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Abstract
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In this work, a mathematical model was made for a Hybrid Membrane-Based Air Conditioning System to evaluate the performance of the proposed system. The hybrid system consisted of a cross-flow membrane air dehumidifier unit and a membrane contactor unit as humidifier. The model was further validated using simulation and experimental data from the literature. The effects of the parameters such as dehumidifier stage cut, pressure ratio and humidifier geometry were studied. Then, the performance of the system was evaluated in terms of sensible, latent and total cooling capacity and latent heat ratio. The hybrid system produced fresh air with minimum temperature of 13.5 °C and humidity ratio below 12 g/kg providing a thermal comfort condition for human activities. Also, the results showed that the maximum total cooling capacity was 3.3 kW when the dehumidifier pressure ratio was 20, and LHR of the hybrid system was in the range 0.35–0.63. The results also showed that the membrane air-conditioner had a low energy consumption, saving energy up to 66% in comparison to the conventional air-conditioners. The proposed membrane air-conditioner is capable to operate in a wide range of humidity in the Persian Gulf region, while maintaining the thermal comfort conditions.
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