Page 1
ENGINEERING MANUAL Steam humidifier Nortec RS series Humidification and Evaporative Cooling...
Page 2
Condair Ltd., except to the extent required for installation or maintenance of recipient's equipment. Liability Notice Condair Ltd. does not accept any liability due to incorrect installation or operation of the equipment or due to the use of parts/components/equipment that are not authorized by Condair Ltd.
Contents Nortec RS Steam Humidifier General Description Features 1.2.1 Detailed Features List Options Accessories Humidifier Components User Interface Operation Functional description Sequence of Operation Drain interval time / water consumption Product Specifications Model Specifications 3.1.1 Model Designation 3.1.2 Nortec RS Specifications Specification Drawings Planning Location and Clearances Services Installation Requirements...
Page 4
Total Humidification Load Calculation Total Humification Load 5.1.1 Calculating Base Humidification Load 5.1.1.1 Total Unconditioned Air Supply Volume 5.1.1.2 Unconditioned Supply Air Moisture 5.1.1.3 Conditioned Air Moisture 5.1.1.4 Base Humidification Load 5.1.2 Moisture Content Equilibrium 5.1.3 Condensate Loss Product Selection Humidifier and Options Steam Distribution Equipment Appendix Sample Specification Blank Schedule...
Page 5
Program (H.E.L.P.) to assist you with absorption distance calculations, selection of humidifiers, steam distributors, controls and accessories. Tutorials on using this program are available from the Literature & Media section of the Condair web- site – www.condair.com. Additional information on the effects of humidity, relative humidity calculations, load calculations, and recommended design conditions can be found in the Condair Humidification Load Calculation Manual (Condair document 2553856).
Nortec RS Steam Humidifier General Description The Nortec RS humidifier is an atmospheric steam generator, which operates on the resistance heat- ing principle – heat is generated by the resistive heating elements immersed in water. The Nortec RS humidifier is designed for direct room humidification using a blower pack, or humidification through the ducts in an air handling unit using a steam distributor.
Features The Nortec RS humidifier has many advanced features that set it apart from other humidifiers. • Pure, clean steam at an economical price. • Fully configured and packaged unit that is ready to install out-of-the-box. • Patented Scale Management option provides easiest maintenance on the market. •...
1.2.1 Detailed Features List Table 1: Nortec RS Features Nortec RS Feature Description Standard Optional Touchscreen interface Intuitive user interface to configure and monitor the humidi- fier. Digital graphic display Displays visual feedback of the humidifier inputs (conditioned environment humidity and setpoints).
Options Table 2 lists the options available for the Nortec RS humidifier. Detailed installation instructions are sup- plied with each option. Table 2: Nortec RS Options Availability Option Description Factory Field Install Installed Built-on blower pack A blower pack is used to distribute steam generated by ...
2520263 – Duct-mounted temperature sensor 2553858 – Outdoor mounted temperature sensor Humidity transducers Condair offers a range of digital humidity sensors for duct and wall-mounting for use with control and high limit applications. Refer to Table 7 on page Air proving switch Provides a mechanical differential pressure switch to enable humidifier operation when there is airflow through the ventilation ducts.
Page 11
Table 3: Nortec RS Accessories, continued... Accessory Description Condensate pump High temperature condensate pump for pumping waste water from the Nortec RS or conden- sate from the distributor systems. 1429527 – Drain water sump pump, low flow 2524504 – Electric sump pump, medium flow 2576898 –...
Humidifier Components Figure 2 shows the various components of the Nortec RS humidifier. The door panels have been removed for clarity. Figure 2: Nortec RS Humidifier Components (Medium Size Model Shown) Scale collector tank drain valve (optional) 17 Heating elements Scale collector tank (optional) 18 Excess temperature switch Coupling sleeve 19 Steam cylinder...
Page 13
The Nortec RS humidifier housing contains two cabinets – the plumbing cabinet (on the left) and the Figure 2 on page Table 4 controls cabinet (on the right) – refer to summarizes the functions of the main components in these two cabinets. Table 4: Nortec RS Humidifier Component Functions Component Function...
