Engineering Standard: IPS-E-AR-130

IPS-E-AR-130
ENGINEERING STANDARD
FOR
HUMIDIFICATION AND DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM
ORIGINAL EDITION
JAN. 1996
This standard specification is reviewed and

updated by the relevant technical committee on
Dec. 2002(1), June 2005(2) and Sep. 2015(3).
The approved modifications are included in the
present issue of IPS.
This Standard is the property of Iranian Ministry of Petroleum. All rights are reserved to the owner.
Neither whole nor any part of this document may be disclosed to any third party, reproduced, stored
in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent
of the Iranian Ministry of Petroleum.
Jan. 1996 IPS-E-AR-130
FOREWORD
The Iranian Petroleum Standards (IPS) reflect the views of the Iranian Ministry of Petroleum and are
intended for use in the oil and gas production facilities, oil refineries, chemical and petrochemical
plants, gas handling and processing installations and other such facilities.
IPS are based on internationally acceptable standards and include selections from the items
stipulated in the referenced standards. They are also supplemented by additional requirements
and/or modifications based on the experience acquired by the Iranian Petroleum Industry and the
local market availability. The options which are not specified in the text of the standards are
itemized in data sheet/s, so that, the user can select his appropriate preferences therein.
The IPS standards are therefore expected to be sufficiently flexible so that the users can adapt
these standards to their requirements. However, they may not cover every requirement of each
project. For such cases, an addendum to IPS Standard shall be prepared by the user which
elaborates the particular requirements of the user. This addendum together with the relevant IPS
shall form the job specification for the specific project or work.
The IPS is reviewed and up-dated approximately every five years. Each standards are subject to
amendment or withdrawal, if required, thus the latest edition of IPS shall be applicable
The users of IPS are therefore requested to send their views and comments, including any
addendum prepared for particular cases to the following address. These comments and
recommendations will be reviewed by the relevant technical committee and in case of approval will
be incorporated in the next revision of the standard.
Standards and Research department
No.17, Street14, North kheradmand

Karimkhan Avenue, Tehran, Iran .
Postal Code- 1585886851
Tel: 88810459-60 & 66153055
Fax: 88810462
Email: Standards@ nioc.ir
1
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
Throughout this Standard the following definitions shall apply.
COMPAN:
Refers to one of the related and/or affiliated companies of the Iranian Ministry of Petroleum such as
National Iranian Oil Company, National Iranian Gas Company, National Petrochemical Company
and National Iranian Oil Refinery And Distribution Company.
PURCHASER:
Means the “Company” where this standard is a part of direct purchaser order by the “Company”,
and the “Contractor” where this Standard is a part of contract document.
VENDOR AND SUPPLIER:

Refers to firm or person who will supply and/or fabricate the equipment or material.
CONTRACTOR:
Refers to the persons, firm or company whose tender has been accepted by the company.
EXECUTOR:
Executor is the party which carries out all or part of construction and/or commissioning for the
project.
INSPECTOR:
The Inspector referred to in this Standard is a person/persons or a body appointed in writing by the
company for the inspection of fabrication and installation work.
SHALL:
Is used where a provision is mandatory.
SHOULD:
Is used where a provision is advisory only.
WILL:
Is normally used in connection with the action by the “Company” rather than by a contractor,
supplier or vendor.
MAY:
Is used where a provision is completely discretionary.
2
CONTENTS: PAGE No.
0. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 4
1. SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................ 5
2. REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................ 5
3. DEFINITIONS & TERMINOLOGY .................................................................................................. 5
4. UNITS .............................................................................................................................................. 7
PART 1 : GENERAL ENGINEERING
5. AIR CONDITIONING AND HUMIDITY CONCEPTS ...................................................................... 8

6. TECHNOLOGY OF HUMIDITY CONTROL .................................................................................... 9
PART 2 : HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM
7. HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM ......................................................................................................... 11

8. METHOD OF HUMIDIFICATION .................................................................................................. 11
9. TYPE OF HUMIDIFIERS ............................................................................................................... 12
10. HUMIDIFIER SELECTION .......................................................................................................... 13
11. LOAD CALCULATION FOR HUMIDIFICATION ........................................................................ 14
12. HUMIDIFIER USAGE LIMITATIONS.......................................................................................... 15
PART 3 : DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM
13. DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM .................................................................................................. 16

14. SOURCES OF MOISTURE (FOR DEHUMIDIFICATION LOAD CALCULATION) ................... 17
15. METHOD OF DEHUMIDIFICATION (DRYING AIR) .................................................................. 18
PART 4 : CONTROL SYSTEM FOR HUMIDIFICATION AND DEHUMIDIFICATION ................. 21
16. CONTROL SYSTEM ................................................................................................................... 21
PART 5 : ATTACHMENTS
3
0. INTRODUCTION
In view of the importance of indoor air quality and the health factor demanded by the occupants and
the environmental regulation for storing of hygroscopic and non-hygroscopic materials, this
Standard is established on the basis of accumulated knowledge and experience for design
engineers on humidification and dehumidification system.
Since the design of humidification and dehumidification varies with different system and since these
cannot be verified under one heading, therefore this Standard is divided into the following parts:
Part 1 : General Engineering
Part 2 : Humidification system
Part 3 : Dehumidification system
Part 4 : Control system for humidification and dehumidification
4
1. SCOPE
This Standard sets forth standard engineering techniques covering minimum requirements for
determining moist and dry air, applying design and description on types of industrial, commercial,
institutional and residential humidification and dehumidification. It covers the various methods,
recommended uses and limitations of individual system for the humidification and dehumidification.
Note 1:
This standard specification is reviewed and updated by the relevant technical committee on
Dec. 2002. The approved modifications by T.C. were sent to IPS users as amendment No. 1
by circular No. 189 on Dec. 2002. These modifications are included in the present issue of
IPS.
Note 2:
June 2005. The approved modifications by T.C. were sent to IPS users as amendment No. 2
by circular No. 268 on June 2005. These modifications are included in the present issue of
IPS.
Note 3:
Sep. 2015. The approved modifications by T.C. were sent to IPS users as amendment No. 3
by circular No. 461 on Sep. 2015. These modifications are included in the present issue of
IPS.
2. REFERENCES
Throughout this Standard the following dated and undated standards/codes are referred to. These
referenced documents shall, to the extent specified herein, form a part of this standard. For dated
references, the edition cited applies. The applicability of changes in dated references that occur
after the cited date shall be mutually agreed upon by the Company and the Vendor. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced documents (including any supplements and
amendments) applies.
ASHRAE (AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEATING REFRIGERATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

ENGINEERS)
ASHRAE Std 35-2010 "Method of Testing Desiccants for Refrigerant Drying"
ASHRAE Std 62.1-2013 "Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality"
ASHRAE Std 55-2014 "Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy"
ASHRAE Guidebook
2008 ASHRAE handbook HVAC systems and Equipment (SI) chapter 21, 22
UL (UNDERWRITER’S LABORATORIES)
UL-474-2014 "Dehumidifiers"
IPS (IRANIAN PETROLEUM STANDARD)

IPS-E-GN-100 "Engineering Standard for Units"
5
3. DEFINITIONS & TERMINOLOGY
a) Absolute Humidity: Is the weight of moisture content in a given sample of air,

expressed in grain per pound of dry air or pounds per pound of dry air.
b) Absorbent: A sorbent material which due to its affinity changes physically, and
chemically or both, during the sorption process.
c) Adsorbent: A sorbent material which does not change physically or chemically during
the sorption process.
d) Air, Dry: In psychrometry, air unmixed with, or containing no water vapor and
contaminants.
e) Air, Saturated: A mixture of dry air and saturated water vapor, all at the same dry-bulb
temperature.
f) Dehumidify: To reduce, by any process,the quantity of water vapor within a given space.
g) Dew Point Temperature: The temperature at which a given sample of air will be
saturated. It is the temperature at which the condensation of moisture begins when the air is
cooled.
h) Dry bulb Temperature: Dry bulb Temperature (DBT) is The Temperature of are easured
by a thermometer freely exposed to air but shielded from radiation and moisture.
i) Grains of Moisture: Convenient unit of measurement of water vapor. One grain equals
1/7000 pound avoirdupois (Historically, the average weight of a grain of wheat).
j) Humidify: To increase, by any process, the density of water vapor within a given space.
k) Fog: Suspended liquid droplets generated, by condensation from the gaseous to the
liquid state, or by breaking up a liquid into a dispersed state, such as splashing, forming
and atomizing.
l) Hygrometer: Instrument responsive to humidity conditions (usually relative humidity) of

