Which software can model a low temp VAV with PFP boxes.
Can a low temperature VAV system be modeled explicitly in any of the energy modeling softwares? The system I am trying to model tempers the SA down to 46F at the AHU cooling coil, then a parallel fan power box (variable speed ECM running continuously when the AHU is on) mixes RA with the low temp SA to about 55F before it is delivered to the space to avoid occupant comfort problems associated with dumping cold air. During cooler months the cooling coil leaving air temp would be reset to 55F in order to reduce the amount of reheat required.
I have spoke with a Trane product support and Trace cannot model the 46F LAT from the coil with 55F SA temp to the space unless I were to add 9F of duct loss, which would negate the benefit of using a low temp VAV system. Is it possible to model this in any of the other programs such as eQuest, EnergyPlus or IES?
I've recently modeled a VAV with PFP boxes using OpenStudio with more standard supply air temperatures. While I can't think of any issue with lowering the supply air temperature, I believe the fan on parallel PIUs need to be constant volume and not variable speed as your design suggests.
That's an answer, not a comment.
I second @pflaumingo. If you decide to take EnergyPlus route,
AirTerminal:SingleDuct:ParallelPIU:Reheat
is what you'll need. But the limitation is that PIU fan should be constant speed and not variable speed.