Page 14
Table Part numbers and quantities for ordering Nortec RS options are shown in Table 5: Nortec RS Options, Part Number Matrix Nortec RS unit size S unit size M unit size L Process/Precision Provides capability of humidifier to achieve ± 1% humidity control*. Solid State Relays allow for rapid re- sponse upon call for humidity, adapt- ing instantly to humidity demand.
Page 15
Nortec RS unit size S unit size M unit size L Mounting rail Provides two mounting rails which fit into each other for wall mounting. One bar is fastened to the humidifier, the other bar is fastened to the wall. The not available for 1x MP-S 1x MP-M...
Table Part numbers for ordering other Condair accessories are shown in Table 7: Condair Humidistat Part Numbers Demand Transducer Part Digital Mechanical 0-10 VDC 2-10 VDC On/Off Fan Start Duct- Wall- Duct- Wall- Number mounted mounted mounted mounted 2548732 –...
Operation Functional description The Nortec RS steam humidifier is an atmospheric steam generator. It operates on the resistance heating principle and is designed for direct room air humidification (with blower pack) and indirect humidification (with steam distributor) in HVAC systems. Water supply The water is supplied via an optional external sediment filter to the steam humidifier.
Sequence of Operation The following is a general sequence of operation – the actual sequence may vary depending upon op- Figure 4 on page erating conditions and user-configurable parameters. Refer to 1. When the humidifier receives a valid humidity demand signal, the level unit of the Nortec RS performs a level test.
Page 19
Driver board CR2032 Control board 20 21 9 10 Figure 4: Humidifier Schematic Steam distributor 12 Lime collector tank Condensate drain line 13 Steam cylinder Steam line 14 Level unit Fill cup 15 Excess temperature switch Resistive heating elements 16 Heating cable plug Supply hose 17 Control boeard Fill and drain hose...
Drain interval time / water consumption The drain interval time is either calculated automatically by the control software based on the set supply water quality and the water hardness or can be set manually. However the water quality on site must be obtained from the local water supplier.
Product Specifications Model Specifications 3.1.1 Model Designation The specification label on the side (and the underside) of the Nortec RS humidifier shows its model "Humidifier Components" on page 7. The breakdown of the number, serial number and ratings – refer to Figure model number is shown in Example: Nortec RS Space 65 440-480V/3~ P SC...
3.1.2 Nortec RS Specifications The Nortec RS humidifier is available in a range of output capacities, voltages and configurations. Table 8 on page 17 Table 9 on page 19 Refer to for the Nortec RS (Duct) specifications, and for the Nortec RS Space specifications. In addition, the short-circuit current rating (SCCR) for all Nortec RS humidifiers is 5 kA.
Page 23
Table 8: Nortec RS Specifications, continued... Maximum Power Netweight / Type Steam Nominal Fill Rate Drain Rate Voltage External consump- Operating (Housing Capacity current Fuse tion Weight size) lb/h (kg/h) (l/min) (l/min) lb (kg) 208 V/3~ 71.6 (32.5) 67.5 24.3 220-240 V/3~ 71.9 (32.6) 58.0 24.1...
Page 24
Table 9: Nortec RS Space Specifications Maximum Power Netweight / Type Steam Nominal Fill Rate Drain Rate Voltage External consump- Operating (Housing Capacity current Fuse tion Weight size) lb/h (kg/h) (l/min) (l/min) lb (kg) 208 V/1~ 10.9 (4.9) 17.8 220-240 V/1~ 10.9 (4.9) 15.5 RS 10 440-480 V/1~...
Specification Drawings Empty Weight 60 lbs 6.83 (173.5) CONDENSATE RETURN Full Weight 89 lbs 2.82 (71.7) ø 0.31 (8) 2X MARKED “A” Front Clearance 36 in. Ceiling Clearance 16 in. Left/Right Clearance 0 in. Floor Clearance 24 in. Water Inlet Pressure 30-80 psig STEAM OUT 4.87 (123.8)
Page 26
7.16 (181.8) Empty Weight 89 lbs 6.44 (163.5) CONDENSATE RETURN 2.43 (61.8) Full Weight 145 lbs ø 0.31 (8) 2X MARKED “A” Front Clearance 36 in. Ceiling Clearance 16 in. Left/Right Clearance 0 in. Floor Clearance 24 in. STEAM OUT Water Inlet Pressure 30-80 psig ø...
