Ánalise térmica em construção utilizando o método construtivo Insulated Concrete Forms na cidade de Guarapuava - PR

Abstract

To ensure the residents’ quality of life, it is essential that buildings be designed to provide adequate levels of thermal comfort. The thermal performance of a building is directly related to its ability to offer a pleasant indoor environment, regardless of external climatic conditions. In this context, this study aims to evaluate the thermal performance of a building constructed with ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) technology, located in the municipality of Guarapuava, PR, in accordance with the criteria established in the ABNT NBR 15575-1 standard, which defines the requirements for the thermal performance of residential buildings in Brazil. This analysis is fundamental to verify whether the construction provides thermal comfort and energy efficiency. The evaluation was carried out through computer simulations using SketchUp, EnergyPlus, and Therm software. These tools enabled the three-dimensional modeling of the building, as well as a detailed analysis of its thermal characteristics, considering the specific climatic conditions of the Guarapuava region. Normative parameters were considered, such as the percentage of hours within the comfort range (PHFTAPP and PHFTUH), maximum and minimum operative temperatures, thermal properties of materials, natural ventilation, and the comparison between the real model and the reference model. The simulations indicated that the ICF system presents superior performance, with greater thermal stability, lower temperature amplitude, and comfort percentages exceeding 90% compared with the reference model. The operative temperatures also met the normative limits, demonstrating greater energy efficiency for the region. The analyzed data showed that the building fully complied with the criteria and requirements for thermal performance established in ABNT NBR 15575-1, ensuring comfort and improved environmental quality for its residents.