Meeting NHL Standards for Large Spectator Ice Arenas (continued)  
     
 

Desiccant Combination System

 
     
  Desiccant Combination System  
 

Energy Usage:
DH Precooling 3,737,000 BTUH 311 Nominal Tons
AHU Post Cooling 2,786,000 BTUH 232 Nominal Tons
Total 543 Actual Tons

Desiccant Gas Reactivation 2,113,000 BTUH at 99.5 % Efficiency

 
     
   
     
 

Desiccant Combination System
By comparing the two systems it becomes apparent the ARID-Ice by CDI desiccant system can maintain a lower humidity level while using less energy. Because the capacity is based on a fully occupied arena the pre-game condition of 65°F at 35 % RH (32 Grains/Lb) is within the part load capability of the equipment requiring only one or two of the quads to operate in a dehumidification mode. With the ability to limit outdoor air with partial spectator loading the capacity of the desiccants can easily be modulated to meet the exact requirements of the arena.

It is also apparent that additional pumping HP will be used for the low temperature refrigeration. Designing for a 33°F leaving air temperature with 32°F chilled water requires special consideration. The chillers need to be de-rated to provide the colder than standard fluid temperatures. Pumping horsepower will rise with the small differential. A 33°F leaving air temperature form the cooling coil is impractical for continuous application. Frost or ice on a cooling coil will reduce air flow and cooling performance.

Utilizing the desiccant dehumidifier we can use standard temperature water (42°F to 45°F) with no glycol required in most southern applications. The humidity level can also be easily modulated by a simple set point adjustment for different events using a face and bypass capacity control on the active desiccant rotor section. The main savings come from eliminating approximately 260 Tons per Quad for a total of 904 tons. This coupled with the high pumping capacity for close the close approach cooling air / inlet chilled water, provides significant additional savings. CDI has provided desiccant dehumidification solutions for over 400 recreational and spectator arenas through North America. We continue to apply active desiccant dehumidification equipment for this and many other industrial projects.

Todd Bradley
Desiccant Dehumidifier Application Specialist
Controlled DH

  Enhanced silica gel desiccant dehumidification rotor