Case Study - Boehringer Ingleheim: When expensive equipment is installed in a damp location, it can rapidly cause costly problems

When expensive equipment is installed in a damp location, it can rapidly cause costly problems as the moisture corrodes metals, materials and circuitry that are vital for effective operation. Virtually all materials, even plastics, are adversely affected by excess moisture and, of course; it can create unexpected breakdowns in electronic circuitry causing the unwanted knock on effects of inspection, replacement or repair.

Pharmaceuticals company Boehringer Ingleheim were conscious of this when they installed a new water treatment plant in the cold water service tank room at their Bracknell production plant. They took steps to eliminate the condensation that was a feature of this moisture-laden area by calling in air conditioning and building service contractors. The solution recommended was simple; a desiccant dehumidifier from Munters, to reduce the dewpoint of the air in the tank room was to a level where condensation no longer occurred. To achieve this, it was necessary to maintain a maximum relative humidity level of 50%, which is monitored by a humidistat. Boehringer said "We knew that dehumidification was the answer to this problem and considered a number of alternative suppliers. However, it was Munters that offered the most cost-effective solution. It was a very simple system that works well."