Case Study

Marlow Foods condensation elimination and production efficiency improvement

Overview

Client: Marlow Foods Limited

Industry: Food

Project Overview: Upgraded ventilation and dehumidification system eliminates condensation in high care unit

Outcomes

  • Complex project completed with minimal production downtime
  • Areas now operate dry (RH less than 50%) with good access for hygiene control
  • All exhaust air odour treated

Challenges

Excessive steam release issues in the production area was causing massive condensation issues on the walls and ceiling with moist air getting into the chiller. The ice build up on the chiller evaporator resulted in shorter run times and downtime to regularly defrost.

The proximity of a spiral steamer and spiral chiller was contributing to the high moisture transfer problems. Condensation on the building fabric was also increasing the hygiene risk. Our brief was to significantly reduce the very high humidity conditions in this high care space. Previous attempted solutions had made the situation worse.

 

Solutions

Penmann enclosed the area in a hygienic insulated stainless steel clad room and then ventilated the room with dry warm air, to absorb the moisture and prevent fogging and condensation, using a desiccant de humidifier.

  • Original extraction system stripped out & the area opened up
  • Stainless steel liner to improve cleanability & protect structure
  • New desiccant dehumidified supply air system
  • New odour treatment system utilising energy efficient cooling tower

Conclusion

In conclusion, the upgraded ventilation and dehumidification system at Marlow Foods successfully eliminated condensation issues in the high care unit, ensuring areas operate dry with less than 50% relative humidity and improved hygiene control. The complex project was completed with minimal production downtime and included enclosing the area in a hygienic, insulated stainless steel clad room, ventilating with dry, warm air using a desiccant dehumidifier, and implementing a new odour treatment system. This solution addressed excessive steam release and high moisture transfer problems, enhancing production efficiency and hygiene while preventing further condensation and related issues.