC

4.3

34

35

Temperature with Average Time per day (Pc vs. Acrylic)

with AC

36

4.4

Heat loss and average time per day (Pc vs. Acrylic) with AC

36

4.5

Temperature and Average time per day (PC) 30 mm gap

without AC

4.6

Heat Loss and Average Time per day (PC) 30 mm gap

without AC

4.7

39

Heat Loss and Average time per day (pc vs. acrylic no bold)
30 mm gap with AC

4.9

38

Temperature and Average time per day (pc vs. acrylic)

30 mm gap with AC

4.8

37

39

Temperature and Average Time per day (PC) 20 mm

without AC

40
viii

4.10

Heat Loss and Average time per day (PC) 20 mm without AC

4.11

Temperature and average time per day (pc vs. acrylic)

41

20 mm with AC

42

4.12

Heat loss and time per hour (pc vs. acrylic) 20 mm with AC

42

4.13

Temperature and Average time per day (acrylic) 30 mm

with AC

43

4.14

Heat Loss and time per hour (acrylic) 30 mm gap with AC

44

4.15

Temperature and Average time per day (acrylic) 30 mm

with AC

45

4.16

Heat loss and time per hour (acrylic) 30 mm gap with AC

45

4.17

Temperature and average time per day (acrylic) 30 mm

with AC

4.18

Heat loss and time per hour (acrylic tinted) 30 mm gap

with AC

4.19

49

Energy Consumption of Single Glaze Compare to

Tinted Double Glaze in a Week.

4.21

47

Energy Consumption of Single Glaze Compare to

Double Glaze (without tinted) in a Week.

4.20

46

49

Energy Consumption of Single Glaze Compare to

Tinted Double Glaze

50

ix

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

Percentage

Area, m2

Ar

Argon

Celsius

dB

Decibels

DGW

Double-glazed Window

Emissivity

HP

Horse Power

IGU

Insulated Glazing Unit

Kr

Krypton

MS

Malaysian Standard

PC

Polycarbonate

PVC

Polyvinyl-chloride

Qloss

Heat Loss, Watt

Resistance, m2.K/W

RM

Ringgit Malaysia

SGW

Single-glazed Window

SLM

Sound Level Meter

Temperature

Thermal Transmittance, W/m2.K

UV

Ultraviolet

ABSTRACT

Due to increased energy efficiency, dual pane windows can save homeowners
anywhere between 20 to 30 percent a year on energy costs. Nevertheless, before
making the decision to retrofitted dual pane windows, it is essential to analyse and
determine what other costs will ensue. The aim of Green Building design worldwide
include Malaysia are to get lower energy consumption. Tinted double glazing is one of
strategies to achieve low energy consumption by controlling the heat from solar when
penetrate the window. In addition to the installation and trimming expenses, siding and
exterior faces may also need to be replaced. To prevent drafts from entering inside the
house, caulk around the interior and exteriors of the pane. In order to retain natural
warmth and sunlight in the home, apply coatings to the pane. This will decrease any
harmful impacts of sunlight while absorbing useful heat and lighting in the home. When
windows are installed incorrectly, the space in-between dual panes can become cloudy
due to an increase in condensation. Nevertheless, there are many benefits of retrofitted
dual pane windows for a home. Aside from an increase in energy efficiency and adding
to a houses exterior appearance, dual panes are much easier to retrofitted than single
panes.

xi

ABSTRAK

Disebabkan oleh peningkatan kecekapan tenaga, dwi tingkap panel boleh

menjimatkan pemilik rumah di mana-mana antara 20 hingga 30 peratus setahun ke
atas kos tenaga. Walau bagaimanapun, sebelum membuat keputusan untuk
memasang dwi panel tingkap, ia adalah penting untuk menganalisis dan menentukan
apa kos lain yang akan berlaku. Tujuan reka bentuk Bangunan Hijau di seluruh dunia
termasuk Malaysia untuk mendapatkan penggunaan tenaga yang lebih rendah. Tinted
dwi kaca merupakan salah satu strategi untuk mencapai penggunaan tenaga yang
rendah dengan mengawal haba dari solar apabila menembusi tingkap. Selain
pemasangan dan pengurangan perbelanjaan, tepi dan muka luaran juga mungkin
perlu diganti. Untuk mengelakkan haba daripada memasuki dalam rumah, menutupi
ruang sekitar kawasan dalam dan luar anak tetingkap. Dalam usaha untuk
mengekalkan kehangatan semulajadi dan cahaya matahari di rumah, memasang
lapisan gelap (tinted) untuk anak tetingkap. Ini akan mengurangkan sebarang kesan
berbahaya cahaya matahari manakala menyerap haba yang berguna dan lampu di
dalam rumah. Apabila tingkap dipasang dengan tidak betul, ruang di antara dwi anak
tetingkap

boleh

menjadi

kekuningan

disebabkan

oleh

peningkatan

dalam

pemeluwapan. Walau bagaimanapun, terdapat banyak manfaat dipasang tingkap

panel dwi untuk rumah. Selain daripada peningkatan dalam kecekapan tenaga dan
menambah kepada penampilan luaran rumah itu, anak tetingkap dua adalah lebih
mudah untuk dipasang daripada anak tetingkap tunggal.

xii

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

Windows might not show it, but they have become advanced piece of buildings
envelope equipment. Low-end windows still use single-pane glass but provide little
insulation. According to Smith, N et al.,(2012), double-pane windows will greatly
improve thermal insulation in retrofitting existing window. However, double-pane
window is a general term that hides the complex difficulty of the offering. Single-pane
windows are made with a single layer of glass. They come in all of the same styles and
materials that double-pane windows do, but they are not as efficient at keeping out
noise or seasonal temperatures. Their initial cost is less, which makes them a good
choice for those who need to stay within a strict budget, but over time
(Doityourself, 2015).

Single-pane glass treatments have no insulation. When using only one pane of
glass, outside temperatures and noise will affect the inside of home more easily. If live
in a quiet neighbourhood and seasonal temperatures remain mild and the same
throughout the year, single-pane windows might be enough. Double-pane windows
come with two panes of glass. These panes are separated from each other by a
spaced filled with air. That air traps creates heat in between the two windows and forms
a thermal insulator that blocks the heat and cold from affecting your home. That results
in lower energy costs and less noise, which can be an important consideration if you
live on a busy street.

