A computational fluid dynamics analysis of the Hypogeum

Abstract

In this work, a computational Fluid Dynamic; (CFD) model of the Hypogeum is presented. The first objective of the project primarily consists in the setting np and testing o± the mesh to be used for CFD simulations of the Hypogeum. Given the ve1y complex geometry being considered, the intent is to obtain a mesh that compromises effectively between computational time, ease of building (in case this needs to be changed to account for example for the presence of people) and reliability of results. A detailed 3D model of the site is used to set up the mesh. Subsequently, in order to test its performance, under realistic conditions, data on the temperature distribution particularly on the wall as well as the measured flow speeds. will ultimately be used to validate the simulations. The initial encouraging results of the simulations presented in this study, indicate that a reliable model of the Hypogeum is possible given the appropriate boundary conditions. In so doing, the number of deliverables presented in this study lay the foundation on which future full scale simulations of the environment can be performed