Enclosed Lifeboat Dehumidification System
Project: MDC160 42VAC
Quick Scrolls
The Challenge
Protecting Lifeboat Equipment from Humid Marine Conditions
In harsh marine environments, excessive humidity poses a serious risk to electrical systems and onboard equipment in enclosed lifeboats.
Survitec Survival Craft (formerly Survival Craft Inspectorate Ltd, Aberdeen, Scotland), a leading lifeboat manufacturer, required a custom dehumidifier to provide dry air inside enclosed lifeboats, ensuring long-term protection against corrosion and equipment failure.
However, standard dehumidifiers were unsuitable for two key reasons:
- Power Compatibility – Most single-phase dehumidifiers operate on 230VAC, whereas the lifeboat’s power supply was 42VAC.
- Limited Installation Space – The dehumidifier needed to be extremely compact while still delivering high moisture removal performance.
The Solution
MDC160 42VAC Ultra-Compact Marine Dehumidifier
DT Group engineers designed one of the world’s smallest industrial desiccant dehumidifiers, specifically tailored to 42VAC power requirements.
- Ultra-Compact Design – Measuring just 305x305x305mm, the unit fits seamlessly into lifeboats.
- High Moisture Removal Efficiency – Despite its size, it removes up to 0.6 liters of moisture per hour with only 1.0 kW power consumption.
- Fully Autonomous Operation – Equipped with an electromechanical humidistat, the unit automatically activates/deactivates based on humidity levels.
Simple Installation & Maintenance – Requires only a power connection and a wet air exhaust hose, with minimal maintenance (just air filter replacement).
Key Features of the MDC160 42VAC Marine Dehumidifier
Designed specifically for 42VAC power supply, ensuring compatibility with marine electrical systems.
- Prevents corrosion by maintaining low humidity levels in enclosed lifeboats.
- Fully automated operation, requiring minimal user intervention.
- Ideal for vessels, offshore platforms, and marine storage applications.
The Results
Reliable, Maintenance-Free Dehumidification for Marine Safety Equipment
The MDC160 42VAC has been successfully deployed in lifeboats on multiple vessels and offshore platforms, providing:
- Long-term protection for critical electrical and safety equipment.
- Corrosion prevention, ensuring equipment remains operational in emergencies.
- Energy-efficient dehumidification with minimal maintenance requirements.
By integrating compact, autonomous desiccant dehumidification, Survitec has enhanced the reliability and longevity of enclosed lifeboat systems, reinforcing safety and performance in extreme marine environments.