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Comparison of the performance of open cycle air conditioners utilizing rotary desiccant dehumidifiers

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5347476

This paper presents the results of an investigation of open cycle cooling systems using rotary desiccant dehumidifiers. Three systems, the ventilation, recirculation, and Dunkle cycles have been modeled. The performance of these systems coupled with an air-based solar system has been determined using TRNSYS simulations of system operation in four representative US climates. The system COP, fraction of the total cooling load met by the desiccant system, and fraction of the thermal energy provided by solar energy are compared. An assessment of the effect of climate and system parameters on the relative performance of the three system configurations is made. It is shown that in order to meet residential loads of 7 to 11 kW with a COP on the order of unity, systems with high effectiveness must be employed. These systems were also found to perform well when operated solely with a solar thermal input.

Research Organization:
Wisconsin Univ., Madison (USA). Solar Energy Lab.
DOE Contract Number:
AC03-79SF10548
OSTI ID:
5347476
Report Number(s):
DOE/SF/10548-T2; ON: DE85018194
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English