the atmosphere.
m) Liquid sorbent: A liquid absorbent has the property of absorbing moisture from, or
adding moisture to the air, depending on the vapor pressure difference between the air and
the solution. The equilibrium vapor pressure of the solution depends on the temperature
and concentration of the solution.
n) Metabolism: Chemical changes in living cells by which the solid energy is provided for
vital processes. It is the process by which the body produces heat.
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o) Mildew: Is a thin, often whitish, growth produced on many kinds of surfaces by molds.
p) Mist: Constitutes liquid water composed of water droplets in suspension.
q) Perm: The unit of permanence, a perm is equal to one grain per square feet/hr. inch of
mercury vapor pressure difference.
r) Permeability: Water vapor permeability is a property of a substance which permits

passage of water vapor and is equal to the permanence of 1" thick of the substance.
s) Relative Humidity: Is the percent of moisture in the air at a given temperature compared
to the maximum it can hold at that temperature.
t) Solid sorbent: A solid adsorbent, having the property of absorbing moisture from, or
adding moisture to, a gas, such as an air water vapor mixture, depending on the vapor
pressure difference between the water in the gas and the water in the adsorbent.
u) Sorbent: A material which extracts one or more substances present in an atmosphere or

mixture of gases or liquids with which it is in contact, due to an affinity for such substances.
It refers to those materials having a large capacity for moisture, relative to their volume and
weight. Such materials are divided into either absorbent or adsorbent.
v) Wet bulb Temperature: the wet bulb Temperature is Temperature a parcel of air would
have if it were cooled to Saturation (100% Relative humidity) by the evaporation of into it
with the laten heat being.
Humidity ratio is the ratio between actual mass of water vapor present in moist air to the
mass of dry air.
4. UNITS
International System of Units (SI) shall be used, according to IPS-E-GN-100.
7
PART 1
GENERAL ENGINEERING
5. AIR CONDITIONING AND HUMIDITY CONCEPTS
5.1 Air Conditioning Concepts
5.1.1 Air conditioning processes such as heating, cooling; humidifying and dehumidifying together
with properties of moisture are shown graphically in Attachment 1 (Figure 1 and 2).
5.2 Humidity Concepts
5.2.1 General
There are three basic parts to environmental control:
- indoor air quality-its cleanliness and purity,
- temperature,
- relative humidity.
Of the three, the most ignored is the level of relative humidity (RH) probably because the effects of
temperature and air quality are more easily seen and felt than the effects of relative humidity. The
relative humidity (RH) can affect human health and comfort, operation of production materials,
quality and workability of production material, energy use and operating efficiency of a system.
5.2.2 Humidity level
5.2.2.1 High relative humidity levels inside a building cause destructive effects on building
components. Mold and mildew can attack wall, floor and ceiling coverings and condensation can
degrade health factors and many building materials.
Relative humidity as mentioned in ASHRAE Std 62.1-2013 is directly related to the Indoor Air
Quality (IAQ) and affects:
a) The health and comfort of building occupants.
b) Energy costs associated with cooling a structure.
c) Maintenance costs associated with the repair and replacement of building components.
5.2.2.2 Optimum zone for relative humidity are considered between 30% and 60% where health
factors and human comfort coincide. Deviations from the mid-range of relative humidity can result in
increased levels of bacteria, viruses, fungi, absenteeism and other factors that reduce air quality
and lead to respiratory problems as illustrated in Fig. 1 below:
8
OPTIMUM RELATIVE HUMIDITY RANGES FOR HEALTH (DECREASE IN BAR WIDTH

INDICATES DECREASE IN EFFECT)
Fig. 1
5.3 Dehumidification Concepts

Dehumidification is becoming increasingly important in the commercial and industrial field,
particularly towards the refrigeration and desiccant application. Solving dehumidification problems
shall be a service handled by HVAC&R organizations. However not all dehumidification problems
can be solved by refrigeration alone. Use of absorbents alone or combination of refrigeration and
desiccant are often the economically advantageous solution.
6. TECHNOLOGY OF HUMIDITY CONTROL
6.1 Air Conditioning and Humidity Control
6.1.1 Air conditioning process primarily involves the use of equipment for cooling or heating the air,
and for adding or removing moisture from it. The process of adding moisture to the air is known as
humidification, and the process of removing moisture is known as dehumidification.
6.1.2 In air conditioning the treatment of the atmosphere within a room or building involves the
control of temperature, moisture content, air purity and circulation in a manner that is conductive to
providing comfort and health for the occupants or for the purpose of creating conditions suitable for
the manufacture or preservation of the product being stored.
6.2 Air and Relative Humidity
6.2.1 The weight or density of mixture of gases, primarily nitrogen, oxygen and water vapor, with
small percentage of rare gases, referred to atmospheric pressure amounts to 101.35 kPa (14.7
lbs/square inch) at sea level. In accordance with Dalton’s law of Partial Pressure, each one of these
gases, including the water vapor, exerts its own partial pressure in the mixture, just as though the
other gases were not present at all. The sum of each of these partial pressures equals the total
9
pressure of the mixture. (Thus areas to be humidified must be isolated from nonhumidified areas).
6.2.2 Since at atmospheric pressure and 38°C (100°F), air can contain approximately 300 grains of
moisture per pound of dry air and exert a vapor pressure of 65.5m bar (1.933 inches of mercury),
concentration beyond this point will exceed saturation, and condensation of water vapor will occur.
6.2.3 Humidity in terms of partial pressures shall be considered as the movement of moisture from
one area to another, with the possibility of having air flow in one direction and the moisture flow in
the opposite direction, as the total pressure head may be opposite to the vapor pressure head.
6.2.4 The relative humidity of an air mixture is the ratio between the total amount of moisture which
an air mixture can contain and the actual amount of moisture in the air at a given condition. It is
normally measured by taking dry bulb and wet bulb thermometer readings. The intersection of this
reading plotted in a psychrometric chart corresponds to a relative humidity and specific or absolute
moisture content of the air mixture, expressed in grains of moisture per pound of dry air.
6.3 Moisture Flow Between Air and Materials
6.3.1 Moisture exists not only in the air, but also in all solids and liquid materials to some extent.
Hygroscopic materials such as wood or paper have this moisture all the way through them, while
materials such as steel and glass hold the moisture in pores on the surface.
6.3.2 Where materials are placed in a dry atmosphere, moisture will flow into the air gradually and
the materials will be progressively dried. As the air cannot hold as much moisture per unit of volume
as most hygroscopic materials, the air will soon be saturated with the moisture given off, and unless
new dry air is introduced, the drying process will soon stop. Thus the vapor pressure of air must
always be maintained at a lower level than that of the materials to be dried for the process to
continue.
6.3.3 Cold air is difficult to humidify as it does not give up heat as readily, hence special equipment
must sometimes be used. Also since cold fresh air make-up can cause condensation problems in
ducts, pre-heating arrangements are recommended.
6.4 Sensible and Latent Heating and Cooling
6.4.1 Four types of energy changes take place when heat or moisture is added or removed.
a) Sensible heating occurs when heat is added without the addition or reduction of
moisture.
b) Sensible cooling is the reverse of the above.
c) Latent heat also known as humidification is the addition of moisture without changing the
dry bulb temperature.
d) Latent cooling or dehumidification is the removal of moisture.
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PART 2
HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM
7. HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM
7.1 General
7.1.1 Water vapor is always present in the air, and moisture is either absorbed, or adsorbed or both,
or resulting from physical changes of state, and is present in most building space and material.
(Beside changes of state, other factors such as surface tension, viscosity and isotopes complicate
moisture behavior).
7.1.2 Water vapor condenses when the temperature of the air/vapor mixture drops below the dew
point, a consequence of either;
a) Vapor flow to a region of lower temperature.
b) A reduction in surface temperature.
7.1.3 The prime defense against harmful condensation are through control of humid air movement
within a building space and structure by means of airtight construction simultaneously preventing
the creation of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). (The SBS occurs when moisture and mold give rise
to respiratory illness among a building’s occupant. It is common in houses built directly on concrete
slabs).
7.2 The Need for Humidification

The problems caused by dry air will vary from one building to another and from one area to another.
With proper humidification system the following problems are prevented:
a) Static Electricity
b) Poor Moisture Stability
c) Poor Health and Comfort
7.3 Vapor Barrier and Insulation

Water vapor moves from higher to lower vapor pressure at a rate determined by the permeability of
the structure. This process is similar to heat except that heat flow is reduced by adding insulation
and vapor is reduced by addition of vapor barriers on insulation materials. The vapor barrier shall be
placed on that side of structures where high vapor pressure exists.
8. METHOD OF HUMIDIFICATION
The two most common methods by which moisture is introduced into an air stream are:
a) Water spray injection.
b) Steam injection.
8.1 Water Spray Injection
8.1.1 Water spray methods, whether injected directly or as a mist are adiabatic processes, that is no
heat is transfered to or from the working media. In the adiabatic process the following phenomena is
achieved.
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- Total heat remains constant.

