Paper is a highly hygroscopic material, continuously absorbing and releasing moisture from the surrounding air. Even small fluctuations in humidity can affect its dimensions, physical properties, and performance during testing. For facilities working with paper research, development, and quality control, maintaining stable environmental conditions is therefore essential.
This was the challenge at the Centre Technique du Papier (CTP) in Saint-Martin-d'Hères, France, where a dedicated pre-conditioning room required precise control of temperature and humidity as part of its air treatment system. The project was completed in 2024 and remains a successful reference installation today.
Before paper products can be accurately tested, they must be conditioned under controlled environmental conditions. Variations in humidity can alter paper characteristics, influencing strength, flexibility, dimensional stability, and test results. Consistent humidity levels help ensure reliable measurements and repeatable outcomes.
Creating these conditions requires more than simply removing moisture from the air. Depending on seasonal changes and outdoor climate conditions, facilities may need both humidification and dehumidification to maintain the required environment year-round. In this case, the client's requirement was to maintain paper samples at a constant temperature and humidity level to guarantee reliable conditioning and testing results.
The project originated through a long-standing collaboration between Teddington France and Richardson Génie Climatique. Having successfully worked together on numerous swimming pool and industrial humidity control installations, Richardson approached Teddington France to support the project after it was introduced by their installer client, Climafroid Alpes.
Based on the conditioning room requirements, Teddington France calculated both the humidification and dehumidification capacities required to achieve the target environmental conditions. Following approval by the end client, a complete humidity control solution was supplied and installed.
The system combines:
As part of the overall air treatment system, the solution enables both humidification and dehumidification, providing the flexibility required to maintain stable environmental conditions throughout the year, regardless of seasonal or external weather variations.
The installation enables reliable moisture removal, accurate humidity control, and consistent conditioning conditions for paper testing and research activities.
Cotes C35E Adsorption Dehumidifier
Piping
Cotes electronic control panel
Successful humidity control projects rely on close collaboration between technology providers, engineering specialists, and installation partners.
Richardson Génie Climatique was responsible for the engineering and system design, while Climafroid Alpes carried out the installation. Teddington France played an active role throughout the project, supporting system sizing, participating in commissioning activities, and providing training to the installer on equipment adjustment, operation, and maintenance.
This collaborative approach ensured a smooth project handover and optimal system performance from day one.
The success of the installation has led to continued cooperation between the project partners, with additional projects currently underway. The Centre Technique du Papier remains highly satisfied with the performance of the equipment and its ability to maintain the required environmental conditions.
Installation and commissioning
Paper testing, storage, and processing environments often require carefully controlled humidity levels to maintain product quality and ensure accurate measurements. Adsorption dehumidification technology is particularly well suited to these applications, delivering dependable low-humidity performance when needed, while integration with humidification systems allows facilities to maintain precise target conditions regardless of season. By controlling humidity throughout the year, facilities can improve testing accuracy, protect material quality, and support more efficient operations.
About Teddington France
Teddington France specialises in humidity control and indoor climate solutions for industrial and commercial applications. As a trusted Cotes partner, the company supports customers across France with expertise in dehumidification, humidification, and air treatment technologies.
About Richardson Génie Climatique
Richardson Génie Climatique is a French specialist in HVAC and climate engineering solutions. The company provides technical expertise and system design support for projects requiring reliable and energy-efficient air treatment and environmental control.
About Climafroid Alpes
Climafroid Alpes designs, installs, and commissions refrigeration, air conditioning, and air treatment systems for industrial and commercial customers. The company works closely with technology partners to deliver tailored climate control solutions and ensure optimal system performance.
About Centre Technique du Papier (CTP)
Centre Technique du Papier (CTP), based in Saint-Martin-d'Hères, France, is a leading technical and research centre serving the paper, cardboard, and fibre-based materials industries. Through research, testing, and innovation, CTP helps manufacturers improve product quality, performance, and sustainability.
The choice of the type of dehumidification solution depends on the specific requirements of the processes, facility size, and energy efficiency considerations. Adsorption dehumidification offers numerous benefits, particularly in humidity-sensitive applications like printing and packaging. Adsorption dehumidifiers are known for their ability to achieve lower humidity levels, making them highly effective in environments where stringent humidity control is essential. They are also energy-efficient, as they can operate at lower temperatures compared to other dehumidification technologies.
The facility’s size and the required RH level typically serve as primary factors in determining the most suitable Cotes adsorption dehumidifier. The Cotes C-line dehumidifiers, known for their precision in humidity control, stand out for their reliability and energy efficiency, making them ideal for maintaining consistent print quality and minimising production disruptions.
Do you have issues with humidity?
If you would like to determine whether you need a dry-air solution in your facilities or would like to explore what a customised dry-air strategy can do for your business, please reach out to one of our trusted partners near you.