Analytical Modeling and Performance Study of a Cross Flow Air Dehumidifier Using Liquid Desiccant

The dehumidifier is a key component in liquid desiccant air conditioning systems. Various mathematical models of heat and mass transfer processes inside the dehumidifier are introduced and numerically solved in the literature. Analytical solutions have more advantages than numerical solutions in studying the dehumidifier performance parameters. This paper presents the results from an analytical model for the performance of an adiabatic cross flow liquid desiccant air dehumidifier. Calcium chloride is used as desiccant material in this investigation. Both humidity and temperature effectiveness of the dehumidifier are used to predict the performance of the device under various operating conditions. Good accuracy has been found between analytical solution and reliable experimental results with a maximum deviation of +6.63% and -5.65% in the moisture removal rate. The method developed here can be used in the quick prediction of the dehumidifier performance. The exit parameters from the dehumidifier are evaluated under the effects of variables such as air temperature and humidity, desiccant temperature and concentration and air to desiccant flow rates. The results show that hot humid air and desiccant concentration have the greatest impact on the performance of the dehumidifier.