- Reduction of sensible temperature.
- Addition of moisture.
8.1.2 Unless some method of pre-heating the air in the water spray system is employed, the
moisture absorbing capacity of the air is limited by the amount of dry bulb temperature depression.
8.2 Steam Injection
8.2.1 The use of steam as a means to add moisture to an airstream is very nearly isothermal
process. Since steam is already a vapor no additional heat is required to accomplish absorption by
the airstream.
8.2.2 Steam being pure, odor free, containing no mineral dust, can be easily controlled to maintain
the specified humidity. Steam eliminates the need for water in the heating ducts. Stagnant water
can provide a fertile breeding ground for algae and bacteria which are linked to odor and respiratory
irritation.
9. TYPE OF HUMIDIFIERS
The type of humidifiers mentioned below are used on central (air handlers or furnaces) ducted or
non-ducted systems suitable for residential, commercial and industrial application.
9.1 Single plenum humidifier with water distribution through installed on vertical warm air furnaces.
A motor and fan move the air for evaporation as heated air passes through the evaporator pad.
9.2 Under-cut and sidewinder humidifiers with nozzles without moving parts, operates in conjunction
with a blower motor in warm air ducts for a central forced air heating system.
9.3 Atomizing, Pan type or Wetted element humidifiers for central air system depend upon airflow
for evaporation and distribution and its description of types are as follows:
a) Pan type humidifiers can be either:
i) Basic pan type
ii) Electrically heated pan type
iii) Pans with wicking type plates
b) Wetted element type where air flow through such units are accomplished in one of three
ways:
i) Fan type or rotating drum type
ii) By pass type which are fan-less mounted on the supply plenum of the furnace
with an air connection to the return plenum
iii) Duct mounted type installed within the furnace plenum or ductwork with drum
type element
c) Atomizing type
Small particles of water are introduce directly into air stream by:
i) A spinning disc or cone which break the water into a fine mist
ii) Sprays which rely on water pressure to create fine droplets
iii) Spray nozzle use compressed air to create fine mist compressed air nozzle
humidifiers can operate in two ways:
1- Compressed air and water are combined inside the nozzle and discharged
onto a resonator to create fine fog at the nozzle tip.
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2- Compressed air is passed through an annular orifice at the nozzle tip, and
water is passed through a center orifice. The air create a slight vortex at the
tip, where the water breaks up into a fine fog on contact with the high-velocity
compressed air.
iv) A rotating disc which slings water droplets into the airstream from a water reservoir.
v) Ultrasonic vibrations are used as the atomizing force.
9.4 Electrode Steam Humidifiers

These units are mounted outside of the airstream using the electrode boiler principle electrically
with hot-element to produce pure steam from potable water. The steam is injected into the duct
through a dispersal manifold and the minerals from the water are left behind on the electrodes and
the steam cylinder.
9.5 Steam Grid Humidifiers

It is duct-mounted and applicable for low pressure direct steam which may contain an enclosure to
catch condensate. It should be mounted downstream from the coil.
9.6 Jacketed Dry-Steam Humidifiers

Uses a jacket separator to keep condensate from entering the duct, a situation that often leads to
microbial and fungus growth.
9.7 Air or Fan-powered Electric Humidifiers

For discharge of live dry-steam directly into space to be humidified, generally fan-less models are
used in conjunction with heat exchangers so that boiler steam can create steam from potable water,
suitable for ducted or ductless applications.
Note:
For additional information on type of humidifiers refer to chapter 21 of 2008 ASHRAE
handbook – HVAC systems and equipment (SI).
10. HUMIDIFIER SELECTION

A humidifier can be selected when the following parameters are known:
a) Moisture content of the air to be humidified.
b) Desired moisture content.
c) Amount of air to be humidified per unit time.
d) Available duct size or air handler space (or lack of ducts).
e) Sources of energy and application.
Note:
For design data sheet for humidifiers, reference is made to Attachment 2.
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11. LOAD CALCULATION FOR HUMIDIFICATION
11.1 Computation Method

The airflow rate can usually be determined from the system blower capacity, or if no blower exists,
from calculation of air infiltration rates specified by ASHRAE. The following formulas are
recommended for use in calculating the amount of moisture to be added to meet the desired
conditions.
a) For ventilation systems having natural infiltration,
H = ρVR(Wi − Wo ) − S + L
b) For mechanical ventilation systems having a fixed quantity of outside air,
H = 60ρQo (Wi − Wo ) − S + L
c) For mechanical systems having a variable quantity of outside air,
t −t 
H = 60 ρQ t (Wi − Wo )  i m  − S + L
 ti − to 
Where
H = humidification load, lb of water/h

V = volume of space to be humidified, ft³
R = infiltration rate, air changes per hour
Qo= volumetric flow rate of outside air, cfm
Qt= total volumetric flow rate of air (outside air plus return air), cfm
ti = design indoor air temperature, ºF
tm = design mixed air temperature, ºF
to = design outside air temperature, ºF
W i= humidity ratio at indoor design conditions, lb of water/lb of dry air
W o= humidity ratio at outdoor design conditions, lb of water/lb of dry air
S = contribution of internal moisture source, lb of water/h
L = other moisture losses, lb of water/h
ρ = density of air at sea level, 0.074 lb/ft
3
Note:
The Psychometric chart and the local weather data shall be referred to for parameters of
moisture content and desired moisture content.
11.2 Load Calculation Summary
11.2.1 Factors to consider

In order to determine the humidification load four basic values need to be known:
a) The design conditions of the humidified space, i.e. the temperature and humidity
required.
b) The conditions of the incoming air, i.e., the temperature and humidity available.
c) Incoming air volume and secondary conditions that can affect the humidification load.
d) Factors obtained from loads derived through sources of moisture.
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11.2.1.1 Temperature and humidity required

The design temperature and humidity of a space depends mostly upon the job being performed
once the design temperature and humidity have been established taking into consideration the
worst case of temperature and humidity.
11.2.1.2 Temperature and humidity available

The outdoor conditions provides the moisture available in the incoming air and the worst condition
shall be taken into consideration.
11.2.1.3 Incoming air volume

The following outlines the steps necessary to determine the amount of outside air being brought into
the humidified space and the corresponding amount of moisture required. Outside air is introduced
into a humidified space by the following means:
a) Through natural ventilation, i.e., opening and closing of doors and windows, and by
infiltration through cracks and openings in the building construction.
b) Through mechanical ventilation, i.e., the introduction of make-up air, or the exhausting of
stale air by the building HVAC system.
c) Through the economizer section of the HVAC system, if this feature is included in the
system.
Note:
For maximum accuracy all three items shall be estimated but the largest load considered.
12. HUMIDIFIER USAGE LIMITATIONS
12.1 The predominant method of humidifying the air in buildings with direct steam humidification is
with chemically (anti corrosion) treated live steam. Gross overfeed or misuse of live steam may
contain amines and frequent exposure to this chemical may be within OSHA limits, irritating to skin
and eyes.
12.2 To remain below permissible *OSHA exposure limits,pure demineralized, deionized or distilled
water shall be used for generating steam.
12.3 Demineralizers may be used to remove dissolve solids, but a check should first be made with
the humidifier manufacturer because treated water can be corrosive when in contact with some
materials.
12.4 High mineral content potable water should not be used, as scaling (clogged nozzles, tubes)
and precipitated solids (white dust carry-over into conditioned spaces) can create problems. Ion
exchange water softening units, where magnesium or calcium salts are exchanged for sodium salts,
may increase inefficiency. When using commercial water softeners, scaling due to undissolved solid
should be eliminated by periodic purging.
12.5 Any volatile amines that enter the workplace through the steam humidifier and recognized as
hazardous, must be measured and controlled as steam contaminants that cause environmental
impacts within the workplace.
Notes:
1) To prevent irritation, exposures and health hazards in workplace, amines shall be duly
treated for steam humidification. This steam shall not be overfeed, misused and/or
improperly applied.
2) Each ppm of applied chemical (as rust inhibitors, etc.) is estimated to lead to
approximately 270 mg/year of employee absorption. Inhalation of these water soluble
chemicals creates total absorption through the wetted tissues upon which respiratory
processes depend. Eyes of workers, whose workplaces are dosed with volatile amines are
easily irritated because of the contact absorption of the chemicals into their tear films.
* OSHA= Occupational Safety and Health Association
15
PART 3
DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM
13. DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM
13.1 General
13.1.1 Dehumidification of air involves the removal of moisture from the gas mixture and Indoor Air
Quality (IAQ) and productivity. Outdoor air may account for approximately 90% of the moisture load
entering the space.
13.1.2 To eliminate the moisture problem at an effective and reasonable cost, the engineer should
know how much moisture is present, how did it get in the facility and how to select the proper
dehumidification system.
13.1.3 A typical dehumidifier shall have the capability to effectively control the following:
- Humidity
- Dampness
- Rusting
- Moisture
- Mildew, mold and corrosion
- Warping and decay
- Building and structural damage
- Electrical failures
- Problems normally associated with excessive and uncomfortable humidity laden
environments
Note:
For design data sheet for dehumidifiers, reference is made to Attachment 3.
13.2 Application
Typical applications where desiccant dehumidifiers, requiring both the environmental conditions of
occupancy or process and the characteristics of the building enclosure can serve the humidity
control requirement are in the following areas:
- Critical storage areas such as for paper, film or tape
- Food processing and wrapping operations for candy manufacturing
- Computer and dry clean rooms
- Machine tools and die making
- Meat packaging and cheese producing
- Underground facilities/tunnel
- Storage and warehouse facilities for dry goods, metals, etc.
- Condensation control for water treatment plants and pipe galleries
- Pharmaceutical and research labs
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- Museum artifacts
- Electrical components
- Health and fitness areas
- Storage of hygroscopic and non-hygroscopic materials
- Drying of seeds, plastic granules, etc.
- Production of dry nitrogen
14. SOURCES OF MOISTURE (FOR DEHUMIDIFICATION LOAD CALCULATION)