13

The retrofitting existing window to double pane do at first cost more than singlepane windows do, since they use double the materials. In fact, with double-pane
windows will not have to use air conditioner as often and heater can be set at a lower
temperature because the air inside the home will be more consistent (Smith et al.,
2012). According to Branz (2002), secondary glazing increases the thermal
performance of a window by creating a still gap between the secondary glazing and
the existing window frame. This still air gap provides most of the window's thermal
resistance.

According to Lloyd B & Callau M. (2006) stated that secondary glazing can
save energy and reduce electrical consumption. Moreover, the thermal resistance
increases with the addition of secondary glazing but depends on the material, type and
the air tightness of the existing frame as well as the type of secondary glazing used.

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic that is mouldable, durable and, lightweight,

flame resistant and shatterproof. One of its best properties is high-impact resistance,
which can be more than 200 times greater than tempered glass. Polycarbonate for
building applications is weather resistant and UV protected, making them an efficient
solution for non-residential buildings: they could be used as fenestration systems,
continuous windows, shed, roofs, walls, and finally indoor partitions. Polycarbonate
sheets can be as clear as glass, translucent, or completely opaque, depending on the
specific use. The panels can be flat or corrugated, rigid or flexible, thick or thin
(Moretti et al., 2014).

A cost effective strategy to reduce energy usage is by improving the

performance of building envelopes. Heat gain through the building envelop is
responsible for 30-40% of energy use in a commercial building. Retrofitting is usually
performed

without

much

disturbance

to

people

working

in

the

building

(Chirarattananon and Taweekun, 2003).

14

1.2 Problem Statement

There are numerous options to choose from when looking to replace windows,
including single hung versus double hung, or wood. The major difference between
single-pane and double-pane windows involves their structure. Single-pane windows
only contain one layer of glass. On the other hand, double-pane windows are made up
of two layers of glass, along with a space in between that is filled with a type of gas.
When it comes to associated costs, single-pane windows are the most affordable type.
Double-pane windows will require homeowners to spend more up front. Nevertheless,
consumer may be able to save more money in the long run by deciding to install
double-pane windows.

A major disadvantage of selecting single-pane windows for a home is the fact

that they transmit noise easily. Therefore, outside sounds are more amplified and
noticeable from inside the home. Because the two layers in double-pane windows are
separated by a layer of air, the windows are more likely to resist transmissions from
external noises. In terms of heating and cooling, single-pane windows are at a
disadvantage once again. These types of windows transmit heat and cold coming from
outside much more readily.

As a result, homeowners end up paying more for heating and cooling bills. Due
to the layer of air in-between the dual layers of glass in double-pane windows, a
thermal barrier is created. This prevents outside weather from impacting a homes
interior. Whether homeowners decide to install single or double pane windows, both
types come in different forms. Buyers can choose from horizontal, single and double
hung, or shuttered. Both forms are also available in either vinyl or aluminium.

Many newer homes contain insulated, coated dual panes. Single panes have
proven to be much less efficient. Choosing the right windows can also improve its outer
appeal and appearance. In addition to an improved appearance, dual panes
incorporate modern technology in their design.

15

Many newer dual panes are energy efficient because they are coated with Low
E, a material that reflects hot, harmful sun rays away from the home. Although the
damaging heat is moved away, this technology allows the beneficial warmth from the
rays to remain indoors. To increase the reduction of heat transfer, homeowners can
choose darker tints for the windows.

Several dual panes are energy efficient due to their vinyl structure. Older
windows incorporate aluminium and wood in their designs, allowing for less heat to
diffuse than with dual panes.

1.3 Objectives

The objectives of this study are mention in the list below:

1.

To measures temperatures (indoor environment) of an office with single and

double pane windows.

2.

To calculate the heat transfer over single glass glazing and double glazing
windows.

3.

To investigate effect of tinted film on double glazing window of an office

temperature.

4.

To measure the air conditioner electric consumption of single and double

glazing.

16

CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

Acrylic and polycarbonate are plastics that each have their own characteristics
and specific uses based on those characteristics (Newman and Leah, 2015). Energy
efficiency is a major concern and an essential component of green building. It has even
become a major factor in its success. A green building must always be fitted with
solutions that offer enhanced electrical energy management, reduce consumption and
contribute to supplying quality energy. This efficiency can be materialised in a home
through the use of occupancy detectors and full home automation systems.

All these solutions help to manage and programme lighting, heating and other
uses to optimise their use at a lower cost. In commercial buildings, solutions are
multiplied to reduce energy use and contribute to reducing greenhouse gases, both in
lighting management, office equipment management, security lighting, infrastructure
measurement and surveillance. In such buildings, capacitor banks increase the
efficiency of the installation and network analysers make it possible to measure the
consumption and quality of the energy.

Power meter was used to measure the electrical consumptions per hour. We
can calculate the uses of electricity based on the rate TNB. Based on the latest
electricity rate, now the rate is around 0.218sen per kW/hr. Moreover, power meter
also can calculate electricity uses based on single, double glazing glass and tinted
double glazing windows.

17

The principle of sound insulation is the mass law, which sees an increase in
sound insulation by 4 dB with every doubling of a glass thickness (Johnson, 1991).
Researches aims to improve thermal characteristics of double glazed windows to
reduce the overall heat loss from buildings. This results in lower energy consumption,
carbon dioxide emissions and greenhouse effect (Muneer and Han, 1995).

2.2 Types of Window Glazing

2.1.1: Acrylic

Acrylic is much less expensive, and stands up better to heat and exposure to
weather and sunlight than polycarbonate. In the plastics industry most acrylics are
polymers of methyl methacrylate (PMMA). Acrylics may be in the form of molding
powders or casting syrups, and are noted for their exceptional clarity and optical
properties.

Acrylics are widely used in lighting fixtures because they are slow-burning or
even self-extinguishing, and they do not produce harmful smoke or gases in the
presence of flame. The most important properties for acrylic (PMMA) are its optical
clarity, low UV sensitivity, and overall weather resistance. Acrylic is often used as a
glass substitute (Plastics.ulprospector.com,2015).

