Provides fast and accurate analysis of benefits of supplementing standard air-conditioning systems with desiccant-based air-treatment equipment. DESICALC estimates the value of desiccant systems, their operating cost, and humidity control benefits. It provides typical utility rates for 16 geographical locations and weather data for 236 U.S. cities. A simple Windows interface allows comparing baseline and desiccant dehumidification HVAC equipment options. The DESICALC program offers unique combination of a graphical interface with the computational sophistication of DOE-2.1E to guide a user in the selection of the most economically viable air-conditioning equipment configuration for comfort control.
Keywords
desiccant system, air-conditioning, system design, energy analysis, dehumidification, desiccant-based air treatment
Validation/Testing
N/A
Expertise Required
General knowledge of air-conditioning systems with desiccant-based air treatment equipment, and energy analysis. Knowledge of HVAC system application is helpful. No computer programming experience is required.
Users
Over 100 world wide (Italian and Hong Kong versions available).
Audience
HVAC designers and system operators, facility energy managers, utility marketing professionals, desiccant equipment marketing professionals.
Input
Project building information, project location, and electric and gas utility costs information. The energy pricing input options allow the user to choose between the time of use (TOU) and the stepped rate structure and its cutoff type, the rate season, the demanded charges and the application of cooling rates and ratchet charges, as well as specific monthly charges, energy cost adjustments and taxes.
Output
Two output reports are generated by DESICALC, short and detailed. The short report provides a summary of the completed calculations and a brief description of the analyzed case, based on the program default and/or the user custom input data. The detailed report provides data on the monthly heating and cooling loads as well as the monthly energy consumption and costs.
Computer Platform
PC with CD-ROM drive operating in 32-bit Windows environment (95, 98, NT, XP, and 2000).
Programming Language
Visual Basic with DOE-2.1E macros and templates.
Strengths
Desiccant dehumidification lowers energy costs, especially in buildings with refrigerating processes, and allows more cost-effective compliance with ASHRAE 62-1989 based ventilation codes.
Weaknesses
Requires general knowledge of air-conditioning systems with desiccant-based air treatment equipment, and energy analysis to fully utilize program potential.
Contact
Availability
The cost of DESICALC software is $295.00 plus shipping and handling. To order the software, call 630-406-5900, fax your order to 630 406 5995, or send email.
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