Re: [PSUBS-MAILIST] Condensation in a psub

[Jon Wallace <jonw@psubs.org>]

Frank,

Calcium Chloride (Ice Melt) is a desiccant which works well as a 
dehumidifier.  It's cheap, except in the winter after a bad snow storm, 
and can be dried out and reused although because the cost is relatively 
low I'm not sure it would be worth the effort of drying it out.

Jon



ShellyDalg@aol.com wrote:
> In a message dated 2/7/2010 7:12:22 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, 
> jonw@psubs.org writes:
>
>     Condensation is an issue as well but hopefully we can find
>     solutions to
>     counter it.
>
> This brings up a point that has sparked my interest on several occasions.
> We've heard mention of condensation on windows, bilge areas, and 
> general corrosion issues inside our subs.
> Good paint, diligent maintenance, and the use of stainless and epoxy 
> potting where possible are methods to help keep the damage to a 
> minimum. I have tried to keep my various fabrications and overall 
> design geared toward maintainability as much as possible, knowing that 
> I'll need to grind out and re-paint on a regular basis. No computers 
> on-board but some electronics are necessary. ( my Margarita blender 
> has a hand crank )
> Preventing and managing condensation could be a large part of a good 
> maintenance program.
> The air circulatory system in our little boats seems like the logical 
> place to attack the problem of excess condensation.
> With or without a CO2 scrubber system, it could be beneficial to have 
> a water scrubber in a psub.
> I wonder how a canister of desiccant could be incorporated into the 
> duct system, or how effective it would be at removing moisture from 
> the cabin air.
> Some of our northern members like Dean have expressed interest in a 
> heater for the sub. Others have mentioned the increased moisture when 
> operating in tropical waters.
> Can a canister of desiccant be dried out and re-used ?
> How much electrical energy would be used to drive such a system ?
> How much air volume would need to be processed per person ? 
> Can a "water trap" be made with a reservoir that can be dumped after 
> each dive ?
> How much water actually collects in a sub ?
> Does a bilge need a pump or would a sponge be enough to evacuate the 
> water ?
> Anybody got any ideas on this ?
> Frank D.
>  




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