Common sources of moisture in a facility to be dehumidified can be classified into the following
types.
a) Infiltration and permeation
b) Ventilation and fresh (make-up) air
c) Door and window opening
d) Product, process and people
14.1 Infiltration and Permeation
14.1.1 Infiltration and permeation are often considered similar where infiltration is the movement of
water vapor through cracks, joints and seals and permeation as the migration of water vapor
through materials such as brick and wood.
14.1.2 Moisture load in a space due to infiltration and permeation depend on factors such as the
actual moisture deviation, materials of construction, vapor barrier and room size all have an effect
on the vapor migration.
14.2 Ventilation and Make-Up Air

Where the facility uses fresh outside make-up air for ventilation as required by some building codes,
then this air can contribute to the moisture load. This is especially important in months when high
humidity is common.
14.3 Door Openings
14.3.1 The opening of doors and windows to the conditioned space or other openings such as
conveyer passages are sources of moisture. In these cases, the amount of moisture is directly
proportional to the frequency of the opening, the difference in indoor and outdoor moisture content
and the wind velocity at the opening.
14.3.2 The wind velocity shall vary depending on the location of the opening with respect to the
wind source. Local weather stations can provide details on the normal prevailing wind direction and
speed. However, a guideline is 20 m³/hr. (12 cfm) of outside air per square feet of opening.
14.4 Process and People

Process and people must also be included in the moisture evaluation. For indoor design conditions
for processes and places, reference is made to Attachment 6.
17
Note:
For information on various formulas, reference is made to relevant ASHRAE Guidebook.
15. METHOD OF DEHUMIDIFICATION (DRYING AIR)

There are several methods of drying air, the common types of which are:
a) Refrigerant dehumidification
b) Desiccant dehumidification
c) Make-up air method
d) Heat pump dehumidification
e) Compression method
Note:
All dehumidifiers shall conform to UL 474-1993.
15.1 Refrigerant Dehumidification
15.1.1 General
15.1.1.1 A refrigerant dehumidification system is a combination of sensible/latent cooling and

sensible heating. First the system cools the air to reduce the dry bulb temperature to the dew point.
Then latent cooling reduces the absolute humidity and finally the air is reheated increasing its dry
bulb temperature.
15.1.1.2 Refrigerant dehumidifiers reduce the moisture in air by passing the air over a cold surface,
removing the moisture by condensation. This method is effective for desired conditions down to
45% RH, able to achieve dew point as low as 2.8°C. This method requires moderate capital costs
and can recover much of the latent energy thus offsetting operating costs.
15.1.2 Modes of operation
15.1.2.1 In the dehumidification process heat is transferred from the room air to the refrigerant as it
passes through the evaporator coil. Having been cooled below its dew point, moisture will condense
on the coil. The resulting heat (latent) generated by this condensation process is absorbed by the
mechanical refrigeration system along with the power consumption of the compressor, and given up
as sensible heat to be distributed as required.
15.1.2.2 The closed-loop design mandates that a heat sink be available to convert the refrigerant
from gas to liquid in the condensing coil. Three types of potential heat sinks are:
- Air reheat
- Water reheat
- Cooling using a remote condenser
15.2 Desiccant Dehumidification
15.2.1 Various type of desiccant (drying agents) which are used in rotary wheel technology are:
- Silica gel
- Lithium chloride
18
- Activated alumina or charcoal

- Molecular sieve (synthetic zeolite)
15.2.2 Desiccants are drying agents (substance) that have a high affinity for water-so high, that they
can draw moisture directly from the surrounding air. Most desiccants are solid in their normal state
but some may be liquids. Desiccants shall be non-toxic, non-corrosive, shall be able to remove
bacteria and able to be continuously regenerated.
15.2.3 Desiccant dehumidifier use special materials that absorb or hold moisture through a process
of continuous physical absorption. The material does not change its size or shape when acquiring
the moisture and can be regenerated by applying heat. This technique is used effectively to dry air
in the range of 0 to 50% RH.
DESICCANT DEHUMIDIFIER
Fig. 2
15.2.4 Methods of applying desiccant dehumidifier can either be alone or in conjunction with cooling
equipment. The selection of equipment for any particular system will depend on the application, the
results which are desired, and the sources from which the air to be dehumidified is drawn.
15.2.5 Desiccant dehumidifier units suitable for indoor or outdoor may be divided into four basic
types:
a) Liquid absorbent
b) Rotary absorbent wheel
c) Packed tower adsorbent
d) Rotary bed adsorbent
15.2.6 Absorbents undergo chemical and physical changes when picking up moisture. Some like
silica gel do not undergo these changes but instead hold large amount of water on their particle
surfaces. The illustration of a desiccant dehumidifier using an absorbent to collect moisture in the
air is shown in Fig. 2.
15.2.7 The regeneration section uses heat to drive off the moisture, as the wheel turns, thus
continuously returning the drying agent to an active status. The heat used for regeneration
(recharged) process may be by steam, direct or indirect gas heat, electricity or in some cases by hot
refrigerant gas on its way to the condenser.
15.2.8 The desiccant in the liquid absorbent wheel is impregnated into thousands of honeycomb-
shaped cells mounted within a cylindrical rotating wheel between dehumidifying and regeneration
sectors that are separated by flexible seals.
The two air streams flow in opposite, or counterflow directions to increase efficiency. Water is
directly removed from the humid air as it flows through and contacts the desiccant material (see Fig.
2).
19
15.2.9 Dry food products may be stored at near freezing or below freezing temperatures, and the
humidity must be kept low at the same time to avoid the formation of mold, the deterioration of the
product, and the deterioration of the packaging that contain the product. Since the energy
requirements for low temperature refrigeration are much greater than for comfort air conditioning,
desiccant type dehumidification in conjunction with the cooling equipment can be incorporated. (In
this manner the air does not have to cool to a low level and reheated again to obtain humidity
control).
Notes:
1) The desiccant wheel is a bed with enormous contact surface for continuous regeneration
providing dry air at constant dew point down to -40°C without fluctuation or peaks.
2) Method of testing desiccants for refrigerant drying shall conform to relevant sections of
ASHRAE Std 35-2010 standards.
15.3 Make-Up Air Method

It uses the principle of dilution, removing a portion of the moisture laden air from a space and
replacing it with dryer air; net result being lower average moisture content. The outside make up air
method is difficult to apply in summer months and not recommended for cities with high humidity.
15.4 Heat Pump Dehumidification
15.4.1 The heat pump can be used for dehumidification at warmer temperatures upto 26.7°C (80°F)
and humid environments most often encountered in product or space drying applications.
15.4.2 It works by cooling the air to condense and drain away its moisture, then reheating it using
the latent heat energy recovered from the process of condensation. Under appropriate operating
conditions it can provide an extremely energy efficient and effective dry air solution.
15.5 Compression Method
15.5.1 Compression of dry air is effective when small air quantities are needed. When air is
compressed, the dew point is raised, that is, the temperature at which vapor will condense is raised.
15.5.2 This method has high installation and operational cost and most common when less than
160 m³/hr of dry air is required, mainly for industrial, petrochemical, hospital and laboratory
application.
20
PART 4
CONTROL SYSTEM FOR HUMIDIFICATION AND DEHUMIDIFICATION
16. CONTROL SYSTEM
16.1 Instruments and Transmitters
16.1.1 Control of any piece of dehumidification or humidification equipment can be handled by a

