A novel pulse width modulation for metal radiant panels to control the condensation risk in a hot and humid environment

Abstract

A novel pulse width modulation (PWM) control method with surface condensation-evaporation cycle was proposed for metal radiant panels to control the condensation risk in hot and humid environments. Through an on-off solenoid valve, a whole cycle of the PWM consists of a fixed on-period duration, i.e., 20 min and an adjustable off-period duration in order to guarantee the formed condensate water on the panel during the on period evaporated completely at the end of the off period. A numerical heat transfer model of the radiant panel validated by experiment was utilized to evaluate the dynamic thermal performance of the PWM. According to the simulation results, the maximum accumulated condensation mass in the whole cycle was far smaller than the falling criteria of condensate droplets, revealing the ability of the PWM in eliminating the negative effects of surface condensation on the indoor environment. Furthermore, compared with the variable temperature control method with a supply water temperature equal to the dew point temperature, the radiant panel utilizing the PWM provided a 10% higher cooling capacity. The radiant metal panels using the PWM has an application prospect for retrofit buildings with low airtightness of the envelope in hot and humid regions by a significant reduction of condensation risks.