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Table 5.5 Comparison of condensation between experimental results and model outputs vs. tube<br />

heating under CPAP pressure setting at 12cmH2O, heating element setting at 55°C and normal<br />

room temperature<br />

Pressure<br />

Setting<br />

12 cmH2O<br />

Ambient<br />

Conditions<br />

T 21.9°C<br />

RH 64.0%<br />

Heating<br />

Element<br />

Setting<br />

55°C<br />

Tube<br />

Heating<br />

140<br />

0 W<br />

15 W<br />

30 W<br />

Condensation<br />

(Exp.)<br />

Condensation<br />

(Model)<br />

Yes Yes<br />

Starts from<br />

Lump 5<br />

Starts from<br />

Lump 19<br />

No No<br />

No No<br />

From the experimental observation and model outputs, the higher humidifier heating<br />

element temperature setting generates more condensation. On the other hand, higher<br />

CPAP pressure setting, ambient temperature and tube heating decrease the<br />

condensation.<br />

Overall, the condensation in HADT is determined by its wall temperature and the<br />

airflow humidity. The influences by factors are listed below:<br />

Table 5.6 Factors influencing HADT condensation<br />

Factor Trends condensation<br />

Ambient temperature Increase Less<br />

ambient humidity Increase More<br />

CPAP pressure setting Increase Less<br />

Humidifier heating Increase More<br />

Tube heating Increase Less<br />

Generally the model slightly under-predicts condensation in the HADT. This may be<br />

because:<br />

1. There is a small in-room air movement which is not included in the model. The<br />

in-room air movement can increase thermal convection on the outer surface of<br />

the HADT thus decreases HADT wall temperature and increases condensation.<br />

2. The model also generally gives a slightly lower evaporation rate which will also<br />

reduce the condensation in the HADT.

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