Water- and energy-efficient humidity system make textile and non-woven plants more productive
For these two sectors, controlling humidity levels and temperature are a must for higher-quality products and improved machine performance. They rely on humidification systems to boost productivity and reduce production downtime. Until now, the market has consisted of three main technologies for industrial humidification. However, they use up considerable amounts of energy and water.
Lowering costs and environmental impact
The EU-funded IHS project developed a new solution that reduces energy and water consumption while helping companies boost their profits. The induction humidification system can save up to 80 % of the energy requirement and 65 % in water consumption. It can also reduce µm (inhalable particles) by 85 % and CO2 emissions by 80 %. “By maintaining optimal humidity levels, the system is at least four times more efficient and effective than any other industrial humidifier currently on the market,” comments coordinator Amedeo Filisetti. “It will provide a return on investment in less than 24 months.” On-site tests at factories generated excellent outcomes. The system required an average of 1 kWh to humidify a room, while top existing systems need at least 4 kWh. It was also able to supply 100 % processed water to air, in contrast to other systems that demand more than double to achieve the same result. “The innovation has an unrivalled humidification and cooling capacity and designed with an eye to the most stringent hygiene requirements,” notes Filisetti. It is the only humidification system for textiles and non-wovens that complies with VDI 6022 standards. This means its operation ensures that the treated air does not contain pathogenic spores or dangerous substances, resulting in a better indoor environment, optimal well being and performance. The system has been engineered for both new and retrofit installations. The induction humidification system has several other benefits. These include eliminating the possible spread of bacteria and mucilage, preventing corrosion of components, eliminating any risk of condensation and completely recovering all endogenous heat produced in a room, such as by motors and lighting. In July 2019, the system was awarded the Solar Impulse Efficient Solution Label by the Solar Impulse Foundation. The label highlights solutions worldwide that are clean, profitable and have a positive impact on quality of life. It conforms to a European standard for performance features needed by filters necessary to clean air that will be circulated again. The system is also in line with a European directive that defines minimal requirements for energy-related products.
Strengthening market position
Project partners initially filed a patent in Italy. Intellectual property rights have since been extended to all European countries, as well as Argentina, Brazil, Canada, India, Mexico and the United States. “These exclusive rights will help us to establish ourselves in the market as the pre-eminent player,” concludes Filisetti. “Business partners, investors and shareholders should perceive patent portfolios as a demonstration of our high level of expertise, specialisation and technological capacity that will all prove useful in raising funds and making business connections.”
Keywords
IHS, water, energy, humidification, humidity, textile, non-woven, air, induction humidification system
