Numerical Study on the Discharge of Humidity in the Drum of a Washing Machine

Washing machine manufacturers typically advise consumers to maintain the relative humidity in the drum less than 80% for three days after the termination of a washing cycle in order to prevent bacteria proliferation. A vent installed in the back of a washing machine is used to release moisture to satisfy this condition. Up to now, the design and installation of the vent have been based on experiments without understanding its roles and physical phenomena. In this study, various CFD results are presented in order to explain the physical mechanism of moisture release in a washing machine. Two methods of moisture release (diffusion and convection) were studied; diffusion was found to be the dominant process in removing moisture. Experiments were also performed to validate this behavior. In addition, this study will aid in the efficient design of vents to keep the relative humidity low inside the drum.