Test Protocol

To test the Alter-Air cooler at various temperatures and humidity levels, the company created an ambient air simulator. The heat pump (1) warms air to designated levels (can reach 115 degrees) and blows the heated air through a humidifier (2) which adds humidity (at levels we designate and control) to the air.

The moist and heated air is mixed in the mixing chamber (3) and becomes simulated ambient air. This air is then routed directly into the test chamber (5) which insures that the test chamber is warm and humid. Inside temperatures and humidity levels are read from gauges located outside the test chamber.

When the test chamber reaches ambient air conditions, the air from the mixing chamber is then presented to the Alter-Air cooling system (ACE)  (4) which is then turned on. The air for that test (designated temperature and humidity level) is drawn into the cooling system.

The air cooled by the system is then blown into the test chamber (5)

Air in the test chamber is returned to the Alter-Air cooling system by the return air duct (6)

Exhaust air, 15 t0 25 degrees below ambient air, is exhausted through the exhaust air duct (7)

Measurement Points (Reading the Test)

The temperature and relative humidity (RH) of the air entering the mixing chamber is established at the start of each test. Gauges are set at the entry port of the Alter-Air cooling system to ensure that these remain constant through out the test.

The temperature and RH of the air leaving the cooling system and entering the test chamber are noted to determine the effectiveness of the cooling system.

The temperature and the RH of the test chamber are read at ten minute intervals to determine the rate at which the test chamber is cooled. The temperature of the return air is also read at ten minute intervals, as is the temperature and RH of the exhaust air.

At the end of an hour the test is deemed complete and final readings are taken. The test also measures the water and power consumption during the test.