Experimental investigations on the performance of a packed bed dehumidifier for various climatic conditions

ABSTRACT To simulate space cooling or drying systems for various geographical regions (low, moderate, and high humidity regions) a liquid desiccant system consisting of a humidifier and dehumidifier has been designed and constructed. This system consists of two coupled humidifying and dehumidifying packed columns filled with plastic Intalox Snowflake packing material. Experimental measurements of the dehumidifier performance utilizing a new effective liquid desiccant mixture (CELD) total desiccant salt content 40%wt.to 45%wt (salt comprised of equal portions by weight of lithium chloride and calcium chloride ), have. been carried out, The effect of different independent variables such as packing height, air inlet temperature and humidity ratio, and liquid desiccant inlet temperature, flow rate and concentration on the performance of the dehumidifier has been investigated. Experimental results demonstrate that the CELD is a promising desiccant for cooling and drying operations.