Humidity control
A vital level of air quality control
David Baird, senior application engineer at Dristeem discusses how to achieve healthier and more productive indoor environments with optimal humidity levels
C
ontrolling the relative humidity levels in commercial facilities not only safeguards the quality and integrity of products but also
enhances operational efficiency, reduces waste, and contributes to overall success and reliability. Precise humidity control helps protect sensitive equipment and materials from moisture-related damage, reducing the risk of corrosion, mould growth, and degradation. This, in turn, extends the lifespan of machinery and products, leading to substantial cost savings on maintenance and replacement. Many industries can benefit from this added layer of air quality control. To give just a couple examples, precise humidity control is vital in pharmaceutical manufacturing for the stability and efficacy of medications, especially solid dosage forms that are sensitive to moisture. Controlled humidity preserves raw materials and finished products, extending shelf life and ensuring consistent therapeutic outcomes. Optimal relative humidity levels also prevent microbial growth and contamination, aligning with regulatory standards and averting product recalls, thus safeguarding consumer health and safety. In electronics manufacturing, where delicate
components are susceptible to moisture-induced damage, optimal humidity levels prevent issues like soldering defects, corrosion on circuit boards, and electronic device malfunctions. In addition, controlled humidity fosters a stable production environment, reducing the risk of static electricity discharge. This is particularly critical in electronics assembly, where electrostatic discharge can lead to component failures. Maintaining controlled relative humidity levels in
commercial printing shops is crucial for optimising operational outcomes where moisture absorption in paper can lead to paper curling, ink misalignment, and compromised print quality. Controlled humidity ensures stable paper conditions, precise printing results, and less waste. For all these industries and more, the benefits of maintaining controlled relative humidity extend beyond preserving assets and reducing unnecessary costs. Ideal humidity levels also protect the company’s most valuable asset, its employees. Many studies have shown that indoor air quality impacts occupants’ health, comfort, and productivity. Maintaining the proper humidity level is crucial for preventing the proliferation of airborne viruses, bacteria, and other contaminants.
14 January 2024
www.heatingandventilating.net
survival and spread of pathogens and enhances occupants’ overall comfort. Two types of humidification technologies
are generally used in commercial applications: isothermal and adiabatic. Isothermal, or steam humidification, increases air humidity by directly adding steam to the air. This is typically accomplished by heating water to its boiling point, which converts it into steam. The steam is then injected into the air stream, mixing with the surrounding air, and raising the humidity level. These units can be powered by electricity, gas, or boiler steam and offer precise humidity control. Adiabatic humidification increases air humidity
by causing water to evaporate and humidify the air. Ultrasonic humidifiers have gained popularity for their efficiency and ability to produce a fine mist composed of microscopic water droplets that quickly evaporate, effectively increasing the humidity level in the environment. Another notable technology is atomization, which uses high- pressure air to forcibly break down water into tiny particles, creating a fine mist that the air readily absorbs. Adiabatic technology can contribute to energy efficiency and cost savings by cooling the air while providing humidification for a facility. Conversely, dehumidifiers remove excess
moisture from the air using either refrigerant or desiccant technology. Refrigerant dehumidifiers work by cooling the air and condensing moisture onto a coil. The condensate is then collected and drained away. Refrigerant dehumidifiers are the most common and effective in a wide range of conditions. Desiccant dehumidifiers use a desiccant material, such as silica gel or molecular sieve, to absorb moisture from one airstream. The desiccant is then rotated to a second heated airstream for regeneration, releasing the absorbed moisture into the regeneration air. By effectively removing excess moisture from the air, dehumidifiers safeguard building infrastructure, protect sensitive equipment, and ensure product quality and inventory integrity. For manufacturing facilities and other
commercial spaces, it is important to use commercial-grade humidity control equipment that is designed for large-scale applications requiring managed levels of humidity. DriSteem representatives are experts in humidity control systems and can help with system design and selecting the appropriate size and type of equipment based on the application. When designing a humidity control system, consider factors like the size of the space to be humidified, desired humidity level, type of environment, type of products or materials being stored or processed, and budget. DriSteem representatives can also guide and support installation and long-term maintenance of equipment. If a building already has a humidity control
According to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), maintaining indoor relative humidity levels between 40% and 60% is ideal for reducing the transmission of viruses. This range inhibits the
system, or if use and processes within the facility have changed over time, a review of the site will ensure that the existing equipment is appropriately sized, operating correctly, and energy efficient for the building. Your indoor air quality and the health of building occupants depend on it.
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