Simulation of an attic radiant barrier system in arid climates

A computer simulation is developed which simulates the transient effects of storage and all modes of heat transfer in an attic radiant barrier system (ARBS) for arid climates. The model treats each attic section as a three-node network, using an explicit finite-difference scheme. This allows easier modeling of the surfaces incorporating variable conductivities of the different materials as a function of temperature. The heat-transfer mechanisms involved are conduction, convection, and radiation through the wood and between the various inner attic surfaces as part of an enclosure. The ARBS was assumed to be placed horizontally on top of the insulation with an air gap between the two materials. The results are mainly for testing the model´s numerical behavior rather than for obtaining accurate results of its physical behavior