The effect of a heat pipe heat exchanger (HPHX) on air conditioning performance was evaluated through a combination of a detailed HPHX thermal node model and a model for the air conditioning system implemented through performance maps. Significant increases in moisture-removal capacity and efficiency through the use of this technology were observed. The redesign of conventional evaporator produced a nominal reduction in sensible heat ratio through the reduction of sensible capacity but did not increase latent capacity or moisture-removal efficiency. This suggested that the use of an HPHX offers significant improvements in moisture control and overall efficiency when compared to the conventional practice of using a specially designed cooling coil in combination with reheat.

KEYWORDS: heat pipes, heat exchangers, dehumidifying, air conditioning, performance, calculating, run around coils, relative humidity