Monitoring & metering
thankfully equipment exists to help building and facilities managers.
Pioneering technologies
State-of-the-art technology that ensures the safe and efficient use of HVAC and refrigeration systems is constantly being developed. Building and facilities teams now have access to innovative tools to help them meet their obligations. These technologies do not just help with gas leaks, which are the biggest cause of energy loss, inefficient cold store performance and product degradation, but also with the detrimental effects of poor temperature control. The latest thermometers and temperature
displays, for example, enable the monitoring and optimisation of refrigeration systems so that they function at the optimal temperature for the specific items they store. Should any
temperature anomalies occur, the system will alert staff so that spoilage can be prevented. Open door alarms bring similar benefits. The most advanced of these appliances are
compact yet sophisticated detection systems which are designed to provide cold storage facilities with maximum storage space. These offer a valuable advantage for the 75 per cent of warehouse operators that are concerned about the lack of available space. Innovation is also to be found in safety
equipment. New gas detection systems can be configured to detect an array of both toxic and non-toxic gases, including HFCs. Audio and visual alarms have also been developed that alert staff members to any sensed gas leak. These feature coloured LEDs that indicate the presence and status of each gas sensor, ensuring problems can be swiftly rectified. New products have also been developed to
cover the A2L refrigerants in harsher environments, while the safety of staff has been improved by the development of trapped personnel alarms. HVAC systems remain one of the largest
energy consumers in many commercial facilities, making them prime targets for improving energy efficiency and reducing operating costs. Even though systems can vary, by concentrating on the most common HVAC energy wasters such as refrigerant gas leaks, temperature control and equipment management, operators can maximise energy savings and ensure energy efficiency. If sufficiently serious, those who
deliberately allow a gas to escape may face a criminal prosecution instead of being ordered to pay a civil penalty. Fines of up to £100,000
Instrumentation Monthly November 2021
apply for less serious offences, for example contravening procedures for minimising emissions or if non-certified individuals are found to be handling F-gases. Even the most sophisticated devices on
the market have a return on investment period of just two years, therefore installing technology to monitor leaks in cold storage offers a simple yet effective solution for operators in any sector. Despite coming a long way since the early
days of volatile, toxic and dangerous coolant gases, such as ammonia and methyl chloride, there are still risks present to individuals and the environment. When modern day refrigerants are managed in a controlled environment such as a closed system of tubes and coils, these gases can provide effective climate control, and when coupled with the right safety and monitoring equipment they can operate at their most efficient level.
embracing the value of technology
Innovative monitoring and alert solutions can add immense value to any organisation as it can not only drive significant improvements in safety, but it can also play a key role in enhancing business efficiency and productivity overall. In addition to reducing energy consumption, minimising carbon emissions, and preventing breaches in regulatory compliance, these solutions enable companies to prevent safety incidents that can harm employee safety, confidence, and productivity.
Stonegate Instruments
www.stonegate-instruments.com
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