The modern air-conditioning system must aim for high quality performance with reduced energy costs, reduced capital costs, and reduced space requirements. In previous papers, a design solution that achieves this goal for peak load conditions through use of low face velocities was presented. The reductions in energy costs associated with the low face velocity (LFV) system apply, to varying degrees, over the full range of climates, but are most significant in humid and tropical climates. In this paper, we recognize that air-conditioning systems mostly operate at part load.

Our objective is to present a new method of air conditioning that extends the design aims listed above to give optimum performance over the total load range. The design solution presented has evolved from a decade of studies utilizing a unique research system. The fluid flow, heat and mass transfer properties, and the thermodynamic characteristics of compact heat exchangers in the form of alr-conditioning dehumidifiers have been studied with scientific precision over the whole range of climates in which airconditioning systems are used.

Units: Dual