humidistat. A humidistat can either reduce humidity by bringing in outside or hot air, or add humidity
by activating the humidifier. (Measuring humidity with instruments such as hair hygrometer (sensing
element) invented 200 years ago shall not be used).
16.1.2 Thin-film humidity sensors (introduced in the early 1970s) are packaged into transmitters that
relay humidity data. These transmitters must be able to measure low moisture levels accurately and
rapidly.(Application for these transmitters have spread from weather balloon to industrial processes
and into hospital operating rooms, where they are used to protect patients and surgical staff from
hazardous bacteria and other microorganisms).
16.1.3 Mechanical sensors depend on a change in the length or size of the sensor as a function of
relative humidity. The most commonly used sensors are synthetic polymers or human hair. They
can be attached to a mechanical linkage to control the mechanical, electrical, or pneumatic
switching element of a valve or motor. This design is suitable for most human comfort applications,
but it may lack the necessary accuracy for industrial applications.
16.1.4 A humidity controller is normally designed to control at a set point selected by the user.
Some controllers have a setback feature that lowers the relative humidity set point as outdoor
temperature drops to reduce condensation within the structure.
16.1.5 Measuring humidity with these instruments should be with an accuracy of ±1% and dew point
temperatures to ±0.1°C (±0.2°F), capable to detect moisture as low as 10 to 20 ppb (parts per
billion).
16.1.6 In traditional HVAC applications, humidity transmitters may not be required to be highly
accurate or stable, and the instrument can drift a few percent each year without creating headaches
for its caretakers. Hospitals must be provided with stable and accurate transmitter to prevent the
growth of bacteria and other contaminants.
16.1.7 Electronic type of humidistat shall be used for close control. These have as a sensing
element a wire coated with a salt material, and the amount of moisture absorbed by the salt
changes the resistance of the electrical circuit of the wire element, and this in turn operates a relay
within the humidistat. The electronic devices shall be capable to control to 1% RH at the point on
the scale at which they are selected, as each sensing element may be limited to a narrow range of
about 5% RH.
16.1.8 Electronic control is common in laboratory or process applications requiring precise humidity
control. It is also used to vary fan speed on portable humidifiers to regulate humidity in the space
more closely and to reduce noise and draft to a minimum.
16.1.9 Electronic controls are now widely used for residential applications because of low-cost,
accurate, and stable sensors that can be used with inexpensive microprocessors. They may
incorporate methods of determining outside temperature so that relative humidity can be
automatically reset to some predetermined algorithm intended to maximize human comfort and
minimize any condensation problems.
16.1.10 Pneumatic humidity control devices operate where the movement of the element causes a
change in control air pressure and this in turn will operate a pneumatic-electric switch to energize
the dehumidifier.
16.1.11 In order to measure a true average within the controlled space, the humidistat shall be so
located where it will not receive a direct blast from the air outlet of the dehumidifier or humidifier.
21
16.1.12 In a complete system where air is constantly being removed from and returned to the
controlled space, humidistat sensing element can be located on return air ducts, as long as air is
always circulating through the duct. If air flows only when the unit is in operation, then the
humidistat must be located within the space itself, preferably close to the return air duct.
16.1.13 Figure 3 shows general recommended locations for the humidistat for a centrally air-
conditioned room.
The manufacturer’s instructions regarding the use of the controller on counterflow furnaces should
be followed because reverse airflow when the fan is off can substantially shift the humidity control
point in a home. The sensor should be located where it will not be affected by (1) air that exits the
bypass duct of a bypass humidifier or (2) drafts or local heat or moisture sources.
RECOMMENDED HUMIDITY CONTROLLER LOCATION

Fig. 3
16.1.14 Along with a main humidity controller, the system may require other sensing devices:
• High-limit sensors may be required to ensure that duct humidity levels remain below the
saturation or dew-point level. Sometimes cooler air is required to offset sensible heat gains. In these
cases, the air temperature may drop below the dew point. Operating the humidifier under these
conditions causes condensation in the duct or fogging in the room. High-limit sensors may be
combined with a temperature sensor in certain designs.
• Airflow sensors should be used in place of a fan interlock. They sense airflow and disable the
humidifier when insufficient airflow is present in the duct.
• Steam sensors are used to keep the control valve on direct-injection humidifiers closed when
steam is not present at the humidifier. A pneumatic or electric temperature-sensing switch is fitted
between the separator and the steam trap to sense the temperature of the condensate and steam.
When the switch senses steam temperature, it allows the control valve to function normally.
16.1.15 For the steam humidification system, the steam valves shall be pneumatic, electronic or
electric. The control systems shall be on/off (2-position, solenoid valves), modulating, proportional
22
and multi-staging type. The steam metering valve shall be modulating normally closed type having
linear flow characteristics and shall close against the flow of steam.
16.1.16 Controllers shall preferably feature sturdy construction, stainless steel metal parts, high
setting accuracy, large setting ranges together with durable micro switches.
16.1.17 Various types of humidistat, such as, snap action high limit, proportional controlling, on-off
high limit etc., as required per job requirements may be used. For typical example of control
application and pneumatic piping for airoperated humidifiers reference is made to Attachments 4
and 5.
16.1.18 Control in VAV (Variable air Volume) systems is much more demanding than in constant
volume systems. VAV systems, common in large, central station applications, control space
temperature by varying the volume rather than the temperature of the supply air. Continual airflow
variations to follow load changes within the building can create wide and rapid swings in space
humidity. Because of the fast-changing nature and cooler supply air temperatures (13°C or lower) of
most VAV systems, special modulating humidity controls should be applied.
16.1.19 In VAV systems, best results are obtained by using both space and duct modulating-type
humidity sensors in conjunction with an integrating device, which in turn modulates the output of the
humidifier. This allows the duct sensor to respond quickly to a rapid rise in duct humidity caused by
reduced airflow to the space as temperature conditions are satisfied. The duct sensor at times
overrides the space humidistat by reducing the humidifier output to correspond to decreasing air
volumes. This type of system, commonly referred to as anticipating control, allows the humidifier to
track the dynamics of the system and provide uniform control. Due to the operating duct static
pressures of a VAV system, use of an airflow proving device is recommended to detect air
movement.
Notes:
1) Further information on the evaluation of humidity sensors can be found in ASHRAE
(1992a).
2) Further Information on Humidity Control system refer to Attachment 7.
16.2 Micro-Processor Controlled
16.2.1 This system shall be capable to display operating status, performance data and defined
parameters, through data using text and numbers displayed on Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
screens.
16.2.2 Networking systems shall be available as optional accessory; designating one unit as the
director linked to control between five to seven humidifier units. These shall respond to independent
humidistat or share an external control signal. The integrated standard shall allow linkage to a
personal computer or a Building Management control System (BMS). All operating data of interest
shall be transmitted and monitored by the computer.
16.2.3 Some humidifier manufacturers provide the circuitry necessary to accept a modulating signal
from most modulating humidity controllers with a set point (furnished by manufacturers of controls)
allowing for easy interface with a Building Automation System (BAS). In such cases fully integrated
modulation adapter shall be supplied.
23
PART 5
ATTACHMENTS
(The attachments are not part of this Standard but are included for information purpose only)
ATTACHMENT 1
24
ATTACHMENT 2
DESIGN DATA FOR

