| Abstract | IRC's Building Envelope and Structure Program has a new and unique test facility that incorporates a computer automated environmental chamber with a weighing system for full-scale wall assemblies (2.43 m x 2.43 m), climate sensors, data acquisition systems and post-processing tools. The climatic chamber, which is unique in North America, is known as Envelope Environmental Exposure Facility (EEEF). It can simulate interior and exterior climatic conditions over an extended period of time, controlling both temperatures (ranging from -47° to +48° C) on the " weather" side of the wall and humidity levels ranging from 10 to 100% RH. Researchers, in conjunction with key industry partners, are using the facility to benchmark the thermal and moisture performance of walls in various climates, and the interfaces between walls and a) other building elements (such as windows) and b) at the penetrations. The EEEF has been used to gather key information regarding the rate of drying of specific wood-frame wall components when subjected to simulated rainfall. The development of the EEEF has been an on-going effort within the program to help address issues regarding effective moisture control in the building envelope. |
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