Acrylic acid was first prepared in 1843. Methacrylic acid, which is a derivative
of acrylic acid, was formulated in 1865. When methacrylic acid is reacted with methyl
alcohol, it results in an ester known as methyl methacrylate. The polymerization
process to turn methyl methacrylate into polymethyl methacrylate was discovered by
the German chemists Fittig and Paul in 1877, but it wasn't until 1936 that the process
was used to produce sheets of acrylic safety glass commercially. During World War II,
acrylic glass was used for periscope ports on submarines and for windshields,
canopies, and gun turrets on airplanes (Plastics.ulprospector.com, 2015).

18

2.1.2: Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is much more impact resistance and nearly impossible to

shatter. It is bulletproof when used in thick enough layers (Plastics.ulprospector.com,
2015) this material is formed by a condensation polymerization resulting in a carbon
that is bonded to three oxygens. The most common system for this polymerization is
formed by a reaction of Bisphenol A and Phosgene.

Applications of polycarbonate are almost always those which take advantage

of its uniquely high impact strength and its exceptional clarity. These unique properties
have resulted in applications such as bulletproof windows, break resistant lenses,
compact discs, etc. More recently however, additional interest has resulted because
of the low flammability of polycarbonate (Plastics.ulprospector.com, 2015).

Polycarbonates (PC) were first prepared by

Alfred Einhorn in 1898 and

extensively researched until 1930 where they were discarded. Research was then
started in the mid 1950s by General Electric and in 1958 the Polycarbonate popularity
expanded to a global community. After 1970, the brownish original polycarbonate tint
was improved to glass-clear. Today, approximately 75% of the Polycarbonate market
is

held

by

SABIC

Innovative

Plastics

and

Bayer

Material

Science

(Plastics.ulprospector.com,2015).

2.2 Concepts of Heat Transfer

2.2.1 Reflectance

Reflectance occurs when the surface of a material reflects an incident beam of

light. Reflectance expresses the fraction of incident radiation reflected by the glass.
Solar reflectance is a measure to reflect sunlight (including the visible, infrared and
ultraviolet wavelengths) on a scale of 0 to 1. Solar reflectance is also called "albedo".
An albedo value of 0.0 indicates that the surface absorbs all solar radiation, and a 1.0
albedo value represents total reflectivity.

19

2.2.2 Solar Reflectance Index (SRI)

Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) is a value that incorporates both solar

reflectance and emission in a single value to represent a materials temperature in the
sun. SRI quantifies how hot a surface would get relative to standard black and standard
white surfaces. It is calculated using equations based on previously measured values
of solar reflectance and emission. It is expressed as a fraction (0.0 to 1.0) or
percentage (0% to 100%).

2.2.3 Emissivity

Emissivity is the ability of a surface to absorb or emit electromagnetic

radiation. Glass naturally has a high emissivity. However when a low emissivity
coating (Low-E glass) is applied, the glass surface does not absorb the radiant
energy but reflects it back into the atmosphere.

2.2.4 Transmittance

Transmittance is the fraction of radiation directly transmitted through the glass.

It is the section of light remaining after reflection and absorption. Transmitted light can
be modified by diffusion, refraction and coloring. Transmittance is the fraction of radiant
energy that having entered a layer of absorbing material, reaches its furthest boundary.
For example, when sunlight hits a glass surface, some amount of light is absorbed by
the glass, some is reflected back into the atmosphere, and some is transmitted to other
surrounding objects or the ground below.

2.2.5 Absorptions

Absorption express the fraction of incident radiation absorbed. All the absorbed
heat produces heat. Heat flows from higher to lower temperatures. Heat produced by
absorption raises the temperature of the material beneath the surface, which is either
conducted into the material or dissipated from the surface to the surroundings by reradiating, conduction and convection.

20

Hassan and Al-Ashwal (2015) has conducted a study on investigation of the

energy performance of selected high-rise apartments in Kuala Lumpur using Energy
Plus software. This is done by examining possible energy savings by thermal
insulation and glazing types.

It is found that the model of double-glazed clear glass with 12mm air gap (612-6) gives a U-value of 2.74 W/m 2.K, and the model of double-glazed clear glass
(low-e) with 12 mm air gap (low-e 6-12-6) gives a U-value of 1.78 W/m 2.K. This is
compared to single glazed window off 6mm with the U-value of 6.4 W/m 2.K. The
replacement of single glass with double glazed (low-e) would result in annual energy
savings up to 19% (Nurul Nadia Izwani, 2015).

Aydin O. (2000) has studied numerical analysis on heat transfer through a

double glazing window by a finite technique, to determine the thermally optimum airlayer thickness between two panes in different climates in Turkey. Optimisation of air
gap considerably reduces the energy losses through windows.

Parameters that influence optimum value of four cities were considered;

Antalya, Trabzon, Ankara and Kars, which have average temperatures of 19C, 25C,
34C and 49C respectively. Indoor and outdoor temperatures, weather conditions and
climate influence the readings. Based on simulation results, the ranges of optimum air
gap thicknesses are 18-21 mm (Antalya), 15-18 mm (Trabzon and Ankara), and 12-15
mm (Kars). Considering the Malaysian climate, we should find the ranges are from 1518 mm wide, with respect to results taken from Trabzon city which has average
temperature of 25 C.

2.2.6: U-value

The U-value, is the overall heat transfer coefficient that describes how well a
building element conducts heat or the rate of transfer of heat (in watts) through one
square meter of a structure divided by the difference in temperature across the
2
structure. U is the inverse of R with SI units of W/ (m K) and US units of BTU/(h F
2
ft );

21

(2.1)
where, k is the material's thermal conductivity and L is its thickness.

For six different window types, the study compiles the U-value (the energy lost
per unit area of glass) and embodied energy; the results are displayed in table below.

