Use of Dehumidification Air Handling Units in Olympic Swimming Pools and Their Importance
Olympic swimming pools are enclosed spaces where a high amount of evaporation occurs. This vapor can condense inside the building, causing damage to structural elements and creating an environment conducive to mold and mildew, which threaten user health. Therefore, the use of air handling units with dehumidification capabilities is vital.
Functions of Dehumidification Units:
- Improving Indoor Air Quality: Removing chlorine vapor and excess humidity produced during swimming creates a healthy and comfortable environment for users.
- Preventing Condensation: Water droplets forming on ceilings and glass surfaces can damage the structure. Dehumidification systems minimize this risk.
- Energy Efficiency: Modern air handling units with integrated heat recovery systems dry the pool air while reducing energy consumption.
- Structural Protection: Controlling humidity protects metal and reinforced concrete surfaces from corrosion and deterioration.
Essential Features:
Air handling units for Olympic pools should have high dehumidification capacity, condensation control, durable materials resistant to corrosion, and heat recovery systems such as plate or rotary exchangers. Additionally, using F7 and F9 class filters ensures maximum air quality.
Practical Considerations:
1. Air Ducts for Olympic Pools
Material Selection:
- Stainless Steel (AISI 316L or higher):
Offers maximum resistance to chlorine, salt, and high humidity—considered the most reliable for Olympic pools. - FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) Ducts:
Corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and durable; preferred for large air volumes. - PVC Coated Galvanized Steel (Economical Option):
Suitable for smaller-scale Olympic pools but requires regular maintenance.
Critical Duct Design Rules:
- Air velocity: 4-6 m/s (higher due to larger volumes compared to residential pools)
- Insulation: Double-layer vapor barrier using glass wool or elastomeric foam
- Drainage: Ducts must have slope for condensate removal
2. Key Points for Olympic Pool Systems
a) Design Stage
- Air exchange rate: 8-12 air changes per hour (per FINA standards)
- Evaporation formula: W=A×(Pw−Pa)×(0.089+0.0782×V)W = A \times (P_w – P_a) \times (0.089 + 0.0782 \times V)W=A×(Pw−Pa)×(0.089+0.0782×V) Where:
- AAA = pool surface area (m²)
- VVV = air velocity (m/s)
- PwP_wPw = vapor pressure at water surface
- PaP_aPa = vapor pressure of ambient air
- 100% Fresh Air Requirement:
To prevent CO₂ and chloramine accumulation and ensure athlete health
b) System Selection
- Heat Recovery Units:
Use enthalpy wheels or plate heat exchangers to maximize energy efficiency - Adsorption (Desiccant) Dehumidification:
Preferred for large pools requiring very low dew points (<10°C)
c) Installation and Maintenance
- Anti-Corrosion Measures:
Use epoxy coatings or stainless steel fasteners for ducts and components - Automation:
Continuous monitoring of humidity, temperature, and air quality to optimize HVAC performance
Keywords
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