Thickness Optimization of Kapok Fibre Insulation below Roof Pitch of Residential Buildings in Hot-Humid Climate with Mathematical Formulation

Abstract:

Kapok fibre possesses high thermal resistance and can retard the rate of heat flow into the building through the roof. Reduced heat flow into the building leads to reduction in the use of room air-conditioners that improves indoor thermal comfort, leading to lower electricity bills. Additionally, the cost of insulation increases with its thickness. Therefore, determining the optimum thickness of insulation is essential to maximize the cost savings over the service period of insulation. In this study, a house model design with a floor dimension of 3 m by 3 m, room height of 2.5 m and roof slope of 45° is employed to determine the optimum thickness of kapok fibre insulation for a placement below roof pitch of residential buildings under hot-humid climate and it is associated with cost savings. The findings suggested that a maximum cost savings of RM1148.84 can be obtained at the optimum thickness of 0.0604 m.

• Periodical: Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volume 699)
• Pages: 864-870
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMM.699.864
• Online since: November 2014
• Authors: Syed Ahmad Farhan*, Mohd. Faris Khamidi, Nadzhratul Husna Ahmad Puad
• Keywords: Kapok Fibre, Optimum Insulation Thickness, Roof Insulation, Thermal Comfort

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