Heat gain is heat within the space of cabin office as result by direct solar
radiation and heat radiated by other equipment such as lamp. In this study only focus
on conductive

2.2.7: Heat gain

Heat gain by solar through single glazing window and double glazing window
with condition of air conditioner open from 8.00AM to 5.00PM weekday. The time
open is office hour for most of the Malaysian people. These are the following equation
to be used for predicted the heat gain:
Qloss = AiUwi (in ch)

(2.2)

Where Qgain is heat gain (Watts), U value is coefficient of heat transfer [W/m 2K],
A is the total area of the window [m 2] and T is the difference between average ambient
temperature outside and inside.

Rubin (1982) suggests that window designs are becoming more complex in
response to the need of energy conservation. Several factors are put in interest, most
importantly the conduction in solid layers, solar optical properties and thermal
radiation.

Air is a good insulator, as multiple-glazed windows have dead air spaces

between the panes. Single glazing has a U-value of about 6 Wm-2K-1, which has fewer
conductances of glass sheets or thin plastic materials (Table 2.1). Rubin has chosen
the typical thickness of the glazing materials, with our concern to polycarbonate, valued
at 6mm.
22

Fig. 2.1 Center of Glass U-Factor vs. Air Gap Width (ASHRAE, 2009)

Arasteh D. et al. (1986) has detailed thermal performance data on conventional

and insulating glazing systems. They have discussed the effects of outdoor
temperature, wind speed, insulation, surface emittance, and gap width on the thermal
performance, and some data has been incorporated to ASHRAE handbook 1985.
Alteration of convective heat transfer by the influence of temperature difference
changing between pane and surface surrounding air layer.

Addition of more glazing layers will reduce U-value as the temperature

difference between the layers and surrounding air is smaller. Heat transfer through air
gaps are by means of conduction, and it is noted that thermal conductivity is a quarter
than that of glass. Their model theory concludes that air gaps should not be increased
beyond 19.05 mm (3/4 inches), because increasing air gaps does not always lower,
but may even increase the gap heat transfer coefficient as shown in Figure 2.2 below.
Tadeu and Mateus (2001) have outlined an experimental result on sound transmission
through single, double and triple glazing. Variables considered are the number and
thickness of panels, air gap width and type of frames. They have proved that double
glazing exhibits better insulation than single glazing when air gaps are close to or
greater than 50mm thick, or id the air gaps are very small. Triple glazing also offers no
significant improvements in insulation when given a total air gap width as the same
width as a particular double glazed air gap when tested. They have proposed that
separate panels must use separate frames in order to seal tight the air gaps and thus
result in improves insulation.

23

Fig. 2.2 Typical Double-Glazing Unit (Garvin and Wilson, 1998)

2.3: Properties of Materials Specification

Table 2.1 Common Windows Specifications (BRE, 1993)

24

Table 2.2 Glazing Windows Material (Rubin, 1982)

Glazing Material

Thermal

Typical

Thermal

conductivity

Thickness

Conductance

W/m.K

W/m2.K

Glass

0.9

0.003

300

Polyester film

0.14

0.0001

1400

Acrylic or

0.190

0.006

30

Polycarbonate
Sheet

Table 2.3 Types of Window Glazing (Rubin, 1982)

Type of Window Glazing

DGW

SGW

Layers

Resistance (m2.k/W)

Air gap (mm)

(3 - 20Air)

(3 - 30Air)

Ref

External Surface

0.04

0.04

0.04

(BCA, 2006)

PC Sheet

0.014

0.014

(Rubin, 1982)

Air gap

0.8

1.2

(Ukrainczyk.N and

References

Matusinovoc

T.,

2010)
Glass window pane

0.003

0.003

0.003

(Mcmullan, 2007)

Internal Surface

0.12

0.12

0.12

(BCA, 2006)

Total Resistance

0.977

1.377

0.163

1.02

0.73

6.13

U-value (W/m .K)

25

Fig. 2.3 Comparison of Glazing Type at Different Places

Fig. 2.4 Solar Light Interacting with Glazing

26

CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

The objective of this study was to find the temperature and electrical
consumption in cabin. There are 2 types of window pane that will be use to investigate
which is single layer window pane and double layer window pane. The material that
use in window pane are arcylic and polycabonate. Magnetic tape was used to prevent
from air enter at the window while install the Arcylic and polycarbonate. Power meter
used to measured electric consumption as figure 3.1 belows. The cabin or test lab is
designed to resemble the actual office room condition alike. It is oriented the windows
to East. The test lab is custom made of plywood wall, floor and ceiling with a zinc roof.
Other than that, it is built with a standard glass window with a wooden frame and an
(size) awning that is hanging above the outside window. The test lab is consists of two
cubical rooms which a research on acrylic and polycarbonate sheets were done
separately. The area of the whole test lab is 19.37 m 2 and 57.13 m 3 in volume while
the area for each cubical rooms are 8.44 m 2 and 19.66 m 3 in volume. Each cubical
room consists of a standard glass window of 1.5m x 0.9 m and the window is hanging
0.08 m above the floor and a door of 1.71m 2 in area. Furthermore, the test lab is built
0.02 m above the ground. Each test lab consist of Daikin 1 HP powered air
conditioners.

27

Fig. 3.1 Cabin A for Arcrylic and Cabin B for Polycarbonate

Sun orientation of the cabin is illustrated and as shown below. Sunshine is

facing the window in the morning and facing the door at the back in the afternoon.

Fig. 3.2 Morning and Afternoon Sunshine of The Cabin.

28

3.2 Window Tint Films

Window films usually used for our home, auto or business, reduce glare and
the sun's fading rays Safety Window Film, which acts like a steel curtain to hold
shattered glass in place, as well as filtering UV rays. Solar Control Window Films
provide privacy and energy savings while blocking damaging UV rays in your home or
office. In this thesis research, a window tint film with 80% of the suns heat reflects
(SHGC 0.2) and allows 20% visible light transmission (VLT 0.2) in 3x5size was used.
It is the highest performing film with the greatest daytime privacy.

3.3 Magnetic Tape Strips

Fig. 3.3 Morning and Afternoon Sunshine of The Cabin.

3M Flexible Magnet Tape is built with a strong yet unbelievably flexible

polymer composite. 3M magnet tape holds fast around sharp curves, twists, and
irregular surfaces without popping off. Backed by a strong acrylic adhesive, the
tape will attach nearly any material to a metal surface. Additionally, the tapes ability
to conform to odd surfaces expands its range of applications far beyond those
associated with traditional stiff magnetic strip. Holding strength up to 29 kg.

