Munters Get The Edge At Borders Ice Rink

Borders Ice Rink is a well established curling club in the Scottish Borders and is also well known as Kelso Ice Rink.

The key to creating the ideal Ice/Curling Arena environment is to control the dew point temperature of the air. In 2005 they called humidity experts, Munters to discuss ways in which they could improve the conditions of both the ice and the hall. The main areas of concern are:-

If moisture condenses on the walls and the roof these water droplets fall making the ice granular. The freezing of condensed moisture makes the ice surface extremely rough which requires the ice surfacing machine to be used more frequently. The climate feels damp and raw leading to uncomfortable conditions for the curlers. Mist can also occur making it difficult to see. High humidity levels increase the risk of corrosion and other moisture related damage to the building fabric such as mould and mildew.

The solution arrived at by Munters was to control the internal dewpoint temperature to the same temperature as the coldest surface temperature (say 0oC). If the internal temperature is at a fairly constant 6oC, this would mean that the internal relative humidity must be controlled at around 60%-65% RH at all times.

The outcome now is that: the Climate is more comfortable, no fog and no droplets from the roof or walls. The Building is protected from corrosion, mould, mildew and other moisture damage. The Ice Quality is much improved, the surfaces are smooth due to no condensed moisture, especially for curling. Maintenance is greatly lowered due to reduced resurfacing of the ice. Curlers and the Public feel more comfortable if the air is dry (even at low temperatures). Condensation has been eliminated from the Ice surface resulting in less ice resurfacing and rink shut down. Reduced corrosion on building fabric - Often RH can reach 90% causing corrosion. Guaranteed cold and dry environment. Reduce health risks associated with cold and humid atmospheres.

For reader enquiries please contact:
Nancy Booth
Marketing Assistant
Tel: 08708 505 202
Fax: 01480 413147
Email: dryair@munters.co.uk
Web: www.munters.co.uk