3-Dimensional Steady State Thermal Analysis are performed chiefly to assess the condensation risk of those details that escape the 2D representation, such as shading brackets, anchors, and framing intersections  in verification of impact of thermal bridging caused by components penetrating the heat-control layer in two directions.

Sample 3-Dimensional Steady State Thermal Analysis

The image above shows the Sample 3-Dimensional Steady State Thermal Analysis, revealing the thermal irregularities at the skylight rafter. Would the water condensing underside the glass be drained safely outside in a winter? Only the 3D simulation can answer a question like this. In this example, the condensate drainage channels were found to freeze, which would prevent water discharge, and lead to water damage.

Note to Specifiers: If you specify 3D analysis, please kindly consider getting a second opinion. We observed some architectural specifications ask for 3D simulations to verify either irrelevant or inferior performance requirements. Not that we mind very much, but in our reports we have a fiduciary duty to report any observed weaknesses to contractors who hired us to perform the work. Your client may be unhappy to find out, because these simulations tend to be expensive.

You may also be interested in reading the following free technical publication PDF: Using 3D Thermal Modeling to Improve Performance Requirements (PDF, size 353 kB) by Karol Kazmierczak – JBED 2/2010