29

Fig. 3.4 Magnetic Tape.

3.4 Onset hobo data logger

The HOBO 4-Channel Thermocouple data logger records temperature in

indoor environments using up to four J, K, T, E, R, S, B, or N type thermocouple
sensors (see Figure 3.5). In this study we used type J. The logger also has an internal
10K thermistor for cold-junction compensation of the thermocouple output. The four
thermocouple channels have a 20-bit resolution while the internal 10K thermistor has
a 12-bit resolution. Using HOBOware, you can easily configure the logger alarm to
trip for specific high or low temperatures. Or, you can set up burst logging in which the
logger records data at a different interval during certain conditions. The logger can also
calculate minimum, maximum, average, and standard deviation statistics. This easyto-use data logger has a built-in LCD screen to monitor temperature, logging status,
battery use, and memory consumption in between readouts. An optional protective
case (CASE-4X-2) is also available for this logger.

Fig. 3.5 Onset Hobo Data Logger

30

Fig. 3.6 Power Meter

1) Single layer window pane

Fig. 3.7 Single Layer Window Pane

31

Part

Description

Pt1

Inside ambient temperature

Pt2

Inside polycarbonate surface temperature

Pt3

Outside polycarbonate surface temperature

Pt4

Outside ambient temperature

1.1 Attach temperature sensor to existing single layer window (hobo logger +
temperature sensor)

1.2 Attach temperature sensor (4point/room)

2)

2 weeks (without aircond)

2 weeks (with aircond)

Double layer window pane

Fig. 3.8 Double Layer Window Pane

32

Part

Description

Pt1

Inside ambient temperature

Pt2

Inside polycarbonate surface temperature

Pt3

Outside polycarbonate surface temperature

Pt4

middle ambient temperature

Pt5

Inside polycarbonate surface temperature

Pt6

Outside polycarbonate surface temperature

Pt7

Outside ambient temperature

2.1 Attach second layer of window pane

Room 1 (polycarbonate clear sheet)

Room 2 (acrilic clear pane)

2.2 Attach temperature sensor (7 point/room)

2 weeks without (air conditioner)

2 weeks with (air conditioner)

3) Analyze data
4) Modelling using window 6.0 software to verify the data.

-Take electricity consumption during all measurement

Repeat the procedure with tinted glazing windows.

33

CHAPTER 4

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Discussion
This research was conducted simultaneously on the same day and time.
Condition with air-conditioning has been set temperature 26.00Celsius.

4.2 Graph of Single Glazed Window without Air-Conditioning (Acrylic vs. Pc)

Graph temperature (0C) vs. Average Time per Day

(hourl)

pc:
temp.ambien
t outside

40

Temperature (0)

35
30

pc:
temp.ambien
t inside

25
20

acrylic: temp.
ambient
outside

15
10
5
0
8:00
AM

9:00
AM

10:00
AM

11:00
AM

12:00
AM

1:00
PM

2:00
PM

3:00
PM

4:00
PM

5:00
PM

acrylic:
temp.ambien
t inside

Average Time per Day

Fig. 4.1 Temperature with Average Time per day (Pc vs. Acrylic) without AC

34

Qloss (Watt)

Graph Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day

(Hour)
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0

pc
acrylic

Average Time per Day (Hour)

Fig. 4.2 Heat Loss and Average Time per day (Pc vs. Acrylic) without AC

The baseline values (Fig. 4.1) serve as a basis for comparison to model
variations that are developed subsequently. The graph is calculated from a 5 day
average on working hours of 8am to 5pm with a recess gap between 1 pm to 2pm
without using air-conditioning. Experiment is done on the year 2014, on the September
of 11th to the 17th. Average temperature exterior and indoors is calculated for each
hour. Two pairs of sheets glazing temperature outside has a minimum temperature of
26.0Celsius at 8 am. The maximum temperature outside of the polycarbonate is
30.0Celsius at 12 am, while for acrylic is 30.0Celsius at 12 am. The maximum
temperature inside of the polycarbonate is 35.0Celsius at 3 pm, while for acrylic is
30.0.Celsius at 3pm. And minimum temperature inside for polycarbonate is
26.0Celsius at 8am, while for acrylic is 26.0Celsius at 8am. Heat loss averages is
seen in Figure 4.2, where maximum heat loss for polycarbonate is (59.73 Watt) at 3pm4pm, while for acrylic heat loss is (58.43 Watt) at 8-9 am. The minimum heat loss for
polycarbonate is (4.16 Watt) at 8-9am, while for acrylic is (4.16Watt) at 8-9am.

35

4.3 Graph of single glazed window with air-conditioning (Acrylic vs. Pc)

Graph temperature (0C) vs. Average Time per Day

(hourl)

pc:
temp.ambi
ent outside

40

Temperature (0)

35
pc:
temp.ambi
ent inside

30
25
20

acrylic:
temp.
ambient
outside

15
10
5
0
8:00
AM

9:00
AM

10:00 11:00 12:00

AM
AM
AM

1:00
PM

2:00
PM

3:00
PM

4:00
PM

5:00
PM

acrylic:
temp.ambi
ent inside

Average Time per Day

Fig. 4.3 Temperature with Average Time per day (Pc vs. Acrylic) with AC

GRAPH Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day

(Hour)
Qloss (Watt)

100
80
60
40
20

pc

acrylic

Average Time per Day (Hour)

Fig. 4.4 Heat loss and average time per day (Pc vs. Acrylic) with AC

36

The graph of single glazed with air-conditioning (Fig. 4.3) is done on the 6th 10th of
April 2015. Temperature values interchange as inside is considerably lower than
outside temperature. Average temperature exterior and indoors is calculated for each
hour. Two pairs of sheets glazing temperature outside has a minimum temperature of
26.0Celsius at 8 am and maximum temperature of 35.00Celsius at 3 pm. Heat loss
averages is seen in Fig. 4.4, where maximum is at 12-1 pm (90.942 Watt), and
minimum is at 8-9 am (41.87 Watt).