SPACE AND/OR PROCESS HUMIDIFICATION
PROJECT .............................................................................................................................................
ADDRESS ............................................................................................................................................
NAME OF AREA TO HUMIDIFY .........................................................................................................
DESCRIBE PROCESSING TO BE DONE IN THIS AREA .................................................................
CONDITIONS: DESIRED LEVEL OF RH____ % ACCURACY ± .....................................................%
MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE IN AREA: DURING HEATING SEASON ................................................
DURING COOLING SEASON .......................................................................
WHAT IS MINIMUM OUTSIDE DESIGN TEMPERATURE IN YOUR AREA ......................................
IS EXPLOSION PROOF SYSTEM REQUIRED ...................................................................................
..............................................................................................................................................................
AIR VOLUME: SIZE OF AREA TO BE HUMIDIFIED: L__ W__ H ......................................................
HOW IS AREA ISOLATED FROM NON-HUMIDIFIED AREAS IN THE BUILDING ...........................
.............................................................................................................................................................
TOTAL CFM AIR EXHAUSTED FROM AREA: WINTER ___ SUMMER...........................................
IS EXHAUST CONTINUOUS OR INTERMITTENT __________IF INTERMITTENT,
LONGEST PERIOD OF OPERATION IN ANY ONE HOUR OF TIME ….........................................
TOTAL CFM OF MAKE-UP AIR UNITS SUPPLYING THE AREA: WINTER ...................................
SUMMER...................................
IS MAKE-UP CONTINUOUS OR INTERMITTENT____________IF INTERMITTENT,
LONGEST PERIOD OF OPERATION IN ANY ONE HOUR OF TIME .........................
ARE THESE SYSTEMS SHUT DOWN WHEN THE PLANT IS NOT IN OPERATION ?
EXHAUST:_______________________ MAKE-UP AIR.................................................................
ANY OPEN DOORWAYS?_____ STAIRWAYS? .____ ELEVATOR SHAFTS? ……...................
TOTAL AREAS OF EACH:________________ ______________...............................................
........................................................................................................................................................
CONSTRUCTION DETAILS: LOOSE OR TIGHT? ____ INSULATION? WALLS ........................
ROOF ____ MATERIALS?____-BRICK ____ BLOCK ____ FRAME ____ STEEL .....................
VAPOR BARRIERS?: ROOF____ WALLS ______ FLOOR …....................................................
TOTAL WINDOW AREA____ Sq. Ft. SINGLE OR DBL. GLAZED?
……………………………………………………………………………...................…………................
HEATING SYSTEM: TYPE: WARM AIR ___ HYDRONIC___ STEAM ___ ELEC ..........................
FUEL: OIL___ GAS ___ COAL____ ELEC. ______
UNIT HEATERS ?.______ DUCTED DISTRIBUTION ?__________
IF DUCTED: TOTAL FAN CAPACITY ________________________CFM
OUTSIDE AIR ADDED __________________________ CFM
WARM AIR SUPPLY TEMPERATURE______________
DOES AIR MIX WITH AIR FROM OTHER NON-HUMIDIFIED AREAS ? …......................
IF SO, TOTAL CFM AIR DELIVERED TO AREA TO BE HUMIDIFIED .............................
(to be continued)
25
ATTACHMENT 2 (continued)
COOLING SYSTEM: (ANSWER ONLY IF LEVEL OF R.H. DESIRED EXCEEDS 50%)
TOTAL CAPACITY: ______(TONS) TOTAL CFM AIR OVER COILS .......................................................
AIR TEMPERATURE DROP ACROSS COILS ____IS SYSTEM DUCTED?...................................……
OUTSIDE AIR ADDED_____CFM. DOES AIR MIX WITH AIR FROM OTHER NON-
HUMIDIFIED AREAS? ________ IF SO, TOTAL CFM AIR DELIVERED TO AREA TO
BE HUMIDIFIED ………………………………………………………………………………..…....................
(FOR REFRIGERATION ONLY, WHAT IS DEFROST CYCLE)? ...........................................................
ECONOMIZER CYCLE: IS THE AIR HANDING SYSTEM EQUIPPED WITH MODULATING OUTSIDE AIR
SUPPLY?______ IF SO, WHAT IS MIXED AIR TEMPERATURE MAINTAINED? ____________F.
.............................................................................................................................................................
PROCESS REDUCTION: IS ANY WATER VAPOR BEING DISCHARGED DIRECTLY INTO THE AIR IN THE
AREA TO BE HUMIDIFIED? .... IF SO, HOW MANY POUNDS OF WATER VAPEOR PER HOUR?
.....................................................................................................................................................
IS THE DISCHARGE CONSTANT OR INTERMITTENT? ______ IF INTERMITTENT, WHAT IS THE
SHORTEST TIME PER HOUR IT OPERATES? .........................................................................................
IF APPLICABLE, DOES THE EXHAUST AND MAKE-UP AIR SYSTEM OPERATE ONLY WHEN THIS
WATER VAPOR IS BEING DISCHARGED?............................................................................................
PRODUCT LOAD: DO YOU RECEIVE A HYGROSCOPIC MATERIAL AT ONE MOISTURE CONTENT AND
SHIP AT ANOTHER? _______ . IF SO, WHAT IS THE MOISTURE CONTENT UPON
RECEIPT?_________ %, AT SHIPMENT? __________ %.
WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF POUNDS (DRY WEIGHT) OF PRODUCT PASSING THROUGH THE
AREA PER HOUR? .........................................................................................................
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
PEOPLE REDUCTION: HOW MANY PEOPLE WORK IN THE AREA? …................................................
DO YOU CONSIDER THEM PHYSICALLY ACTIVE?...............................................................................
HOW MANY HOURS DO THEY OCCUPY THE AREA PER DAY?..........................................................
....................................................................................................................................................................
SERVICES AVAILABLE: ELECTRICAL: VOLTS/PHASES/CYCLES ........................................................
MAXIMUM AMPERAGE OF PLANT SERVICE ..........................................................................................
MAXIMUM AMPERAGE IN USE ...............................................................................................................
WATER SUPPLY: MUNICIPAL OR WELL .............................................................................................
PRESSURE AT FLOOR LEVEL ____ HARDNESS IN GRAINS/GAL. ..................................................
OR PPM ____ IS IT RAW____ SOFTENED _____ DEMINERALIZED ................................................
COMPRESSED AIR: IS COMPRESSED AIR AVAILABLE?.____ kPa(Psi) ..............................................
TOTAL HP_____ CAPACITY IN CFM FREE AIR DELIVERY ..................................................................
HOW MUCH OF RATED CAPACITY IS NOW IN USE ..............................................................................
STEAM SUPPLY: BOILER HP _____ HP IN USE......................................................................................
AVAILABLE SUPPLY PRESSURE _____ FUEL USED .............................................................................
Note:
A suitable sketch shall be provided to show details of the area to be humidified.
26
ATTACHMENT 3
DESIGN DATA FOR

SPACE AND / OR PROCESS DEHUMIDIFICATION
PROJECT: ……………………………………………...................................................................
ADDRESS:................................................................................................................................
CITY: ........................................................................................................................................
REQUIRED CONDITIONS: TEMPERA TURE: .....................................................
RELATIVE HUMIDITY: ............................................
DESIGN CONDITIONS:
INSIDE THE SPACE: TEMPERATURE:..................(SUMMER).........(WINTER)
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:...........(SUMMER).........(WINTER)
OUTSIDE SPACE: SUMMER-TEMPERATURE: ...................................
RELATIVE HUMIDITY: ...........................................
WINTER-TEMPERATURE: ........................................
RELATIVE HUMIDITY: ..............................................
1) SIZE OF ROOM: (USE SEPARATE SHEET FOR SKETCH IF NECESSARY)
LENGTH.........................WIDTH………...........HEIGHT ........................................................
2) DESCRIBE DOORS:
NUMBER...............................................SIZE ......................................................................
TYPE.............................................SEALING......................................................................
3) NUMBER OF DOOR OPENINGS PER HOUR:
TOTAL FOR ALL DOORS ....................................................................................................
4) CONSTRUCTION OF ROOM AND HOW IT IS SEALED (WATER BASE, OIL BASE, ALUMINUM
PAINT, PLASTIC, STEEL, ETC.)
A. WALLS (PLASTER, ETC.) …...................………………………………………………………..
PAINT................................................................THICKNESS ...................................................
B. Ceiling (plaster, etc.) ..............................................................................................................
PAINT...........................................................THICKNESS.........................................................
C. FLOOR (WOOD, CONCRETE, ETC.)…………………………………. ...................................
PAINT...............................................................THICKNESS ....................................................
D. THE SPACE TIGHT AGAINST INFILTRATION OF AIR?
...................................................................................................................................................
(to be continued)
27
ATTACHMENT 3 (continued)
5. DESCRIBE WINDOWS:
NUMBER ................................................................SIZE ...................................................................
TYPE .....................................................................SEALING ............................................................
6. MATERIAL TO BE STORED IN ROOM........................................................................................
………………………………………………………………………………...............................................
7. IS ANY MOISTURE GIVEN OFF OR TAKEN UP BY THE PROCESS OF MATERIALS IN THE
ROOM? .......................................................
A. IF SO, MATERIALS MOVED IN AND OUT OF THE ROOM ARE:
1. .......Ibs. IN AND OUT IN .................... HOURS / DAY (WEEK) OR SCRIBE:……
….................................................................................................................................
2. MOISTURE CONTENT OF MATERIALS ENTERING ..........................................
3. MOISTURE CONTENT OF MATERIALS LEAVING ............................................
4. IF MOISTURE IS TO BE REMOVED, WHAT LENGTH OF TIME DOES IT HAVE
TO BE REMOVED IN? …………............................................................................
B. DESCRIBE PRODUCT MOVEMENT:..............................................................................
TUNNELS IN WALLS: NUMBER........................................................................................
LENGTH ............ WIDTH ..................................... HEIGHT ...............................................
C. ANY OTHER MOISTURE LOADS? ................................................................................
8. NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN ROOM CONTINUOUSLY .....................................................................
HOURS PER DAY ...............................................................................................................................
HOW MANY PEOPLE ENTER THE ROOM OCCASIONALLY............................................................
9. IS ANY OUTSIDE AIR BEING BROUGHT IN? ............................................................................
BY WHAT MEANS ...................................... HOW MUCH ................................................................
WHAT TEMPERATURE ............................ RELATIVE HUMIDITY ...................................................
10. STATE AVAILABLE STEAM ........................................ GAS.......................................................
11. ELECTRICAL SUPPLY VOLES / PHASES / CYCLIE: ...............................................................
Note:
A suitable sketch shall be provided to show details of the area to be dehumidified.
28
ATTACHMENT 4
CONTROL APPLICATIONS
TYPICAL PRIMARY SYSTEM WITH 100% OUTSIDE AIR

