The process in question involves the re-circulation of air within a closed environment, conditioned by an air conditioning system. This means that air already present inside a space is drawn back into the AC unit, treated (cooled, dehumidified, and potentially filtered), and then redistributed. A practical application of this mechanism is found in modern vehicles, where the air conditioning system can be set to recirculate cabin air, reducing the load on the compressor and improving cooling efficiency.
This recirculation offers several advantages, including enhanced energy efficiency. By cooling air that is already partially cooled, the system requires less energy compared to constantly cooling fresh, outside air. Furthermore, filtering capabilities within the AC unit can lead to improved indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, and other particulate matter. Historically, closed-loop air circulation systems have been employed in environments where maintaining a consistent and controlled atmosphere is critical, such as in submarines and spacecraft.