4.4 Graph of 3 mm Doubles Glazed (30mm gap) without Air-Conditioning

(Polycarbonate)

Temperature (C)

Graph Temperature (C) vs Average Time per Day (hour)

40.00
38.00
36.00
34.00
32.00
30.00
28.00
26.00
24.00
22.00
20.00
8:00
AM

9:00
AM

10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00

AM
AM
AM
PM
PM
PM
Average Time per Day (hour)

4:00
PM

5:00
PM

Temperature Ambient Inside Room, (C)

Temperature Ambient Outside Room, (C)

Fig. 4.5 Temperature and Average time per day (PC) 30 mm gap without AC

37

Graph Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day (Hour)

3.98

Qloss (Watt)

4.00
2.96

3.00
2.00

1.00

1.49

3.28

1.40
0.60

0.22

0.31

0.00

8:00 - 9:00 9:00 AM 10:00

AM

10:00 - 11:00 - 12:00 - 2:00 - 3:00 - 4:00 11:00

12:00 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM
AM
AM
Average Time per Day (Hour)

Qloss (Watt) DGW (3 - 30Air) without AC

Fig. 4.6 Heat Loss and Average Time per day (PC) 30 mm gap without AC

The graph of double glazing with 30mm gap without air-conditioning (Fig. 4.5)
is done on the 23th of March to 27th of April 2015. Temperature inside has minimum
of 26.51Celsius at 8 am and maximum of 38.11Celsius at 3 pm. Temperature outside
has minimum of 28.62Celsius at 8 am and maximum of 35.96Celsius at 12 pm. Heat
loss is maximum at 3-4 pm (3.98 Watt), and minimum is at 10-11 am (0.22 Watt). (Fig.
4.6).

38

4.5 Graph of 3 mm double glazing window (30 mm air gap) with air-conditioning

Temperature (0)

Graph Temperature (0) vs. Average Time per Day

(Hour)
40

pc: temp.ambient
outside

30
20

pc: temp.ambient inside

10
0

acrylic: temp.ambient
outside

Average Time per Day

acrylic: temp. ambient

inside

Fig. 4.7 Temperature and Average time per day (pc vs. acrylic) 30 mm gap with AC

GRAPH Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day

(Hour)
Qloss (Watt)

100
80
60
40
20

pc

acrylic

Average Time per Day (Hour)

Fig. 4.8 Heat Loss and Average time per day (pc vs. acrylic no bold) 30 mm gap with
AC
The graph of double glazed with air-conditioning (Fig. 4.7) is done on the 30th
of March to 3rd of April 2015. Average temperature exterior and indoors is calculated
for each hour. Two pairs of sheets glazing temperature outside has a minimum
temperature of 27.0Celsius at 8 am. The maximum temperature outside of the
polycarbonate is 34.0Celsius at 1 pm, while acrylic is 37.0Celsius at 1 pm. The
maximum temperature inside of the polycarbonate is 30.0Celsius at 10-11am, while
for acrylic is 26.0.Celsius at 10am-3pm.

39

And minimum temperature inside for polycarbonate is 26.0Celsius at 8am and

5pm, while for acrylic is 25.0Celsius at 9am and 4pm to 5pm. Heat loss averages is
seen in Fig. 4.8, where maximum heat loss for polycarbonate is (45.33 Watt) at 1pm2pm, while for acrylic heat loss is (82.33 Watt) at 8-9 am. The minimum heat loss for
polycarbonate is (4.16 Watt) at 8-9am, while for acrylic is (4.15Watt) 8-9am.

4.6 Graph of 3 mm double glazing (20 mm gap) without air-conditioning

Temperature (C)

Graph Temperature (C) vs Average Time per Day

(Hour)
42.00
40.00
38.00
36.00
34.00
32.00
30.00
28.00
26.00
24.00
22.00
20.00
8:00
AM

9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00

AM AM AM AM PM PM PM
Average Time per Day (Hour)
Temperature Ambient Inside Room, (C)

4:00
PM

5:00
PM

Temperature Ambient Outside Room, (C)

Fig. 4.9 Temperature and Average Time per day (PC) 20 mm without AC

40

Graph Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day (Hour)

Qloss (Watt)

10.00
8.00

8.70
7.35

8.29
5.53

6.00
4.00

2.29

1.55

2.00

1.34
0.13

0.00
8:00 9:00 AM

9:00 10:00
AM

10:00 - 11:00 - 12:00 - 2:00 3:00 4:00 11:00

12:00 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM
AM
AM
Average Time per Day (Hour)

Qgain (Watt) DGW (3-20Air) without AC

Fig. 4.10 Heat Loss and Average time per day (PC) 20 mm without AC

The graph of double glazing 20mm without air-conditioning (Fig. 4.9) is done
on the 20th 21st of April 2015. Temperature outside has minimum point of
27.17Celsius at 8 am and maximum point is at 41.36Celsius at 1 pm. Temperature
inside has minimum point of 23.54Celsius at 8 am and maximum point is
38.89Celsius at 12 pm. Maximum heat loss is at 9-10 am (8.70 Watt), and minimum
is at 2-3 pm (0.13 Watt). (Fig.4.10)

41

4.7 Graph of 3 mm double glazed window (20 mm air gap) with air-conditioning

Temperature (0)

Graph Temperature (0) vs. Average Time per Day

(Hour)
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0

pc: temp.ambient outside

pc: temp.ambient inside
acrylic: temp.ambient
outside
acrylic: temp. ambient
inside

Average Time per Day

Fig. 4.11 Temperature and average time per day (pc vs. acrylic) 20 mm with AC

Qloss (Watt)

GRAPH Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day

(Hour)
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0

pc
acrylic

Average Time per Day (Hour)

Fig. 4.12 Heat loss and time per hour (pc vs. acrylic) 20 mm with AC

The graph of double glazing 20 mm with air-conditioning (Fig. 4.11) is done on

14th 18th of April 2015. Average temperature exterior and indoors is calculated for
each hour. The maximum temperature outside of the polycarbonate is 30.0Celsius at
12 am 2pm 3pm, while for acrylic is 31.0Celsius at 12 am and for minimum
temperature polycarbonate is 26.0Celsius.