Page 27
20.49 (520.5) 16.49 (418.8) 6.44 (163.5) Empty Weight 179 lbs CONDENSATE OUT 2.43 (61.8) ø 0.31 (8) 4X MARKED “A” Full Weight 291 lbs Front Clearance 36 in. Ceiling Clearance 16 in. Left/Right Clearance 0 in. 178.8 535.8 Floor Clearance 24 in.
Page 28
Empty Weight 98 lbs Full Weight 127 lbs RS 10: 6 in. | RS 15-20: 60 in. Front Clearance* Ceiling Clearance* 12 in. Left/Right Clearance* 12 in. Floor Clearance* 86.5 in. to top of blower pack Water Inlet Pressure 30-80 psig 15.8 (400) 16.54 (420) 2.24 (57)
Page 29
Empty Weight 127lbs 20.9 (530) Full Weight 183 lbs RS 30: 71 in. | RS 45: 132 in. | Front Clearance* RS 65: 153 in. | RS 90: 218 in. Ceiling Clearance* 12 in. Left/Right Clearance* RS 10-45: 12 in. | RS 65-90: 30 in. Floor Clearance* 96 in.
26, which also show the clearances required for the Nortec RS Refer to Space unit. Observe all local and national installation codes. Condair is not responsible for any installation code violations. Refer to the Blower Pack Installation, Operation and maintenance Manual (Condair document 2582277) for clearances required for remote-mounted blower packs.
Page 31
Note: The High speed setting on the blower pack permits shorter absorption distances, whereas the Low setting permits the blower to run quieter but requires longer absorption distances. Visit and use the free Condair online program - Humidifier www.na.condairhelp.com Engineering and Load-sizing Program (H.E.L.P.) to assist with absorption distance and other calculations.
For mains pressures >80.0 psi (>5.5 bar), the connection must be made via a pressure reducing valve (adjusted to 30.0 psi (2.0 bar). For mains pressures <30.0 psi (<2.0 bar) please contact your Condair supplier. Water temperature should be 33.8 ... 77.0 °F (1...25 °C).
Refer to The unit can also be mounted on the wall (or equivalent support) using the optional mounting bar. Refer to the Nortec RS Installation Manual (Condair document 2582302 available from www.condair.com) for other mounting details. The following is a list of installation requirements for mounting the Nortec RS humidifier: ...
Page 34
Dimension Housing size Large "a" in inch/mm 6.46" (164.0) "b" in inch/mm 16.77" (426.0) "c" in inch/mm 4.61" (117.2) "d" in inch/mm 16.00" (406.4) Weights Housing size Large Netweight in lbs/kg 178.57 (81.0) Operating weight in lbs/kg 291.01 (132.0) Figure 14: Standard Humidifier Mounting - large size units 2596995_0_EN_1905 Nortec RS Planning...
4.3.2 Water and Drainage Connections The water and drain connections on the Nortec RS humidifier are located at the bottom of the unit. Refer Figure 15 Figure The flexible bent hose (supplied) connects a short length of 7/8 in (22 mm) drain line to the drain cup on the humidifier.
Additional information on the effects of humidity, relative humidity calculations, load calcula- tions, and recommended design conditions can be found in the Condair Humidification Load Calculation Manual (Condair document 2553856). 4.3.3.1 Duct Distributors A variety of duct distributors are available for the Nortec RS humidifier to accomodate duct dimensions, humidifier capacities and steam absorption distances.
Page 37
The following is a list of installation requirements for duct distributors to ensure steam is properly ab- sorbed, and condensation does not occur in the ducts: Steam distribution capacity must be equal to or greater than the humidifier steam production capac- ity, less steam line condensate losses.
4.3.3.2 Blower Packs Condair blower packs create an air stream to allow absorption of the atmospheric steam in the condi- tioned environment. Once the steam is absorbed, the humidity will disperse evenly throughout most conditioned environments without the need of further mechanical assistance (except when mechanical obstructions, localized variances in temperature, infiltrating air, or materials that have equalizing moisture "Space Distribution Control Design"...