Fig. 1
TYPICAL PRIMARY AND BOOSTER HUMIDIFICATION WITH 100% OSA

Fig. 2
* Electric Pneumatic Relay. (Continued to Fig. 3 & 4)
29
TYPICAL PRIMARY SYSTEM HUMIDIFICATION WITH RETURN AIR

Fig. 3
TYPICAL SINGLE ZONE HEATING VENTILATING

Fig. 4
* Electric Pneumatic Relay
30
ATTACHMENT 5
TYPICAL PNEUMATIC PIPING FOR AIR-OPERATED HUMIDIFIERS

a) Connect 103.41 kPa (15 psig) air supply to the control valve. This air should be clean
and free of any moisture. A ¼" copper tubing or equivalent is recommended for all air
connections.
b) Install a humidistat as per manufacturer’s instructions. The common practice is to install
in the area controlled or in the return air or exhaust air duct.
c) Interlocks for shutdown should be provided between humidi-fier and fans in case of a
power failure or some other trouble in the system (Fig. B).
d) A high limit duct humidistat, generally set at 90% relative humidity is recommended
about 2 meter downstream of the humidifier. This is to prevent any over saturation of the
duct due to a failure in air conditioning system or malfunctioning of controlling humidistat
(Fig. A).
e) On humidifier systems that are shut down frequently a temperature switch as shown in
Fig. B is available.
This keeps the control valve closed until the humidifier reaches the steam temperature,
thereby eliminating any condensation which could occur when steam is admitted into cold
humidifiers.
TYPICAL STANDARD PNEUMATIC CONTROL HOOK-UP

Fig. A
(Continued to Fig. B)
31
PNEUMATIC CONTROL HOOK-UP WITH SAFETY INTERLOCKS

Fig. B
32
ATTACHMENT 6
DESIGN CRITERIA
Design
Outdoor
Cooling/ Indoor Temperature, °C Relative Room Filtration
Heating Humidity, Ventilation Efficiency,
Building/Area Dry-Bulba Maximum Minimum % Rate, ach* % Pressurization Redundancyb
Steam Turbine Area
Suboperating level 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 30 None None Multiplicity
Above operating floor 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 10 None None Multiplicity
Combustion Turbine Area 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 5 7 None 20 None None Multiplicity
Steam Generator Area
Below burner elevation 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 30 None None Multiplicity
Above operating floor 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 15 None None Multiplicity
Other Non-Air-Conditioned Areas
Shops 1%/99% Design outdoor + 6 18 None 15 None None None
Air-Conditioned Areasc
Control rooms and control Extreme 24 ± 1 22 ± 1 30 to 65 ASHRAE 85 to 90 Positive 100%
equipment rooms Std. 62.1
containing instruments and
electronics
Offices 1%/99% 26 21 30 to 65 ASHRAE ASHRAE Positive None
Std. 62.1 Std. 62.1
Laboratories 1%/99% 26 21 30 to 65 ASHRAE High Positive None
Std. 62.1
Locker rooms and toilets 1%/99% 26 21 None ASHRAE ASHRAE Negative None
Std. 62.1 Std. 62.1
Shops (air-conditioned) 1%/99% 26 18 None ASHRAE None None None
Std. 62.1
Mechanical Equipment
Pumps, large power 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 30 None None Multiplicity
Valve stations, 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 15 None None None
miscellaneous
Elevator machine rooms 0.4%/99.6% 32 7 None None Low Positive None
Fire pump area 0.4%/99.6% NFPA NFPA None NFPA None None None
Std. 20 Std. 20 Std. 20
Diesel generator area 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 30 None None None
Electrical Equipmentc 7
Enclosed transformer 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 60 Low Positive 100%
equipment areas
Critical equipment Extreme Design outdoor + 6 7 None 30 None Positive 100%
Miscellaneous electrical 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 7 None 20 None None Multiplicity
equipment
Water Treatment
Chlorine equipment rooms
When temporarily occupied 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 None None 60 None Negative None
When unoccupied 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 16 None 15 None Negative None
Chemical treatment 0.4%/99.6% Design outdoor + 6 16 None 10 None None None
Battery Rooms 0.4%/99.6% — — None As required None Negative or 50%
for hydrogen neutral
dilution
*Listed numbers are for estimating purposes only. When heat gain data are available, use
Equation (1) [Chapter 21 of ASHREA Handbook(SI) -Application (2011)] to calculate required
ventilation rate.
a
See Chapter 14 of the 2009 ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals for design dry-bulb
temperature data corresponding to given annual cumulative frequency of occurrence and
specific geographic location of plant.
b
Multiplicity indicates that the HVAC system should have multiple units.
c
See ASHRAE research project RP-1104 (White 2003) for heat release values
Note: Further information on Hospital design criteria Refer to chapter 8 of ASHREA
Handbook (SI) -Application (2011).
33
ATTACHMENT 7
HUMIDITY CONTROL SYSTEMS
1. HUMIDIFICATION
1.1 Air Washer

Air washer often used for its sensible cooling capability, it is also known as a direct evaporative
cooler (Figure1.). Whether an inexpensive wetted-pad residential-type unit or a large industrial unit
with an elaborate system of sprays and eliminators, any air washer operates on the adiabatic
cooling principle. That is, the cooling is done by using the sensible heat of the air to evaporate
water. Thus, the air passing through the washer changes conditions along a constant web bulb line,
with the final state being dependent on the initial state and the saturation efficiency of the washer
(generally 70% to 90%). There is no control of humidity but with turn off the water jet pumps and
use a humidity controller, the amount of humidity can be controlled.
EVAPORATIVE COOLING (AIR WASHER)

Fig. 1
PSYCHROMETRIC CHART FOR EVAPORATIVE COOLING

Fig. 2
1.2 Two-Stage Evaporative Cooling
Two-stage evaporative cooling may be used as an alternative to mechanical refrigeration, when
outdoor conditions allow it. This system provides lower dry bulb temperatures and relative
humidities than can be obtained with ordinary evaporative cooling. Figure 3 shows the arrangement
and control of a two-stage evaporative cooling system. Figure 4 is the psychrometric chart of the
cycle. The dashed lines on the chart show a single-stage cycle as in Figure 2.
34
TWO – STAGE EVAPORATIVE COOLING

Fig.3
PSYCHROMETRIC CHART FOR FIGURE 3

Fig. 4
The cooling tower and the precooling coil are the first stage. This sensible cooling reduces both the
wet and the dry bulb temperatures of the air, so that in the second stage a lower dry bulb
temperature may be obtained. The room thermostat will be a two-position type, with two-stage
control optional. The controllability of the system depends on the condition of the outside air.
1.3 Air Washer with Preheat

About the only control that can be applied to the ordinary air washer is to turn the spray water (or
pump) on or off. If a minimum humidity is required, it is sometimes necessary to preheat the air to
the desired wet bulb temperature. Such a control system is shown in Figure 5. The room humidistat
senses low humidity and turns on the spray pump and then opens the preheat coil supply valve. As
room humidity increases, the preheat valve is closed first, then if the increase continues, the sprays
are shut down. Under high outdoor humidity conditions the cooling capacity is limited. Final room
temperature control is provided by reheat coils. The psychrometric chart in Figure 6 shows this
cycle.
35
MINIMUM HUMIDITY; AIR WASHER WITH PREHEAT

Fig. 5

Fig. 6
1.4 Air Washer with Preheat and Refrigeration

An air washer with preheat will not control the upper limits of humidity. To accomplish this two
choices are available, both requiring refrigeration:
1. Heat and/or cool the spray water with a shell and tube heat exchangers (Figure 7). By allowing
the humidistat to control the heat exchanger supply valves it is possible to obtain very accurate
control of the humidity as well as the air temperature leaving the washer. Figure 8 is the
psychrometric chart diagram of this process. Reheat is required because the temperature leaving
the washer is constant and is not a function of the building load.
36
HUMIDITY CONTROL BY HEATING OR COOLING SPRAY WATER

