Experimental Investigation of the performance of a Desiccant Wheel

Abstract

Desiccant cooling systems have the potential to make a major contribution to the reduction of both
CFC’s emissions and electricity peak load. An experimental investigation on the sensible effectiveness of a
desiccant wheel is conducted. Measurements were made for a range of rotational speeds (0-5 rpm), regeneration
temperatures (50 to 60oC). A computer based calculation procedure using Excel worksheet was built, and applied
to estimate the effect of the desiccant wheel speed on the moisture removal and the sensible effectiveness. The
calculations were based on the experimental data obtained during the experiment. The results succeeded in
determining the optimum rotational speed for the desiccant wheel, the sensible effectiveness, the moisture removal
efficiency and the dehumidification coefficient of performance. It was found that the lower speeds gave better
results than the higher ones.