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Contol of integrated mechanical dehumidification and passive cooling systems to produce energy efficient comfort

Conference · · Proc. Annu. Meet. - Am. Sect. Int. Sol. Energy Soc.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6630586
Detailed computer simulations validated by full scale testing indicate that roof pond type passive cooling systems can provide acceptable residential temperature conditions in all climates of the United States. Passive cooling systems as presently conceived, however, require complementary dehumidification to carry existing latent loads. A study is made of the relative dehumidification efficiencies of conventional air conditioners and an improved mechanical dehumidifier which utilizes sensible cooling recovery. The effects of dew point and dry bulb temperatures, controller set point and humidity band width, infiltration, and climate are evaluated. A simple dehumidifier sizing procedure is presented. Results indicate that the improved dehumidifiers are several times as efficient as conventional air conditioners under desired steady state room conditions. It is also shown that dehumidifier capacities at AHAM test conditions may be misleading if used for design purposes.
Research Organization:
Trinity Univ., San Antonio, TX
OSTI ID:
6630586
Report Number(s):
CONF-820629-Vol.5-Pt.2
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Proc. Annu. Meet. - Am. Sect. Int. Sol. Energy Soc.; (United States) Journal Volume: 5
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English