To understand the principle of energy recovery it is necessary to recognise the relationship between Sensible Heat, Latent Heat and Enthalpy.
The energy in our air comprises:
- Sensible Heat – the heat we can feel and can be measured with a thermometer.
- Latent Heat – this is the heat contained in the airborne moisture. For example, it is the energy absorbed when water is evaporated and stored in the resultant steam. A thermometer cannot measure latent heat. The higher the room humidity, the greater the latent heat present.
- Enthalpy is the total of both the sensible and latent heat, that is, the total heat contained in air.
Armcor Air Solutions has developed various specialist heat exchange media to create the ultimate energy recovery ventilation system for your project.
The media for effective heat exchange needs to be carefully selected to provide the required outcomes.
Disclaimer: The data and information contained in Armcor Air Solution technical specification sheets are representative of expected performance. They are derived from aggregated specifications of the individual components used in the equipment and not from verified laboratory testing. This should only be used for evaluating your specific application and clients have the sole responsibility of satisfying themselves that the goods or services are suitable for any specific use.
Quick Guide to Selection of Heat Recovery Media in ERV
| Application | Summer/Winter | Enthalpy | Sensible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toilet Exhaust | Summer | No | Yes- must maintain absolute separation of air streams |
| Toilet Exhaust | Winter | No | Yes- must maintain absolute separation of air streams |
| Tropical Temp (High RH) | Summer | Yes – will remove moisture from the incoming air | No |
| Tropical Temp (High RH) | Winter | Yes - will remove moisture from the incoming air | Yes - will not remove moisture from the incoming air |
| Moderate Temp (Moderate RH) | Summer | Yes – higher energy (enthalpy) recovery | Yes – will operate effectively |
| Moderate Temp (Moderate RH) | Winter | Yes – higher energy (enthalpy) recovery | Yes – will operate effectively |
| Low Temp (Low RH) | Summer | No | Yes – no need to remove moisture from the incoming air |
| Low Temp (Low RH) | Winter | No – May condensate | Yes – no need to remove moisture from the incoming air |
Sensible Heat Exchange Media VS Enthalpy Heat Exchange Media
| Sensible Heat Exchange Media | Enthalpy Heat Exchange Media |
|---|---|
| Sensible Heat Exchange Media is used for energy recovery where there must be an absolute separation of the air in applications such as: bathroom/toilet exhaust, indoor swimming pool enclosures which require the introduction of fresh air to reduce the indoor humidity levels. | Enthalpy Heat Exchanger Media allow both sensible and latent heat energy to be recovered. |
| Polypropylene sensible media has excellent properties that withstand condensation and corrosive air, e.g. chlorine. | This design features a specially constructed capillary surface that traps moisture. |
| The correct heat exchange media must be specific to the application to enable the correct outcome. | This ensures that a proportion of the humidity in the air leaving a ventilated room is trapped and transferred back into the room with the supply air allowing the room humidity level to be maintained. |
