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Advanced DST Dehumidification System Installed at University Sports Facility in West Sussex
An advanced desiccant dehumidification system was installed at a university sports hall in West Sussex after the facility experienced ongoing condensation problems, poor air quality during high-attendance events and unstable internal conditions. The installation, completed in 2024, has delivered a controlled and reliable indoor environment for daily sports use and large university functions.
Persistent Condensation and Air Quality Concerns
The sports hall is constructed from a PVC membrane and features exposed steelwork and overhead ducting. Before the upgrade, high indoor humidity frequently pushed dew point above surface temperatures, leading to visible moisture forming on beams and supply ducts. Wet surfaces increased slip risks for students and staff, especially during periods of heavy use. Air quality had also fallen below suitable levels during concerts and special events that brought up to 300 people into the hall. With limited air change, carbon dioxide levels rose beyond recommended indoor values, creating an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe environment. The university required a solution that could stabilise humidity, prevent condensation and respond automatically to fluctuating occupancy.
Technical Challenges
The project required a system capable of managing several complex conditions. The hall faced regular swings in moisture load due to varying attendance, with around 100 occupants during daily activity and three times that number during events. Summer moisture levels reached approximately 13.4 g/kg, placing additional strain on the existing equipment, which was unable to maintain dew point control. Infrastructure changes had to be minimal, as the existing air handling unit and ductwork layout needed to remain in place.
DST’s Engineered Solution
Following a detailed technical assessment, a DST desiccant dehumidifier was selected and configured to manage dew point, relative humidity and ventilation rates. The system was designed to operate in closed-loop recirculation mode during standard occupancy and shift seamlessly into fresh air mode when CO₂ levels increase.
Dew Point Control
Humidity and dew point are monitored continuously, and the dehumidifier modulates its drying output to keep internal conditions below the dew point threshold. This prevents moisture forming on the hall’s steel structure, membrane surfaces and ductwork.
CO₂-Responsive Ventilation
A CO₂ sensor was installed to control fresh air volumes. When readings rise above the set limit, the system introduces outside air. All incoming fresh air is dehumidified before entering the hall, ensuring ventilation does not introduce additional moisture. This approach maintains safe indoor air conditions during concerts and university events.
Performance and Operating Conditions
The installed system was designed around a moisture removal duty of 49.8 kg per hour, a dry air volume of 10,500 cubic metres per hour and optional fresh air input up to 4,000 cubic metres per hour. Normal operation uses recirculated air to reduce energy demand. During high-attendance events, the unit increases fresh air processing while still holding dew point below condensation levels.
Target internal values were set at approximately 22 degrees Celsius and 60 percent relative humidity. These conditions support comfort, prevent condensation and maintain acceptable air quality.
Results Delivered
The facility reported significant improvements soon after commissioning. Condensation was eliminated across the hall, including on steel beams and ductwork. Slip risks were reduced, and equipment corrosion concerns were removed. CO₂ readings stayed within acceptable indoor thresholds even during peak attendance. The system operates efficiently by prioritising recirculated air for day-to-day use and bringing in dried fresh air only when required. The university now benefits from a stable environment suitable for both routine sports activities and large events. The system’s ability to handle variable occupancy ensures consistent performance throughout the year.
The DST desiccant dehumidification system has provided long-term environmental stability for the university sports hall by preventing condensation, protecting structural elements and maintaining safe air quality during crowded events. The project demonstrates how dew point control and CO₂-linked ventilation can be combined to manage complex indoor conditions in education and leisure facilities. Organisations facing condensation, humidity-related safety concerns or fluctuating occupancy loads can achieve similar benefits with a DST solution. For guidance on humidity control projects, contact us today.