Analysis of Zero Energy Building using ANSYS Software

CONTENTS
1. Abstract.........................................................................................................................................0
2. Introduction...................................................................................................................................1
3. Objectives of the study..................................................................................................................2
4. Aims.................................................................................................................................................3
5. Systems and materials for Zero Energy House.................................................................................4
1. Glue laminated timber...............................................................................................................4
2. Hollow blocks filled with fly ash concrete.................................................................................4
3. Green roof system......................................................................................................................5
4. Green plaster..............................................................................................................................5
5. Casement windows underfloor water piping system..................................................................6
6. Roofing system filled with foam................................................................................................6
7. Windows overhung....................................................................................................................7
6. Simulations....................................................................................................................................7
6.1. Introduction to Finite Element Method..................................................................................7
6.2. Introduction to ANSYS.............................................................................................................8
7. References...................................................................................................................................10
List of Fig.
Figure 1: Zero Energy House..................................................................................................................3
Figure 2 Systems and materials for Zero Energy House.........................................................................4
Figure 3 Green Plastering......................................................................................................................7

1. Abstract
This paper deals with the analysis of zero energy building using ANSYS software and the
suitable method adopted to generate the energy for the building which is renewable and
clean. Zero energy building refers to the building that consumes approximately zero energy
and utilizes 100% of the natural resources. They not only protect our environment but also it
provides good quality level of indoor environment. The study will be mostly focusing on the
materials used to build zero energy buildings e.g. green plaster, green house, timber etc. By
the uses of finite element method and ANSYS a conclusion is drawn regarding different
materials used for zero energy building construction. (S., 2015)
2. Introduction
Zero energy building refers to the building that consumes approximately zero energy and
utilizes 100% of the natural resources. These buildings play vital role and contributes majorly
in minimization of carbon emissions and protecting our environment. They not only protect
our environment but also it provides good quality level of indoor environment. They can be
built anywhere in our globe. They have a great potential in eliminating and reducing the
consumption of energy in ordinary buildings. (K. & E., 2012)

Figure 1: Zero Energy House
According to the research done in year 2012 zero energy buildings can save around 40% of
total world energy consumption. The most advantageous point for zero energy building is
that, they are environment friendly, affordable and are economic. Finite element analysis
(FEM) is the method adopted in order to study the zero energy building components and
working. ANSYS software is used in order to accomplish the purpose.
To be more specific, the study will be mostly focusing on the materials that are used to build
zero energy buildings e.g. green plaster, green house, timber etc.
Some places where zero energy buildings are successfully installed are North Texas (Oldest
zero energy building), Dallas USA and some countries near to Arctic Circle like New
Zealand. Zero energy building is mostly provided with solar shading system for summers,
super insulated envelope, heat recovery ventilation system, high performance windows and
doors, optional renewable energy system to achieve net zero etc. Zero energy buildings
produce much higher energy than it is actually consumed.
3. Objectives of the study
As mentioned above the basic objectives of the study are:
1. To minimize the use of energy without providing any harmful impact to environment
and without compromising the indoor environment quality. (I., et al., 2016)
2. To adopt suitable method for generating the clean energy.

As far the study is concerned in the project, FEM is the method used. Through FEM thermal
properties of the materials and the energy performance of the materials and the system are
analyzed.
Some of the materials that are included in the system are:
1. Glue laminated timber
2. Hollow blocks filled with fly ash concrete
3. Green roof
4. Green plaster
5. Casement windows under floor water piping system
6. Roofing system filled with foam
7. Windows overhang (The Constructor, 2018)
Green Roof Green Plaster
Hollow blocks Windows overhang
Figure 2 Systems and materials for Zero Energy House
4. Aims
There are several aims for designing and construction of zero energy building, some among
them are: