Performance analysis of a combined desiccant/absorption air-conditioning system

In this paper the combination of an air desiccant system combined with an a bsorption system to develop a triple-effect system is analyzed. The advanta ge of the combination is to hue off-the-shelf components. A thermodynamic d esign is performed to document the performance potential of a combined syst em. Multiple airflow arrangements are analyzed to determine optimum perform ance. The absorption system would provide heat removal capabilities (coolan t effect) and the necessary regeneration energy required to regenerate the desiccant. The desiccant system would provide dehumidification capabilities . Four cases were analyzed to determine the optimum operating conditions of t he desiccant/absorption system. The model predicted that the most efficient use of the system Mould result rising outdoor air as the process air and r eturn air for the regeneration. The four cases illustrated that the combine d system needs to be integrated with the control scheme of the overall HVAC system to ensure operation near its optimum efficiency. This paper illustr ates that a very attractive potential for the combination of these two syst ems exists which can be assembled with off-the-shelf components.