EKS-HUM-031 / Dehumidification technology and performance
Desiccant Rotor
除湿转轮
A desiccant rotor is a slowly rotating, air-permeable matrix that carries desiccant between process-air and regeneration-air sectors.
- Aliases
- desiccant wheel, sorption rotor
QUANTITY, SYMBOL AND UNIT
Quantity / objectDesiccant rotor
UnitNot applicable
Definition
A desiccant rotor is a slowly rotating, air-permeable matrix that carries desiccant between process-air and regeneration-air sectors.
The process sector removes water vapour from the air being treated. Rotation then moves the moisture-loaded matrix into the regeneration sector, where it is dried before returning to the process side.
Relations and distinctions
Rotor and complete dehumidifier
The rotor is one component. Fans, seals, heater, filters, casing, controls and optional cooling determine the complete unit.
Rotor and heat-recovery wheel
Both may look similar, but their materials, purpose, sector arrangement and performance ratings differ.
Engineering meaning
- Specify process and regeneration inlet states, airflow, face velocity, pressure and leakage requirements around the rotor.
- Review seal condition, rotation, filtration and contamination because they affect sustained performance.
Common misconceptions
MisconceptionTwo machines using the same rotor diameter deliver the same dry-air condition.
Accurate explanationDesiccant formulation, matrix geometry, depth, velocity, regeneration, seals and controls all influence performance.
Application boundaries
- Rotor type alone does not state moisture removal capacity, outlet dew point or energy input.
- The term does not include nonrotating desiccant beds or liquid-desiccant contactors.
Supporting sources
-
ASHRAE / SRC-ASHRAE-S20-CH24
ASHRAE Handbook - HVAC Systems and Equipment, Chapter 24: Desiccant Dehumidification and Pressure-Drying Equipment ↗
2020 IP edition / Chapter 24, Sections 2.2–2.3, continuous reactivation and rotary equipment
Supports: A desiccant rotor is a rotating structured medium containing desiccant; Different sectors alternately contact process and reactivation air; Rotor performance depends on air state, face velocity, desiccant and regeneration conditions
Maintenance record
Desiccant Rotor
- Maintained by
- Yakeclimate Engineering Team
- Authoritative sources verified
- August 3, 2026
- Terminology checked
- August 3, 2026
- Last updated
- August 3, 2026