Analisis Kenyamanan Termal Mahasiswa Pengguna Ruangan Kelas di Lingkungan Fakultas Teknik USU

Abstract

Thermal comfort in classrooms is a crucial factor that can significantly influence students’ concentration and productivity during the learning process. This study aims to analyze the distribution of airflow and the thermal comfort conditions in classrooms at the Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FT USU), specifically in rooms J03.208 and J03.312 of the Civil Engineering Department, with J15 Seminar Room of Industrial Engineering serving as a comparison. The research employed direct measurements of air temperature, humidity, and wind speed, alongside Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to visualize indoor airflow distribution. Thermal comfort assessments were conducted using the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and Predicted Percentage Dissatisfied (PPD) indices in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 55-2020. The results showed that rooms J03.208 and J03.312 had PMV values exceeding the recommended comfort range, with uneven airflow distribution due to variations in cooling systems. In contrast, the J15 Seminar Room met both national and international thermal comfort standards, indicating optimal thermal conditions. These findings highlight the critical role of effective cooling systems and airflow distribution in achieving thermal comfort. This study is expected to serve as a reference for planning and improving ventilation and air conditioning systems in educational spaces to enhance the quality of the learning environment.