Air recuperator: advantages, varieties and manufacturing features

Recuperation is the recycling of the already used air with a special device. This process can significantly reduce the cost of electricity. The air recuperator is a very useful device that has certain advantages and performs several functions depending on the time of year.

Advantages of the apparatus

So, the presented device has such advantages:

- economy (the air recuperator consumes significantly less energy than the air conditioner);

- high efficiency;

- small size (it all depends on your needs), for industrial use, you can choose large models;

- Possibility of application in private and multi-apartment buildings with centralized ventilation;

- the possibility of using the device in winter (for heating the air) and in the summer (for cooling it), with no additional energy sources being required;

- low cost;

- the possibility of independent construction of the unit;

- The recuperator provides both inflow and outflow of air, that is, you get additional natural airing of the room;

- Good sanitary and hygienic indicators.

Types of recuperators

To date, the market of electrical goods can offer a large number of models of devices, from which you can choose the right device. So, there are such types of recuperators:

- Rotary;

- Roof;

- water recirculation;

- lamellar.

What materials are needed to make the device?

If you want to make an air recuperator for your home with your own hands, then first you need to collect the necessary materials and tools. At once it is necessary to note that you will not need any expensive accessories. You can build a structure from improvised materials.

So, you will need:

- sheet metal of small thickness (can be galvanized);

- Strips from the technical plug (for the frame);

- neutral sealant;

- MDF (for the construction of the body of the apparatus). For the same purpose, you can use a standard tin box of a given size;

- flanges for pipes.

Of course, you also need to prepare tools: scissors for cutting metal, screwdrivers and bolts with nuts, screws or other fasteners.

Manufacturing technology of the device

From this article you can learn how to make plate air recuperators. They are the easiest to use and manufacture. In addition, the raw materials that will be used in the work have a low cost. So, all actions must be performed in a certain sequence:

1. First of all, it is necessary to determine the dimensions of the device, since this determines the width and length of the plates. Before starting work, it is advisable to draw a drawing of the machine on paper and make all the necessary calculations in advance.

2. Now proceed to cutting the plates. The standard dimensions of each element are 20 * 30 cm. If metal is not at your disposal, you can apply textolite or cellular polycarbonate. Note that all sides of the plates must be perfectly even, so do not rush during the cutting process. If the scissors do not do this correctly, then use an electric jig saw with a metal hacksaw. In this case, the edges do not need to be leveled.

3. Next, a frame is made that will be installed between the plates. The thickness of such a structure should not exceed 3 mm. Note that between the plates you need to leave small gaps (about 4 mm).

4. At this stage, the air recuperator can be fully assembled. To fix the elements, use a neutral sealant, as only it will not promote rusting and corrosion of the metal. After the fixer has completely dried, place the device in the prepared housing. Note that for more efficient operation of the device, the inner surface of the walls of the box must be covered with a heater (mainly mineral wool).

5. In the case, it is necessary to drill holes, into which flanges will be inserted to connect the device to the air ducts. All cracks must be treated with silicone sealant.

Helpful Tips

Now you know how to build an air recuperator with your own hands. However, it should be used correctly. For example, a device that operates on a plate base can freeze if the air temperature drops below 10 degrees. In order for this problem to be easily corrected, try to install a special sensor inside the unit that will record the pressure drops.

In order to maximally isolate the noise of the working device, inside the box, attach fiberglass or mineral wool. These are all features of the manufacture and application of the presented devices. Good luck!