Modelling and Optimization of a Desiccant Cooling System for Industrial Applications in Dubai

The study examines the modelling and optimization of solar-assisted desiccant cooling systems (SADCS) specifically designed for industrial applications in Dubai. Four system configurations were evaluated under Dubai's extreme climate using TRNSYS 18 simulation software: classic ventilation, variable percentage recirculation, ventilation with a sensible heat exchanger that utilizes exhaust air to preheat the feed of the auxiliary heating air, and recirculation with a sensible heat exchanger that also utilizes exhaust air for preheating the auxiliary heating air feed. A parametric study comprising 60 simulation cases was performed, examining variations in desiccant wheel effectiveness, airflow rates (3–5 ACH), regeneration temperatures (50–80 °C), and supply air mixing ratios of (0–100%). The goal was to achieve thermal comfort (T₅ ≤ 25 °C, RH₅ ≤ 68%) while minimizing energy usage and emissions. A parametric investigation was performed by adjusting desiccant wheel effectiveness, air flow rates (3-5 ACH), regeneration temperatures (50-80 °C), and fresh air mixing ratios (0-100%). The optimal configuration was determined to be the Recirculation Cycle with Sensible Heat Recovery, functioning at 50% fresh air ratio, a regeneration temperature of 50 °C, a supply flow rate of 3 ACH, and a high-performance desiccant wheel with (εF1 = 0.05, εF2 = 0.95). The configuration achieved a suitable mix of comfort and energy economy. It achieved comfort Zone A coverage of 70.0%, Zone B of 78.14%, and Zone C of 86.52% while utilizing just 1.39 MWh/year. While Case 3.0 at 70 °C provided somewhat more comfort coverage, Case 4.0 was chosen for its energy efficiency and Zone D compliance. . The SADCS demonstrates substantial decreases in electricity consumption and lifecycle CO₂ emissions when compared to a traditional 520 kW rooftop HVAC system required to cater for the traditional HVAC needs of the factory. The findings indicate the system's feasibility for sustainable industrial cooling and its compatibility with Dubai's Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and objectives for energy demand reduction.