Climate control is essential in industrial environments. Getting it right allows processes to remain within specifications while also protecting workers from temperature and humidity extremes.
Climate control works primarily through air conditioning systems. These remove heat from the internal atmosphere by transferring it to the environment via radiators and coils. Combined with dehumidification, they can reduce the air’s moisture content, too, for additional benefits.
This article covers various industrial air conditioning systems, the benefits of using them in industrial settings, and how to choose effective products. It teaches you why these installations are such effective solutions for companies needing to manage high heat. Read on to learn more.
Types of Industrial Air Conditioning Systems
Various types of industrial air conditioner systems are available. These work in different ways.
Centralised Air Conditioning Systems
Centralised air conditioning systems are the most impressive. These are suitable for large, uniform-temperature facilities, such as factories, warehouses, and treatment plants, due to their ability to process large volumes of air.
Centralised air conditioning works by using ducting to transfer heat to the external environment via a single point. Usually, these systems connect to a large external condenser facility where coolant and fans dissipate heat into the air.
Packaged Air Conditioning Units
Packaged air conditioning units are the opposite and suitable for more compact installations. These work to reduce the heat contained in specific rooms instead of working premises-wide.
Most units have internal cooling fans that connect directly through the wall to the external heat-dissipating equipment. Companies like these solutions because they require less building work and installation time. They also deliver highly efficient cooling, using fewer air movements through ducting for the same effect.
Rooftop Units
Rooftop units are the most space-efficient solutions for industrial premises, particularly in built-up areas. These fit the condenser unit on the roof where it dissipates heat into the atmosphere away from the facility.
Rooftop units are easier to hide than those fitted to the side of the building and facilities managers find them aesthetically preferable.
Industrial Portable Air Conditioners
Finally, some industrial companies use portable air conditioners. These provide flexible cooling in specific areas depending on need.
For example, a particular room in a workshop could be getting too warm for staff. Portable units can provide temporary relief for workers and return internal conditions to compliance with workplace safety regulations.
Benefits of Implementing Industrial Air Conditioning
The benefits of implementing industrial AC units can be substantial. Businesses and employees both do better when systems are functioning.
Enhanced Employee Comfort and Productivity
For example, employee comfort and productivity are higher with proper climate control. Research shows that employees make fewer errors when temperatures are optimal.
Furthermore, the productivity of employees benefiting from air conditioning could be as much as 25% higher. Avoiding excessive heat appears to enable workers to focus more carefully on their tasks.
Job satisfaction may also benefit from air conditioning. Workers who feel comfortable and looked after by their firms are more likely to stay, reducing turnover.
Equipment Protection
Equipment protection may be another benefit of effective climate control in some settings. Air conditioning can prevent machinery from overheating in hot, humid environments, maintaining its performance and lifespan.
For example, research shows that ineffective thermal management can reduce the lifespan of electric equipment substantially. For every 10°C increase in temperature, lifespan can decrease by 50%.
Furthermore, excessive heat can sometimes lead to what experts call “thermal runaway” where machine temperature increases out of control until it hits a new equilibrium. Again, this effect can significantly reduce its lifespan.
Key Considerations When Selecting an Industrial Air Conditioning System
So, what factors should you consider when selecting an industrial air conditioning unit?
Facility Size and Layout
You should start with your facility size and layout. You’ll need to determine your cooling requirements based on space and dimensions.
Larger facilities benefit more from system air conditioning units. These send cool air from a single plant-sized external condenser to the interiors.
Meanwhile, smaller facilities or those with limited cooling requirements may want to opt for packaged systems. These are ideal for cooling single rooms (e.g. those containing lots of machinery).
Climate and Environmental Factors
You also need to factor in local climate conditions when selecting an industrial aircon. The ability of units to manage differing humidity and temperature levels can vary substantially.
Manufacturers will usually tell you the operating range of their systems in the manuals that come with units. Most ACs are okay with humidities up to 85% and temperatures up to 45°C. However, they may falter if conditions become more extreme.
Budget and Operational Costs
Finally, you should consider the budget and operational costs when choosing an industrial AC unit. Always, evaluate the initial investments against long-term operational expenses to see if the product you want is affordable and cost-effective.
Many companies over-purchase equipment, buying more than they need. Don’t fall into this trap.
Advancements in Industrial Air Conditioning Technology
Industrial aircon units continue to advance at a rapid pace, so you should consider technology before buying anything. More advanced solutions could represent better value for money.
Smart Controls and Automation
Start by thinking about the benefits of smart controls and automation. New systems are using AI and the IoT to enhance efficiency and adjust settings without human input.
For example, AI can now assess temperature and humidity conditions in real time and adjust AC unit settings accordingly. The technology can also adjust airflow based on demand and even integrate with machinery, evaluating its requirements and responding accordingly.
Furthermore, AI is playing a role in air conditioning maintenance. Sensor data now allows systems to predict maintenance issues before they cause units to fail.
Eco-Friendly Refrigerants
Meanwhile, eco-friendly refrigerants are also coming to the fore. These replace traditional chemicals, like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), believed to be partly responsible for increasing global temperatures. New alternatives such as carbon dioxide (CO2), ammonia and hydrofluoroolefins are now becoming more common, which have lesser impacts on atmospheric temperatures and pollution levels.
Regulations are driving many of these changes. For example, the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol is pushing businesses to modify the refrigerants they use in their systems faster, causing the industry to transition.
Conclusion: Investing in Industrial Air Conditioning for Long-Term Success
Ultimately, investing in industrial air conditioning is critical for long-term success. Doing it well can extend equipment life and boost staff productivity, benefiting everyone.
Do you require air conditioning at your industrial facility? If so, consult with Absolute Climate Solutions. We can help you identify tailored solutions that ensure long-term efficiency.