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Numerical Optimization of basic and finned Counter-Flow Dehumidifier with adiabatic and convective boundary conditions coupled with Thermo-Electric Cooler (TEC)
Adem H. Ibrahim
Abstract:
A counter-flow dehumidifier with and without uniform rectangular fins was connected to a generic thermoelectric cooler to optimize for optimum water extraction and air dehumidification. To qualitatively analyze the humidifier’s performance, adiabatic and convective boundary conditions on the fins’ tips were implemented. Temperature of the cold face of the thermo couple was kept lower than that of ambient temperature of air so that temperature gradient is formed on the cold side. In this way the incoming air saturates and condenses on the cold surface of the thermoelectric cooler. The heat (Q_L) at temperature T_SC, accumulated on the cold side is pumped to the hot side at temperature T_SH. The heat, Q_H, on the hot side must be continuously expelled by the electric power provide by the thermoelectric couple through Peltier effect. To accomplish this, a counter flow cool air is fed to the hot face of the thermoelectric cell