Both commercial and residential air conditioning systems serve the same role, heat, cool, and ventilate the targeted areas. However, industrial air conditioning does the job on a much larger scale. Their mechanism and parts also vary. If you run an industrial system or are planning to start one, here is all that you need to know about HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems.

What Do Industrial Air Conditioners Do?

Industrial air conditioning keeps the temperatures of the facility at the recommended levels. For example, they can help maintain the temperature range around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considered comfortable for staff at work. In addition, they help to keep the indoor humidity at around 50% and air quality with carbon dioxide no more than 1,000PPM. Here is the primary operational design of most HVAC systems: 

• Air conditioners help to keep the temperatures low by expelling hot air via water-cooled systems. 
• Heating systems do the opposite of air conditioners, using radiator coils, gas, or water to heat the air. 
• Industrial ventilation systems rely on fans to circulate air and pass it via filtration systems.

Industrial vs. Residential Air Conditioning 

When buying industrial air conditioning systems, it is also crucial to understand how they differ from the residential modes. Here are some of the main differences: 

• Size: As you would anticipate, commercial systems are more extensive compared to residential modes. You will also note they have different condenser fans, evaporators, compressors, dampers and blowers. 
• Drainage: In standard AC units, you might find just one drain tray, but an industrial one features multiple pipes to collect condensation. 
• Operating mechanism: Well, this depends on the system structure and its location. In most cases, residential HVAC systems are stand-alone, but industrial systems are modular. 
• Equipment: Industrial air conditioning systems tend to be massive and customized for more efficient cooling or heating. So, select the HVAC system that can comfortably condition your entire facility. If one is not enough, you might want to consider a more advanced system or use several.

Categories of Industrial HVAC Systems

There are a number of HVAC systems that you can use for your industrial facility. Make sure to factor in things such as energy efficiency, costs, design, and performance. Also, we recommend selecting the model that can be connected with additional add-ons for better control and automation. So, here are the main types of HVAC systems that you can use for your facility:

Single-Split System

These are the most popular HVAC systems, especially in small industrial establishments. The system features a combination of air conditioners that passes air via refrigerant lines and moves it through air ducts. If you have a small manufacturing unit, perhaps with a few motors and conveyor belts for the parking line, this HVAC system would be okay. If you want to control the air conditioning for individual spaces, you might need a separate outdoor unit.

Multiple-Split System

If your industrial facility has many separate sections, such as machine areas, warehouses, and packaging areas, a more advanced HVAC system, such as a multiple-split system, would be the better option. It comes with a smaller outdoor footprint and better energy efficiency. The main challenge of using a multi-split system is that it can be more complicated to install.

Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF)

This air conditioning system works best if you are dealing with a complex industrial establishment. Think of an industrial facility with mixed buildings, including offices, sales units, production sections, and storage areas that require air conditioning. The most impressive thing about them is that VFD technology uses sensors that make it possible to use the same HVAC but vary the air condition for different areas.

Conclusion 

If you want your industrial facility to be more productive, it is vital to ensure it is safe and healthy for your staff. Using HVAC systems can help you to maintain air quality, employee health, and quality assurance in line with Occupational Safety and Health Act.