Feature
in humid conditions . Each material has an “ equilibrium relative humidity ” at which the material is at balance with the environment . Controlling the relative humidity to this equilibrium level prevents loss or moisture absorption as temperature and ambient air moisture content changes . Failing to do so can be hugely problematic in terms of productivity , quality and profitability .
For instance , at printing works the RH is essential to their paper handling . Paper is supplied to printers with a specified water content . If this dries then the paper can change dimension and curl , giving huge problems as it is fed through the printing machines .
People are also hygroscopic ! As well as controlling humidity in working environments , hospitals use humidifiers in operating theatres to prevent moisture being drawn from any body tissue exposed during operations . This can cause premature drying and promote the formation of a scab from coagulated blood . The humidity levels in maternity and obstetric departments should always be maintained as babies are particularly sensitive to a dry atmosphere . There is a need for high humidity in burn centres to prevent drying and assist healing .
Tea , textiles , tobacco and crops in long term cold storage will all lose moisture in dry environments giving problems with quality and weight loss and so directly affecting the bottom line profitability of the customer . Pharmaceutical products must be manufactured in carefully controlled environments to ensure quality , repeatability and conformance with the approved conditions for the particular product .
Museums and art galleries should be kept at stable temperature and humidity levels to prevent damage to priceless artifacts .
Data centres or server rooms should be suitably controlled conditions . Less than 40 % RH , there would be the risk of short circuiting due to static charge ; above 65 % and it would increase the risk of corrosive conditions on the electronics . The applications for humidifiers are almost endless !
Humidair cc
TO GO WITH FEATURE
“ Also useful is where there ’ s a refrigeration plant , heat pump or solar energy whereby excess energy like hot water can be brought in as pre heat , with the pre heat allowed into any evaporative method .”
RACA Journal I March 2023 27