Abstract: An improved apparatus for introducing steam into an airstream in an HVAC system includes a supply header, steam dispersing structure and structure for collecting condensation from the steam dispersing structure. The supply header is adapted for connection to a source of steam and is preferably elevated with respect to the return header, so that condensation in the supply header and steam dispersing structure is forced into the return header under the influence of steam pressure and gravity. One embodiment of the invention presents a pair of streamlined jackets on one or more of the dispersion tubes that reduce heat loss to the air stream, thereby reducing the amount of condensate that is formed. The jackets are streamlined to minimize turbulence and static pressure loss.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for introducing steam into an airstream in an HVAC system includes a supply header, steam dispersing structure and structure for collecting condensation from the steam dispersing structure. The supply header is adapted for connection to a source of steam and is preferably elevated with respect to the return header, so that condensation in the supply header and steam dispersing structure is forced into the return header under the influence of steam pressure and gravity. One embodiment of the invention presents a pair of streamlined jackets on one or more of the dispersion tubes that reduce heat loss to the air stream, thereby reducing the amount of condensate that is formed. The jackets are streamlined to minimize turbulence and static pressure loss.

Abstract: An apparatus for introducing steam into an airstream in an HVAC humidification system includes a steam supply header, a steam dispersion tube mounted above the supply header, a drain connected to a bottom end of the steam dispersion tube and a steam supply tube positioned within the steam dispersion tube. The steam supply tube has a lower end communicated with the supply header and an upper end that is communicated with the top end of the steam dispersion tube. Since steam is introduced into the top end of the steam dispersion tube, rather than the bottom end, moisture droplets that are entrained in the steam will be urged downwardly by the steam flow toward the drain rather than held up within the steam dispersion tube, significantly increasing the rate at which steam may be introduced into the airstream without spitting.

Abstract: A heat exchange humidifier for generation of steam-to-steam or fluid-to-steam humidity may include at least one steam tube in a heat exchanger array which may be coated with a non-stick surface such as tetrafluoroethylene (TEFLON.RTM.) coating or the like, to prevent the build-up of minerals. The steam tubes in the heat exchanger array are in a substantially layered configuration, each layer being offset and below the preceding upper layer, or in helical configuration. This organization of the tubes in the heat exchanger array maximizes convection currents in a fluid surrounding the steam tubes to minimize dead water films and maximize heat transfer from the steam or fluid inside of the tubes to the surrounding water, resulting in an overall increase in boil-off capacity for adding humidity to the air.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for introduicng steam into an airstream in a heating, ventilating and air conditioning system includes a supply header, steam dispersing structure and structure for collecting condensation from the steam dispersing structure. The supply header is adapted for connection to a source of steam and is preferably elevated with respect to the return header, so that condensation in the supply header is forced into the return header under the influence of steam pressure and gravity. Both headers may further be inclined to improve drainage of condensation. The invention optionally may utilize fenders in conjunction with the steam dispersing structure to minimize heat transfer to the airstream.

Abstract: A humidifier unit is used with a forced air heating system and includes a water reservoir, a water inlet connection to the reservoir, control means for maintaining the water level at a predetermined depth, and a heat exchanger for heating the water to produce steam. This reservoir has a removable top plate for closing the open top defined by the upper edges of side and end walls. Horizontal flanges extend inward from the upper edges of the reservoir side and end walls and act as a gasket base. Lips extend upward from the inner edges of those horizontal flanges and act as an internal horizontal gasket retainer. Finally, flanges depend from all sides of the top plate and are positioned to surround the upper edges of the side walls and to act as an external horizontal gasket retainer.

Abstract: A water-steam separator is used in conjunction with a steam humidifier system to maintain the relative humidity within a desired range in buildings. The separator includes a container, a vapor inlet supply pipe, and an outlet steam distribution pipe. One portion of the outlet steam distribution pipe extends outwardly from the container and has apertures therein for distributing dry steam. Another portion of the outlet steam distribution pipe extends inwardly toward the center of the container and has an opening spaced inwardly from the container wall to reduce condensates entering the outlet pipe.

Abstract: A humidifier system where atomized water is caused to be rapidly evaporated as a result of being strategically located in the path of high velocity turbulent air created by converging deflector vane sets, and delivered to an outlet duct end for further distribution. An alternative embodiment illustrates a humidifier system where a central steam tube is substituted for the atomizing nozzles and steam fog is discharged into the high velocity turbulent air plane. Angled orifices in the central steam tube disperse steam against the air flow to further disperse steam within the humidifier assembly.

Abstract: A steam humidifier cabinet provides a small cabinet which can be used in room installations and which provides a heated evaporative chamber for forming steam, and a fan for receiving the steam being generated and dispersing it through a cabinet passageway into the room. The evaporative chamber used for generating the steam is enclosed to prevent any leakage, or damage, and is accessible easily for cleaning or other servicing because it mounts on tracks which permit it to be slid out of the cabinet enclosure. Additionally, the heating element used for generating steam is attached to a cover and the cover is supportable out of the way on supports provided on the cabinet.

Abstract: A humidifier for use with a forced air heating system. The humidifier comprises a water reservoir in the form of a sealed container having a water inlet connection and suitable control means for maintaining the level of the water at a predetermined depth within the reservoir. An electric immersion type heater is also provided within the sealed container at a level which is normally below the water level and, when energized, heats the water to produce steam. The reservoir can be mounted completely external to a duct of the forced air heating system, but an inverted U-shaped tube having preparations along the base thereof is disposed within the duct and has its parallel legs passing through the duct and reservoir so as to communicate with the portion of the reservoir above the level of the water therein. As such, the steam passes through the U-shaped tube and out its perforations to thereby add moisture to the air passing through the duct.