Steam lines must be made of copper (MED Type-L) or stainless steel (minimum DIN 1.4301) exclu- sively. Use a Condair-supplied steam hose for short distances only. Steam lines made of any other materials may adversely affect operation of the unit.
Page 40
(13 m) (26 m) RS 130 * 50 ft 100 ft RS 180 * (15 m) (30 m) Condair Steam Hose RS 10- 10 ft P/N 1328820 – 1-3/4 in (45 mm) 0.15 lb/h/ft RS 180 (3 m) (0.22 kg/h/m) * ...
Page 41
Condensate Lines Condensate line and trap must be made of 1/4 in copper (MED Type-L) or 3/8 in stainless steel (minimum DIN 1.4301), or 3/8 in (9.5 mm) Condair condensate hose. Figure Condensate lines must connect into full size "Tee" fittings in the steam line. Refer to ...
Page 42
– refer to Figure 20. If necessary, a specifically designed optional Condair adaptor must be used to connect the steam lines to the steam distributor. All requirements for steam and condensate lines must be satisfied. Refer to "Steam Lines"...
4.3.4 Electrical Connection The power supply to the Nortec RS humidifier is routed into the bottom of the control cabinet. Refer to Figure The following is a list of installation requirements for power connections: The power supply cables should be sized to match the full voltage and current draw listed in the "Nortec RS Specifications"...
On/Off devices) connected to Pin 1 and Pin 2 on the low voltage terminal strip must be closed for the Nortec RS humidifier to operate. Condair highly recommends the use of a high limit humidis- "Duct Distribution Control tat and an air proving switch in the security loop for duct installations –...
The Nortec RS humidifier can be regulated using up to two modulating analog input signals, and multiple On/Off input signals for each steam cylinder. Analog controls can be supplied by Condair or by others. The Nortec RS humidifier can be factory-configured to enable/disable modulating and On/Off control Table 14).
The Nortec RS humidifier uses a three-pole connector (J6) on the integrated control board to facilitate Modbus EIA-485, 2-wire communications with the BMS. Refer to Modbus Installation and Operation Manual (Condair document 2560599) for the list of supported Modbus parameters and connection/configuration details.
CAT-5 or better cable with RJ-45 terminations is recommended for BTL-certified BACnet IP com- munications. 18-24 AWG shielded, twisted pair cable with 120 Ω impedance is recommended for LonWorks and BTL-certified BACnet MS/TP. To use the BTL-certified BACnet or LonWorks protocols, jumper J7 on the integrated control board must be Off.
Humidity Control Design 4.4.3.1 Duct Distribution Control Design When using the supply air duct for steam distribution, Condair highly recommends the use of an air proving switch and a high limit humidistat in addition to a humidity controller. Environments with exterior walls should also consider using an outdoor temperature sensor in the system.
Page 49
The following installation requirement must be observed when using a high limit switch in a duct distri- bution system: The distance between the steam distributor and the Condair duct humidistat or transducer should be minimum 10 ft (3 m), or greater than the calculated absorption distance. Refer to...
When distributing steam directly into the conditioned environment the humidification system will require a wall-mounted On/Off humidistat or transducer (RH sensor). Condair also recommends a high limit switch. Environments with exterior walls should consider using an outdoor temperature sensor to prevent condensation on windows/walls.
4.4.4 Remote Fault Indication Board The optional remote fault indication board includes four relays that can be used to provide remote status Figure indication. Refer to Each relay is described below: Unit On The normally open relay is closed when the humidifier has power and the On/Off switch is set to the On position.
4.4.5 Accessory Board The optional accessory board includes four relays that can be used to control other accessory devices. Figure Refer to Each relay is described below: Flush A The normally open relay can be wired to activate or deactivate the optional valve for flushing the water supply line for steam cylinder A.
Important! Independently of the maintenance counters the "Small maintenance" and the "Extended maintenance" are to be carried out at least once a year. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual (Condair document 2582418) for the regular mainte- nance requirements for the Nortec RS humidifier.
