Optimization strategy for air handling units in spacecraft launching site

Abstract Air handling units (AHUs) in spacecraft launching site (SLS) can maintain the spacecraft in specific air conditions before launching, however, the current air processing method is backward and consumes great deal of energy. This paper proposes an optimization strategy for AHUs in SLS to reduce energy consumption. Firstly a reasonable and simplified energy consumption model of the AHU in SLS is built, and the working characteristic of each piece of equipment is analyzed. Secondly minimum energy consumption is taken as optimization target, and corresponding constraints and optimization algorithm are analyzed. By these means, a complete optimization model is built. Next the psychrometric chart is introduced to zone the fresh air working conditions and analyze the air processing routes existing. Fourthly the optimization of each air processing route is implemented and the route demanding minimum energy consumption will be selected as the optimal air processing route. Finally the optimization strategy is applied to analyze the air processing routes for single point and multi-point of typical working conditions, demonstrating its strong ability to save energy.