What does a building thermal engineer do?
The Building Thermal Engineer is an expert in the energy performance of buildings. They play a vital role in the design of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems aimed at ensuring the thermal comfort of occupants while optimising the energy efficiency of buildings. Whether for construction or renovation projects, their objective is to design sustainable and economical solutions that comply with environmental requirements and current regulations.
DUTIES OF A Building Thermal Engineer
The primary task of the Building Thermal Engineer is to ensure the energy performance of buildings while providing optimal comfort for users. This begins in the design phase, where they assess the building’s energy needs based on its size, purpose (residential, commercial, industrial), geographical location, and the materials used. They work closely with architects and other engineers to define the most suitable thermal solutions.
To do this, they carry out detailed thermal studies, including numerical simulations to analyse the building’s thermal behaviour. This helps determine the heating, cooling, and ventilation needs while integrating energy consumption criteria and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They must also assess the performance of existing energy systems in renovation projects.
The Building Thermal Engineer must then propose optimal technical solutions. This may include selecting high-efficiency heating systems (boilers, heat pumps, etc.), dual-flow ventilation systems, or solutions based on renewable energy, such as solar thermal or geothermal energy. Their goal is to maximise the building’s energy efficiency while minimising the environmental impact and adhering to regulations, such as the thermal regulation RT 2012 in France, soon to be replaced by RE 2020.
Beyond the technical aspects, the Thermal Engineer must also consider the economic side. They ensure that the proposed solutions are financially viable, both for the initial investment and for long-term operating costs. This involves conducting profitability analyses to compare various technological options and find the best compromise between energy performance, cost, and durability. As a project manager, they are also responsible for coordinating different stakeholders (installers, suppliers, etc.) and overseeing the work to ensure that installations meet the specifications and deadlines.
What qualities are needed to do this job?
To excel in this profession, the Building Thermal Engineer must have solid skills in thermodynamics, energy systems, and building technology. A thorough knowledge of thermal standards and regulations is essential, as well as proficiency in thermal simulation software. The engineer must also be a good communicator and an excellent project manager, capable of working with a wide range of stakeholders while maintaining a holistic view of profitability, quality, and system sustainability.
In summary, the Building Thermal Engineer is a key player in the energy transition of the building sector. Their ability to design high-performance thermal systems that are environmentally friendly, while optimising costs, makes them essential in addressing the current challenges related to building energy performance and reducing carbon emissions. At ENSTIB, the Engineering programme offers training in Building Thermal Engineering within the wood sector, which fully meets the skill requirements for this exciting career.
WhICH COURSE?
PROFILE OF a building thermal engineer
PROCLIMA offers high-performance air and wind sealing systems to protect the building and ensure that the building envelope insulation performs its function effectively.
Bastien Garenaux, a 2019 ENSTIB graduate, supports the company’s clients, from individuals to professionals, in implementing the new CSTB standards. The CSTB standards primarily concern the quality, safety, and performance of materials, techniques, and construction works. They cover several areas, such as construction materials: standards on the resistance, durability, and thermal, acoustic, and mechanical properties of materials, and also construction techniques, rules for the installation, assembly, and maintenance of equipment and infrastructure, and finally energy efficiency and fire safety.
As part of his work, Bastien visits construction sites and collects data using sensors (there are even some at ENSTIB!).
At first, during my engineering studies at ENSTIB, I was more inclined towards construction project management, but in my third year, my final project led me to PROCLIMA, and that was decisive for my future. I then shifted my focus to building thermal engineering.
Bastien Garenaux
ENSTIB Engineer class of 2019