Condensing dryers with enhanced dehumidification using surface tension elements

Condensing dryers are an emerging technology that reduces the net energy required for residential clothes drying. To further improve the efficiency of such devices, it is proposed that a surface tension element (STE) replace the air-to-air plate heat exchanger condensing surface. The STE is configured such that it enhances the dehumidification of the humid air stream and reduces the overall energy consumption of the dryer system. Analytical predictions for STE vapor removal are presented. Based on the analytical model, a prototype STE has been constructed and implemented into a condensing dryer system. The average IEC efficiency was measured to be 0.616 kW h/kg dry laundry with the STE, as compared to the commercially available dryer which was measured to be 0.643 kW h/kg. This decrease in per load energy use improves the IEC efficiency rating from a Class C to a Class B. Suggestions are made for other systematic improvements.