42

The maximum temperature inside of the polycarbonate is 24.0Celsius at 8 am

12 am 2 pm, while for acrylic is 25.0Celsius at 8am and 5pm. And minimum
temperature inside for polycarbonate is 21.0Celsius at 10am, while for acrylic is
23.0Celsius at 10am to 3 pm. Heat loss averages is seen in Fig. 4.12, where
maximum heat loss for polycarbonate is (66.61 Watt) at 3pm-4pm, while for acrylic
heat loss is (62.45 Watt) at 11-12 am. The minimum heat loss for polycarbonate is
(29.14 Watt) at 12-1pm, while for acrylic is (12.49 Watt) at 8-9am.

4.8 Graph of 5mm Acrylic Double Glazing Window (30 mm air gap) with airconditioning

Graph Temperature (0) vs. Average Time per Day (Hour)

40
35

Temperature (0)

30
acrylic:
temp.ambient
outside

25
20
15

acrylic:
temp.ambient
inside

10

5
0
8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00
AM AM AM AM AM PM PM PM PM PM
Average Time per Day

Fig. 4.13 Temperature and Average time per day (acrylic) 30 mm with AC

43

Qloss (Watt)

GRAPH Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day

(Hour)
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0

acrylic

Average Time per Day (Hour)

Fig. 4.14 Heat Loss and time per hour (acrylic) 30 mm gap with AC

Figure 4.13 show, the ambient temperature double glazing window 5mm
thickness with 30mm air gap. The ambient temperature outside show the uptrend result
at 8.00AM starting with 27C, peak at 12.00PM with 39C, downtrend until 5.00PM
with 31C. The ambient temperature inside is show the downtrend result starting at
8.00AM with 26C, from 9.00AM to 12.00AM the result is uptrend from 24C to 25C,
then downtrend until 1.00PM with 24C, uptrend to 25C at 2.00PM and continue
downtrend until 5.00PM with result 24C. The ambient temperature inside show the
downtrend result starting at 8.00AM with 23C, downtrend until 10.00AM with 23C,
and continue stable until 5.00PM with 24C. The minimum heat loss is (4.15 Watt) at
2-5pm,while maximum heat loss is (29.14 Watt) at 9-10am.

44

4.9 Graph of 6 mm acrylic double glazing window (30 mm air gap) with airconditioning

Graph Temperature (0) vs. Average Time per Day (Hour)

40
35

acrylic:
temp.ambient
outside

25
20
15

acrylic:
temp.ambient
inside

10
5
0

8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00
AM AM AM AM AM PM PM PM PM PM
Average Time per Day

Fig. 4.15 Temperature and Average time per day (acrylic) 30 mm with AC

GRAPH Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day

(Hour)
Qloss (Watt)

Temperature (0)

30

18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0

acrylic

Average Time per Day (Hour)

Fig. 4.16 Heat loss and time per hour (acrylic) 30 mm gap with AC

45

Figure 4.15 show the ambient temperature double glazing window 6mm
thickness with 30mm air gap. The ambient temperature outside show the uptrend result
at 8.00AM starting with 28C, peak at 10.00AM with 36C, downtrend until 5.00PM
with 29C. The ambient temperatures inside is show the downtrend result starting at
8.00AM with 26C, and continue downtrend until 5.00PM with result 22C. The
minimum heat loss is (4.16 Watt) at 8-9am and 4-5pm, while maximum heat loss is
(16.65 Watt) at 9-10am.

4.10 Graph of 5 mm acrylic double glazing window tinted (30 mm air gap) with
air-conditioning

Graph Temperature (0) vs. Average Time per Day (Hour)

40

35

Temperature (0)

30
acrylic:
temp.ambient
outside

25
20
15

acrylic:
temp.ambient
inside

10
5
0
8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00
AM AM AM AM AM PM PM PM PM PM
Average Time per Day

Fig. 4.17 Temperature and average time per day (acrylic) 30 mm with AC

46

Qloss (Watt)

14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0

GRAPH Qloss (Watt) vs Average Time per Day

(Hour)
acrylic
tinted

Average Time per Day (Hour)

Fig. 4.18 Heat loss and time per hour (acrylic tinted) 30 mm gap with AC
The graph of acrylic double glazing 30 mm gap with air-conditioning (Fig. 4.17).
Average temperature exterior and indoors is calculated for each hour. The maximum
temperature outside of the acrylic is 35.83Celsius at 11am, and for minimum
temperature is 26.44Celsius at 8am. The maximum temperature inside is
23.17Celsius at 9 am and minimum temperature inside is 21.46Celsius at 11am.
Heat loss averages is seen in Fig. 4.18, where maximum heat loss is (12.50 Watt) at
10-11am and the minimum heat loss is (0.25 Watt) at 1-2pm.

4.11 Table of energy consumption

Table 4.1 Energy Meter Data for Single and Double Glazing
Energy meter data for
Energy meter data for
No
Date
Single Glazing (kWh)
Double Glazing (kWh)
1
15/10/2015
6.78
6.65
2
16/10/2015
13.55
13.29
3
17/10/2015
20.34
19.97
4
18/10/2015
27.14
26.62
5
19/10/2015
33.90
33.29
6
20/10/2015
40.69
39.94
7
21/10/2015
47.47
46.60

47

Table 4.2 Energy Meter Data for Single and Double Glazing Tinted
Energy meter data for
Energy meter data for
No
Date
Single Glazing (kWh)
Double Glazing Tinted
(kWh)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

22/10/2015
23/10/2015
24/10/2015
25/10/2015
26/10/2015
27/10/2015
28/10/2015

6.54
13.11
19.67
26.22
32.76
39.33
47.35

6.75
13.53
20.29
27.05
33.81
40.59
45.88

Table 4.3 Energy Meter Data for Double Glazing and Double Glazing Tinted
No

Date

1
2
3
4
5
6
7

29/10/2015
30/10/2015
31/10/2015
1/11/2015
2/11/2015
3/11/2015
4/11/2015

Energy meter data for

Double Glazing (kWh)

Energy meter data for

Double Glazing Tinted
(kWh)

6.70
13.38
20.07
26.76
33.45
40.12
46.82

6.52
13.06
19.60
26.12
32.64
39.18
45.71

48

4.11 Estimated electricity consumption

Fig. 4.19 Energy Consumption of Single Glaze Compare to Double Glaze (without
tinted) in a Week.

