A test method to evaluate the thermal performance of window glazings

An apparatus and a methodology to evaluate the thermal performance of windo w glazing are presented. Single glazings commercially available in Mexico a re currently tested. During the test sequence, the glass samples are mounte d in a specially designed calorimeter apparatus. The test is conducted in c ontrolled laboratory conditions at the National Centre for Research and Tec hnology Development in Mexico using a solar simulator test lamp. The calori meter apparatus and the solar simulator test lamp were characterised and th e overall heat loss coefficient U-c measured was of 1.7 +/- 0.1 W/m(2)degre es C. Overall heat transfer and shading coefficients are derived from the e xperimental results. The test method described allows the testing of practi cally any kind of glazing array. Glasses under investigation were of the re flective, absorbing coloured and common ones. This test method can be adequ ate to evaluate film coating glazing or multiple solar control coating glaz ing. Also, it can be of assistance to researchers, glass manufacturers and building designers in the development of rating and comparing of glazing op tions. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.