The Unit of Energy Efficient Building was represented twice at the 19th Advanced Building Skins Conference in Bern. In the session "Deep Serial Renovation with Prefabricated Multifunctional Facades", Sascha Hammes (presentation on the OutPHit project) and Fabian Ochs (chair and presentation on the facade-integrated heat pump) presented their current research.
Overview of the session
Strategies and measures for scaling serial renovations in multi-storey residential buildings
Strategies and first steps towards scaling serial renovations in Austria
Susanne Formanek from Renowave.at in Vienna is analysing approaches for the efficient implementation and scaling of serial renovations in Austria. The focus is on lighthouse projects that serve as examples of best practice and can pave the way for further projects. The main challenges are the high initial costs and the technical complexity of such projects. The identification and realisation of cost reductions and the promotion of sustainable construction methods should help to achieve long-term benefits for the environment and energy efficiency.
Cost analysis of traditional and industrial refurbishment scenarios
Stefano Avesani from Eurac Research in Bolzano compares the costs and benefits of traditional and industrial renovation approaches. The analysis shows that prefabricated, multifunctional façades are technically and economically advantageous in many cases. A detailed cost analysis tool makes it possible to systematically assess the specific advantages and disadvantages of the different approaches. The comparison shows that industrially manufactured elements can offer cost advantages in certain situations, particularly by reducing construction time and improving quality assurance.
Evaluation of serial refurbishment concepts
Sascha Hammes from the University of Innsbruck analyses the potential of serial renovations based on real case studies. Planning and optimisation tools, which were developed as part of the OutPHit project, are necessary for the selection of suitable systems. Monitoring as a quality assurance measure is an important part of the process and ensures that the targeted energy savings and comfort improvements are achieved.
Modular and circular approach to façade refurbishment
Simon Schmidt from the Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics in Germany, presents sustainable and modular refurbishment approaches for building envelopes. Customised façade modules and an end-to-end digital process are key components of serial refurbishment concepts. By using modular and circular construction methods, materials and processes can be utilised more efficiently, leading to a reduction in environmental impact and long-term cost savings.
Thermal activation of external walls as a heating system
Thomas Rosskopf-Nachbaur from the Vorarlberg Energy Institute demonstrates the thermal activation of external walls for heating using the SüdSan project as an example. Measurements and cost comparisons show that thermal activation can be an efficient and cost-effective solution for improving the efficiency of a building and reducing energy costs. The main advantage compared to low-temperature radiators is the possibility of installation with minimal intervention in the flats (minimally invasive).
Prefabricated intelligent multifunctional façades with building technology and renewable energies
Petros Antonios Gerogiannis from the National Technical University of Athens evaluates the energy savings and comfort of a prefabricated multifunctional façade that integrates heating, ventilation and air conditioning as well as renewable energy (all-in-one panels). A simulation study shows the precise temperature control by a comfort-controlled TGA system (PMV: Predicted Mean Vote).
Holistic design of a façade-integrated heat pump
Fabian Ochs from the University of Innsbruck presents an innovative split R290 air-to-water heat pump with a façade-integrated outdoor unit. An optimal design and optimised operating characteristics were achieved through a simulation-based approach at component, cooling circuit and system level. The integration of this technology into the façade offers new possibilities for energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing renovations.
The strategies and technologies presented illustrate that serial renovation concepts have great potential to make the construction sector more sustainable. By putting industrial solutions such as prefabricated modules, thermal activation and integrated façade technologies into practice, costs and energy consumption can be significantly reduced in the long term.