Study on a Novel Hybrid Desiccant Dehumidification and Air Conditioning System

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel hybrid desiccant dehumidification and air conditioning system. The aim is to achieve a higher energy efficiency to reduce the use of electricity by utilizing the desiccant dehumidification system to remove latent load, while the vapor-compression and IEC system meeting the sensible heat load. Experimental set-up has been built by combining the rotary desiccant wheel, heat exchangers with compressive cooling system. Tests are carried out at typical operative ranges for air conditioning applications, more specially for high humid regions in southeast China. Two desiccants namely LiCl and composite desiccant are used in the experiments. Results are reported both in terms of COP based on primary energy usage and electrical energy usage. Significant reduction in humidity ratio has been obtained through respective subsystem and thereby effecting a higher COP based on primary energy usage. The composite desiccant can achieve a COP close to that of LiCl while assuring a stable performance. It is found that the hybrid system can achieve a higher energy performance in hot humid regions.