Fig. 7

Fig. 8
2. Add a cooling coil in the air washer, creating a sprayed-coil dehumidifier (Figure 9). This
designation is not incorrect, because at high humidity conditions dehumidification does take place,
but the device also acts as a humidifier if necessary. Because the addition of the coil increases the
saturation efficiency to between 95% and 98%, it is possible to do away with the humidistat and use
a simpler, less expensive dry bulb thermostat (T1) in the air leaving the coil (the so-called dew point
thermostat). This is set to maintain a fixed condition of dry bulb and relative humidity. When the
mixed-air wet bulb temperature is above the required wet bulb temperature of the air leaving the
coil, then refrigeration must be used. Reheat is necessary for final space temperature control. If all
control settings are properly selected, it is possible to maintain very accurate control of the space
temperature and humidity. Figure 10 shows the cycle on a psychrometric chart, assuming cool, low-
humidity outside air. The dew point thermostat senses a decrease in the coil leaving-air temperature
and shuts down the chilled water flow to the coil and then opens the preheat coil valve. Evaporative
cooling is used. As the coil leaving-air temperature increases, the preheat coil valve is gradually
closed. A further increase in the controlled temperature above the thermostat setting will cause the
chilled water valve to open, using refrigeration for cooling. Figure 11 is a psychrometric chart
showing what happens with high temperature outside air. As long as the entering-air wet bulb is
above the dew point thermostat setting, chilled water will be required, and the coil leaving-air
temperature will be maintained by varying the flow of chilled water through the coil. Direct
expansion may be used instead of chilled water.
37
HUMIDITY CONTROL, SPRAYED COIL AND PREHEAT

Fig. 9
PSYCHROMETRIC CHART FOR FIGURE 9 (WINTER)

Fig. 10
PSYCHROMETRIC CHART FOR FIGURE 9 (SUMMER)

Fig. 11
38
1.5 Air Washer with Mixed Air and Refrigeration

Mixed air can be used rather than 100% outside air if the control system is altered as shown in
Figures 12 and 13. As long as the outside air wet bulb temperature is below the coil leaving-air set
point of T1, the desired condition can be maintained by adjusting the mixing dampers to obtain a
mixture that falls on the coil leaving-air wet bulb line, and using the evaporative cooling effect of the
sprayed coil. When the outside air damper is fully open and the coil leaving-air temperature
increases above the set point of T1, then refrigeration must be used, either chilled water as shown
or direct expansion. Again, reheat is required for space temperature control.
All of these systems using open sprays require chemical treatment of the spray water to minimize
solids deposition. The systems with finned coils pose a severe maintenance problem due to
deposition. The only satisfactory solution is to use demineralized water in the spray system.
Sprayed coils may not be allowed under some codes because of the potential for bacterial
contamination.
HUMIDITY CONTROL; SPRAYED COOLING COIL WITH MIXED AIR

Fig. 12

Fig. 13
1.6 Steam Humidifiers

Steam humidifiers are often used because of their simplicity. A piping manifold with small orifices is
provided in the air duct or plenum (Figure 14). The steam supply valve is controlled by a space or
duct humidistat. Avoid the use of steam that has been treated with toxic chemicals. Almost any
humidity ratio, up to saturation, can be obtained in the supply air stream. If a space humidistat is
used a duct high-limit humidistat should be provided to avoid condensation in the duct.
39
STEAM GRID HUMIDIFIER

Fig. 14
1.7 Pan Humidifiers

Evaporative pan humidifiers vary in capability and controllability. The old-fashioned evaporator pan
found in many residential warm-air heating systems is not very efficient, and lacks any kind of
control. The addition of a heater, of immersion or radiant type, improves efficiency and allows a
limited amount of control. Even with heaters, however, this type of humidifier will not usually provide
space relative humidity of over 40%.
1.8 Atomizer Humidifiers

Slinger or atomizer humidifiers may be controlled on-off by a humidistat or manually. Again, space
relative humidity will seldom exceed 40%. During "off' periods the lime deposits left from the water
evaporation may be entrained in the air stream as dust. When evaporative or atomizer humidifiers
are used, the water supply should be distilled or deionized. Mineral deposits from evaporation are a
serious maintenance problem. "Rental" deionizers are very satisfactory for small installations.
2. DEHUMIDIFICATION
2.1 Chemical Dehumidifiers

Chemical dehumidifiers use a chemical adsorbent, usually with provision for continuous
regeneration (drying) to avoid system shutdown. One form of dehumidifier (Figure 15) uses a wheel
containing silica gel that revolves first through the conditioned air stream, absorbing moisture, and
then through a regenerative air stream of heated outside air that dries the gel. In the process, heat
is transferred to the conditioned air and recooling is necessary. The dehumidification efficiency is
largely a function of the regenerative air stream temperature. Figure 16 shows the control system.
The space humidistat controls the heating coil in the regenerative air stream. Final control of space
temperature is accomplished by the room thermostat and the recooling coil. Very low humidities
may be obtained in this way.
CHEMICAL DEHUMIDIFIER
Fig. 15
40
CONTROL OF CHEMICAL DEHUMIDIFIER

Fig. 16
Another type of system uses a water-absorbing liquid chemical solution that is sprayed over a
cooling coil in the conditioned air stream, thus absorbing moisture from the air. A portion of the
solution is continuously pumped to a regenerator where it is sprayed over heating coils and gives up
moisture to a scavenger air stream that carries the moisture outside. Control of the specific humidity
of the leaving conditioned air is accomplished by controlling the temperature of the solution.
Because this is a patented, proprietary system, the control system recommended by the
manufacturer should be used.
2.2 Dehumidifying by Refrigeration

Low temperature cooling coils may also be used to reduce humidity to low values. Because coil
surface temperatures may be below freezing, with ice formation resulting, special DX coils with wide
fin spacing must be used, and provision must be made for defrosting by hot gas, electric heat or
warm air. This approach tends to be inefficient at very low humidities and requires intermittent
shutdown for defrosting, or parallel coils so that one may operate while the other is being defrosted.
Reheat is necessary for control of space temperature. Because space humidity is largely a function
of the coil temperature, fairly good control may be achieved through humidistat control of a variable
back-pressure valve (Figure 17). The selective relay (R) allows the room thermostat to operate the
cooling coil at minimum capacity when the humidistat is satisfied.
DEHUMIDIFYING WITH LOW TEMPERATURE COOLING UNIT

Fig. 17
Reference:
Control Systems For Heating, Ventilating, And Air Conditioning, Sixth Edition, By Roger W. Haines
& Douglas C. Hittle, Solar Energy Applications Laboratory Colorado State University.
41

Engineering Standard: IPS-E-AR-130

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IPS-E-AR-130

HUMIDIFICATION AND DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM

This standard specification is reviewed and

Standards and Research department

No.17, Street14, North kheradmand

VENDOR AND SUPPLIER:

CONTENTS: PAGE No.

PART 1 : GENERAL ENGINEERING

5. AIR CONDITIONING AND HUMIDITY CONCEPTS ...................................................................... 8

PART 2 : HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM

7. HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM ......................................................................................................... 11

PART 3 : DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM

13. DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM .................................................................................................. 16

PART 4 : CONTROL SYSTEM FOR HUMIDIFICATION AND DEHUMIDIFICATION ................. 21

16. CONTROL SYSTEM ................................................................................................................... 21

Part 1 : General Engineering

Part 2 : Humidification system

Part 3 : Dehumidification system

Part 4 : Control system for humidification and dehumidification

ASHRAE (AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEATING REFRIGERATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

IPS (IRANIAN PETROLEUM STANDARD)

3. DEFINITIONS & TERMINOLOGY

a) Absolute Humidity: Is the weight of moisture content in a given sample of air,

l) Hygrometer: Instrument responsive to humidity conditions (usually relative humidity) of

p) Mist: Constitutes liquid water composed of water droplets in suspension.

r) Permeability: Water vapor permeability is a property of a substance which permits

u) Sorbent: A material which extracts one or more substances present in an atmosphere or

5. AIR CONDITIONING AND HUMIDITY CONCEPTS

5.1 Air Conditioning Concepts

5.2 Humidity Concepts

5.2.2 Humidity level

OPTIMUM RELATIVE HUMIDITY RANGES FOR HEALTH (DECREASE IN BAR WIDTH

5.3 Dehumidification Concepts

6. TECHNOLOGY OF HUMIDITY CONTROL

6.1 Air Conditioning and Humidity Control

6.2 Air and Relative Humidity

6.3 Moisture Flow Between Air and Materials

6.4 Sensible and Latent Heating and Cooling

7.2 The Need for Humidification

7.3 Vapor Barrier and Insulation

8.1 Water Spray Injection

- Total heat remains constant.

8.2 Steam Injection

9.4 Electrode Steam Humidifiers

9.5 Steam Grid Humidifiers

9.6 Jacketed Dry-Steam Humidifiers

9.7 Air or Fan-powered Electric Humidifiers

10. HUMIDIFIER SELECTION

11. LOAD CALCULATION FOR HUMIDIFICATION

11.1 Computation Method

a) For ventilation systems having natural infiltration,

b) For mechanical ventilation systems having a fixed quantity of outside air,

c) For mechanical systems having a variable quantity of outside air,

H = humidification load, lb of water/h

11.2 Load Calculation Summary

11.2.1 Factors to consider

11.2.1.1 Temperature and humidity required

11.2.1.2 Temperature and humidity available

11.2.1.3 Incoming air volume