Fig. 4.20 Energy Consumption of Single Glaze Compare to Tinted Double Glaze in
a Week.

49

Fig. 4.21 Energy Consumption of Single Glaze Compare to Tinted Double Glaze

Table 4.4 Comparison Annual Energy Saving

Saving in a week (kWh)

Annual saving (kWh)

Study Case 1

47.70 46.60 = 0.87

44.7

Study Case 2

47.35 45.88 = 1.47

75.6

Study Case 3

46.82 45.71 = 1.11

57.1

50

CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Conclusion

This thesis result shows that reduction of U-Value in glazing can be obtained
by installation of tinted double glazing. Secondary glazing can be used as functional
alternative by retrofitted the existing domestic single glazed window. Total energy
reduction can be referred by comparison between energy consumption of double
glaze tinted and single glaze without tinted. U-Value for polycarbonate is 0.726
W/m2K, while for acrylic is 0.725 W/m2K. Acrylic is a good for heat transmittance,
because its has lowest value of U-value. Payback period for initial installation
investment can be achieved within 7 to 14 years depends on tariff type of building by
installation of acrylic layer as second layer to the tinted glass.

Low energy building performance can be calculated and simulated to achieve

better condition of thermal comfort and to lower the consumption of electrical energy.
By installing the double glaze, tinted film, total U-value of glaze should reduce the
Energy used for cooling should be reduced. This thesis result hopefully can be a good
reference in building strategies via passive action to achieve low energy building
performance in Malaysia.

5.2: Recommendations

This study could also be used in big scale projects such as office buildings,
hotels, educational institutes, and also condominiums or apartments by improvising
the basic methodology, for instance, when installing insulated glazing units of large
panes we could widen the air gap between the two panes. Such simple innovations
will ensure us to achieve for a better and greener world tomorrow.
51

REFERENCES

BRANZ (2002) Bulletin 427: Improving Thermal Insulation, BRANZ Ltd. May 2002, p6

BRE (1993) Double Glazing for Heat and Sound Insulation, BRE Digest, Building
Research Establishment, 379, February 1993, p3

Doityourself.com, (2015). Single pane vs double pane windows, DoItYourself.com.

[online] Available at: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/single-pane-vs-doublepane-windows#b [accessed 2 Mar. 2015].

HubPages,. 'FAQ: What Are The Differences Between Single Pane And Double Pane
Glass Windows?'. N.p., 2015. [Access online Web. 2 Mar. 2015].

Lloyd B., Bishop T., Callau M. (2007) Retrofit Alternatives for State Houses in Cold
Regions of New Zealand, University of Otago, September 2007

Lloyd B., Callau M. (2006) Monitoring of Energy Efficiency Upgrades in State Houses
in southern New Zealand, University of Otago, p45

Nurul Nadia Izwani, (2015) Energy Efficient Building Through Cost Effective Window
Retrofitting, UniKL MICET, May 2015.

Newman, Leah. 'How To Identify Acrylic & Polycarbonate | Ehow'. eHow. N.p., 2015.
[Access online Web. 2 Mar. 2015].

Plastics.ulprospector.com,. 'Acrylic Plastic | UL Prospector'. N.p., 2015. [Access online

Web. 2 Mar. 2015].

Plastics.ulprospector.com,. 'Polycarbonate (PC) Plastic | UL Prospector'. N.p., 2015.

[Access online Web. 2 Mar. 2015].

Rubin, M. (1982). Calculating Heat Transfer through Windows. Energy Research. 6,

341-349. Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, University of California.

Smith, N., Isaacs, N., Burgess, J. and Cox-Smith, I. (2012). Thermal performance of
secondary glazing as a retrofit alternative for single-glazed windows. Energy
52

and buildings, 54, pp.47-51.

53

APPENDICES

1.0: Electrical domestic tariff

Appendix 1.1: Malaysia (TNB) Electrical Domestic Tariff.

Appendix 1.1.1: Malaysia (TNB) Electrical Commercial Tariff.

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Appendix 1.1.3: Table of -value

1.2: Estimated electricity consumption

a) Case Study 1
Single glaze without tinted compare to double glaze without tinted

Cost saving per year by tariff

Tariff A Residential

= 44.74 kWh x 0.218RM/kWh

= RM 9.75

Tariff B Commercial

= 44.74 kWh x 0.435RM/kWh

= RM 19.46

Tariff C1 Commercial

= 44.74 kWh x 0.365RM/kWh

= RM 13.56

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Payback Period for

Residential Tariff A = 230 RM / 9.75 RM/month = 23.6 years
Commercial Tariff B = 230 RM / 19.46 RM/month
= 11.8 years
Commercial Tariff C1 = 230 RM / 13.56 RM/month= 17
years

b) Case Study 2
Single glaze without tinted compare to double glaze with tinted

Cost saving per month by tariff

Tariff A Residential = 75.6 kWh x 0.218RM/kWh = RM 16.46
Tariff B Commercial = 75.6 kWh x 0.435RM/kWh = RM 32.89
Tariff C1 Commercial= 75.6 kWh x 0.365RM/kWh
= RM 22.91

Payback Period for

Residential Tariff A= 230 RM / 16.46 RM/month
= 14years
Commercial Tariff B = 230 RM / 32.89 RM/month
= 7 years
Commercial Tariff C1 = 230 RM / 22.91 RM/month
= 10years

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c) Case Study 3
Double glaze without tinted compare to double glaze with tinted

Cost saving per month by tariff

Tariff A Residential = 57.09 kWh x 0.218RM/kWh = RM 12.44
Tariff B Commercial = 57.09 kWh x 0.435RM/kWh = RM 24.83
Tariff C1 Commercial= 57.09 kWh x 0.365RM/kWh

= RM

17.30

Payback Period for

Residential Tariff A= 230 RM / 12.44 RM/month = 18.5 years
Commercial Tariff B = 230 RM / 24.83 RM/month = 9.3 years
Commercial Tariff C1 = 230 RM / 17.30 RM/month= 13.3 years

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