Problem of increased humidity in ice arenas and possible solutions

Abstract

This paper reviews the problem of high humidity in an ice arena in Sochi and ways of solving it. The authors consider the ventilation system structure and determine the causes of the high humidity—moisture in the water vapor forms and a cold surface of ice cools the surrounding space and objects. The consequences of this air state are fogging over the ice surface, namely, condensate formation, which exacerbates the quality of the ice rink, corrosion of steel and iron structures, and mold attack. In addition, the facility microclimate is uncomfortable for people to stay there. During this study, the authors identified several ways to achieve the necessary indoor air parameters. The first method is sorption dehumidification. This system can function at low temperatures and cope with extreme dampness, but it has significant costs. The second method, which is simpler and more effective, is assimilation. This method is based on the ability of warm air masses to hold a larger amount of water vapor than cold air masses. This method for improving the air parameters is more effective when required to modify an existing ventilation system. In this particular case, in the ice arena in Sochi, assimilation was the most effective method. Air coolers with a drift eliminator were installed in the existing ventilation system. The calculation of the selected heat exchangers was performed using ventilation equipment selection software (VESS).