Tutorials on using this program are available from the Literature & Media section of the Condair website – www.condair.com. Additional information on the effects of humidity, relative humidity calculations, load calcula- tions, and recommended design conditions can be found in the Condair Humidification Load Calculation Manual (Condair document 2553856) from www.condair.com. 2596995_0_EN_1905 Nortec EL Total Humidification Load Calculation...
In applications where the unconditioned supply air will be drawn from the local atmosphere, Condair advises utilizing the weather data compiled by geographic location published by the ASHRAE Climate Data Centre.
5.1.1.3 Conditioned Air Moisture The moisture content for the designed air conditions must be determined next. To ensure the humidifier capacity will be able to satisfy design conditions, the calculations must be based on the highest desired design air temperatures and humidity. Once the highest design temperature and highest design humidity for the application are known, the moisture content of the conditioned air supply can be determines as follows: Conditioned Air Moisture (lb/ft...
Using Condair stainless steel air-gap insulation is one way to reduce distributor loses and conserve energy. Additional information on calculating condensate losses, and savings from the use of insulating distributors can be found in the Condair white paper “Condair Stainless Steel Air Gap Insulation R Value”.
Page 59
Supply Line Losses Condensate losses per linear foot can be roughly estimated in a system with properly designed atmos- pheric steam lines. The total length of the atmospheric steam line must be taken into account, which is the sum of the linear length of the steam pipe and equivalent length of every fitting in the line. For Table 13 on page 35.
Product Selection The following checklist can be used to select the Nortec RS humidifier and its options and accessories. However, Condair strongly advises you to visit www.na.condairhelp.com and use the free Condair online pro- gram – Humidifier Engineering and Load-sizing Program (H.E.L.P.) to assist you in sizing the humidifier and selecting options and accessories.
Page 61
Options Table 3 Select options and accessories, as required. For details of the options and accessories refer to on page 5 Table 3 on page 5 Table 5 on page 9 respectively. Refer to for option part numbers. Humidifier Options and Accessories Part Number "Remote Fault Indication Board"...
(if applicable), and accomodates the steam outlet connection to the humidifier. Refer to Distribution" on page 31 for available methods. If a SAM-e is required, refer to the SAM-e Engineering Manual (Condair document 1503529) for selec- tion information and part numbers, then make the appropriate selections below. SAM-e Configuration...
Page 63
If a Steam Distributor is required, refer to the Steam Distributor Engineering Manual (Condair document 1506117) for selection information and part number, then make the appropriate selection below. Steam Distributor Configuration Quantity Part Number Steam distributor If a blower pack is required, refer to the Blower Pack Installation Operation and Maintenance Manual (Condair document 2582277) for additional details, then make the appropriate selection below.
Appendix Sample Specification Work Included: a. Nortec RS Series resistive element humidifier[s] as indicated on drawing[s] and as indicated on schedule[s]. b. Complete and operable humidification system [which meets applicable building codes] c. Equipment start-up and project inspection by qualified factory trained representative.
Page 65
Single or dual channel analog signal acceptance, supporting both demand and transducer control. Ability to control setpoint from humidifier control when using transducer controls. b. Packaged system with Condair resistive element technology: Incoloy based resistive heating element for steam production.
Optional Accessories a. Refer to ‘Option schedule’ PART 3 - EXCECUTION Installation: a. Install humidifiers per manufacturers’ instructions. b. Install with required clearance for service and maintenance. Accessories: a. Install accessories in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. Commissioning: a. Start-up of humidifier to be by factory trained technician. Blank Schedule A blank schedule is included on the following page for your convenience.
Page 71
Warranty Condair Inc. and/or Condair Ltd. (hereinafter collectively referred to as THE COMPANY), warrant for a period of two years after installation or 30 months from manufacturer’s ship date, whichever date is earlier, that THE COMPANY’s manufactured and assembled products, not otherwise expressly warranted (with the exception of the cylinder), are free from defects in material and workmanship.
Page 72
Sales and Service: U.S.A. 835 Commerce Park Drive Ogdensburg, New York 13669 CANADA 2740 Fenton Road Ottawa, Ontario K1T 3T7 TEL: 1.866.667.8321 FAX: 613.822.7964 EMAIL: na.info@condair.com WEBSITE: www.condair.com...
Need help?
Do you have a question about the Nortec RS Series and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers