Steam Distribution – Selecting the RIGHT distributor
O’Dell has been representing Nortec humidifiers for over 20 years! There have been great advancements in not only steam generation technology, but, the science of steam distribution. With all the advancements in steam distribution, reducing absorption distances from feet to inches, the careful selection of distribution technology has been abandoned. Selecting a short absorptoin manifold has become the standard, instead of the exception. This often results in a system that underperforms and operates inefficiently.
I want to look at the process of selecting a steam distribution technology and the factors that should influence this decision. First, what factors should be considered when selecting a distribution technology?
- Humidification load (lbs/hr)
- Mixed air conditions at steam distributor (DB/WB)
- Airflow (CFM)
- Distance from distributor to an obstruction (coil, bend, elbow, etc.)
With details from items 1-3 above, O’Dell is able to acurately calculate the steam absorption distance. Using the details provided in item 4, we can provide an economical and effective distribution method. We support the use of standard distributors (i.e. ASD, BSD & CSD) wherever possible and only recommend short absorption manifolds (SAMe) where necessary. We don’t actively avoid short absorptoin manifolds, Nortec has the best SAMe distributor available, but believe in using the right technology for the application.
When SAMe distributors are required, we will ALWAYS recommend insulating the manifold. Nortec uses an airgap insulation method, which is extremely effective in delivering the desired result of improved efficiency. Neglecting isulation on a SAMe distributor can lead to increased condensate production and heat gain. This is due to the higher surface area of exposed distributor vs. the standard distribution method. If you’re not careful, you can turn your humidifier into a steam coil … we want to avoid that!!!
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