System Takes Hot Air Out of Politics

Staff -- Consulting-Specifying Engineer, 12/1/2000

Before hosting two Republican National Convention events last summer, the Engineers Armory in Philadelphia had a problem. Built in 1916, the 42,000-square-foot historic armory had no heating, ventilation or air-conditioning system.

To ready the facility for the events, a model gas/electric integrated system was designed, featuring two 4500-cubic-feet-per-minute desiccant dehumidifiers that are regenerated by natural gas. The system also includes two 90-ton electric direct-exchange air conditioners, gas piping and ductwork.

The efficiency of the desiccant system depends on a dehumidifying wheel that acts like a giant sponge to absorb moisture from the air. The technology also allows facilities to conserve energy by reducing the load on existing air conditioning or total cooling tonnage required.

Desiccant dehumidification is said to create the ideal indoor climate because it helps control moisture and temperature separately. The units delivered processed air that contained only 25-percent relative humidity. At this level, the air conditioner could easily carry the cooling load.

For more information about dehumidification systems from Munters Moisture Control Services, circle 101 on the Reader Service Card.