FormFlex HX – Development of a new generation of enthalpy heat exchangers based on a dimensionally stable membrane material

Description

Heat exchangers are key components for the energy-efficient operation of buildings, as they reduce heat loss during air exchange. While conventional systems primarily transfer sensible heat, enthalpy heat exchangers (EWT) also enable the exchange of latent heat in the form of water vapor. This allows for the regulation of both temperature and humidity, contributing to an improved indoor climate.

Current EWT designs are often based on membranes that are permeable to water vapor but tend to deform even when there are only small pressure differences between the air streams. This characteristic requires the use of additional support structures, which results in increased pressure loss and reduced overall efficiency. These challenges limit the widespread adoption and market penetration of such systems. A novel, dimensionally stable membrane technology opens up new possibilities in this area. It allows for the design of EWTs without additional support structures while simultaneously providing the flexibility to design the membrane geometry in three dimensions. This enables a holistic optimization of temperature and moisture transfer while reducing pressure loss.

As part of a development project, a new generation of enthalpy heat exchangers is to be developed based on this approach. The project will combine industrial manufacturing expertise with fluid dynamics modeling to further develop and validate the technology in a targeted manner. The underlying technology is currently at an advanced stage of development and is to be brought to the point of application readiness. Overall, this approach has the potential to overcome existing system limitations and provide sustainable support for the further development of energy-efficient building technology.

Key data