Modular Radiant FlooringSystem for Military Shelters

TIAX LLC proposes to dramatically cut fuel consumption for expeditionary shelter heating by further developing its modular hydronic radiant flooring system, powered by direct fuel-fired water heating. In Phase I, we analyzed, designed, fabricated, and tested a single radiant floor panel in a scaled-down shelter. At -25 F ambient and 60 F perceived temperature, we found that in comparison with an electric forced hot air ECU, the TIAX radiant heating system installed in a full-scale HDT STAT32 shelter would provide fuel savings of 60-80%. In terms of heat demand, the TIAX radiant heating system would provide, on average 20%, and up to 46% reduction compared to the ~74,000 Btu/h (21.6 kWe) currently required to heat the shelter under similar conditions. In Phase II, TIAX proposes to build upon the feasibility demonstrated in Phase I and refine the design through reduced-scale testing. We will fabricate one full-scale alpha-prototype radiant heating system with controller to control perceived temperature. We will support government sanctioned test and evaluation of the alpha-prototype system, appropriately instrumented and installed in a shelter. Leveraging results from this testing, we will make any needed design changes and build one additional full-scale beta prototype.