Performance of desiccant dehumidification with hydronic radiant cooling system in hot humid climates

Experimental investigations were carried out to determine the performance of a rotating desiccant wheel with chilled ceiling panels for humid climates in Malaysia. Dehumidification capacity was in the range of 0.89–2.673 kg/h. Relative humidity reduction to 40% with high dehumidification capacity of 2.673 kg/h was achieved within 10 min with air flow rate of 243 kg/h. Chilled ceiling surface temperature between 14 and 18 °C was achieved by varying the chilled water inlet temperature from 6 °C to 10 °C at steady state. Condensation was absent on the chilled ceiling surface panels below 70% relative humidity. Thermal comfort room temperature for this investigation was 24–24.5 °C for chilled ceiling height of 2 m.

► Hydronic radiant cooling is an alternative to conventional air-conditioning system.
► Condensation is the great challenge for chilled ceiling panels in hot humid climate.
► Desiccant dehumidifier reduces energy consumption and improves indoor air quality.
► Reactivation is the main limitation of desiccant dehumidification system.
► Relative humidity at 50% and 60%, allows chilled ceiling to be in save operation.