Aircraft humidification system development

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Aircraft humidification system development

Halfpenny, P.F.

Aircraft humidification systems have, in the past, had operational and maintenance problems that have caused most airlines to consider the concept impractical. However, as flight segment lengths have increased, the adverse physiological effects of low humidity have become more pronounced and consideration has been given to developing systems more compatible with airline operations. Relative humidity in the flight station typically is less than 5 percent and this has been shown to adversely affect crew comfort, performance, and health. Similar effects are reported by flight attendants and passengers where cabin humidity is as low as 6 to 7 percent. A description of the system developed for the British Airways L-1011 is given in the paper. This design uses untreated potable water from the aircraft tanks and evaporates it by mixing with hot engine bleed air. As ambient temperature varies and engine bleed conditions change, the humidifier bleed air control valves compensate to ensure complete evaporation of the injected water. A discussion of the requirements for humidification, an analysis of the psychrometric parameters, methods of contaminate control, and water treatment concepts are covered in the paper. (Wassmann)