Research on a Refrigeration Dehumidification System with Membrane-Based Total Heat Recovery

Abstract

An independent air dehumidification system is helpful to improve indoor air quality and decrease energy consumption by heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). A refrigeration dehumidification system with membrane-based total heat recovery is the key equipment to realize this goal. The system comprises two subsystems: a membrane total heat recovery and a direct expansion refrigeration system. The total heat exchanger has a membrane core where the incoming fresh air exchanges moisture and temperature simultaneously with the exhaust air. In this manner, the total heat or enthalpy from the exhaust air is recovered. Then the fresh air flows through a cooling coil where it is dehumidified below the dewpoint. Finally, the cold and dry air is supplied to indoors. A prototype of practical application is designed and fabricated. Experiments are conducted under variable operating conditions in the psychrometric calorimeter chamber. The effects of varying operating conditions like temperature and air humidity on the air dehumidification rate, cooling power, coefficient of performance, and compressor power are evaluated with indoor exhaust air dry bulb 27°C, wet bulb 19°C, and fresh air flow rate 200 m3/h. In comparison with a conventional refrigeration dehumidification system, the coefficient of performance and air dehumidification rate of the prototype are 2.3 times and 3 times higher, respectively. The performance of the prototype is rather robust under a hot and humid environment.