How does the total heat exchange membrane work?

The total heat exchange membrane mentioned here is also called an enthalpy exchange membrane. It is also called a special membrane for energy recovery ventilator (ERV). We are also accustomed to calling it a fresh air system. This is an air-to-air heat exchanger. A special membrane material that not only transfers heat between the incoming and outgoing airflow, but also transfers moisture and has the function of regulating humidity. Compared with traditional heat exchangers that only transfer heat, this type of membrane is used The fresh air system has more advantages.

Total heat exchange membranes are typically made from materials such as polymer fibers or flat sheets. These membranes are selectively permeable, a property that allows the transfer of certain components (such as heat and moisture) while limiting the transfer of others (such as contamination). material or gas).

A general overview of the working principle of the total heat exchange membrane includes the following three aspects:

Isolated flow of air. In a ventilation system, there are usually two independent air flows, one that brings fresh outdoor air into the building (supply flow) and the other that takes stale indoor air out of the building (exhaust flow). ), the two airflows will not directly mix with each other when passing through the system. The exchange membrane selectively permeates and isolates the two airflows, effectively preventing the mixing of exhaust gas and fresh air and avoiding cross-contamination.

The transfer of heat, when the two airflows pass through the fresh air system, are separated by a total heat exchange membrane, forming a channel for each airflow to flow through. The heat from the warmer airflow naturally diffuses through the membrane barrier to heat the cooler airflow. airflow, thereby reducing the energy required to heat or cool the incoming fresh air, saving thermal energy input, and the heat in the exhaust gas is captured and used to pretreat the incoming fresh air, reducing the waste of heat. This is an approach that kills two birds with one stone .

Moisture transfer between membranes, the unique feature of total heat exchange membranes is their ability to transfer moisture and heat. These membranes are made of materials that allow water vapor to pass through while blocking liquid water and air particles. This means that if the fresh air coming in from outside is cooler and drier than the stale air exiting the room, some heat will be transferred. Humidity is also transferred from the exhaust stream to the supply stream; similarly, in humid climates where humidity control is important, a full heat exchange membrane can also transfer moisture from the incoming air to the exhaust air, thereby reducing the need for additional dehumidification or Humidification equipment needs, both of these aspects play a role in balancing humidity and can protect the internal environment and make it more comfortable.

The production technology of full heat exchange membranes is constantly upgrading. Different types of fresh air systems may use different membrane configurations or materials. The specific design and characteristics of the membrane will vary according to the application, climate conditions and performance requirements of the system, such as permeability, Surface area, efficiency, selectivity for special particles, etc. At the same time, it is also important to take into account the different industries used and which aspect the main function is focused on, which is very important for membrane selection.