ENERGY SAVING
What do we monitor and why?
Real-time corrosion monitoring focuses on the parameters that can be indicative of corrosive conditions, essentially stopping corrosion before it even starts. These factors are: ■ Pressure: Maintaining proper system pressure is crucial to preventing oxygen ingress, the primary cause of corrosion. Keeping a system pressurised and airtight minimizes the risk of air entering pipework.
consumption. Projections indicate that the electricity demand for cooling could more than triple by 2050. Corrosion in HVAC systems can exacerbate this
problem. Corroded pipework impairs the effi ciency of heating and cooling plants, forcing equipment to work harder and consume more power to achieve desired temperatures. Research suggests that up to 50% of commercial buildings may suff er from undiagnosed HVAC issues, with ineffi ciencies contributing to as much as 40% of a building’s total energy use.
By monitoring system conditions in real time, building operators can address ineffi ciencies stemming from corrosion or blockages promptly, ensuring that systems operate at peak performance. This leads to tangible energy savings, lower operational costs, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions—key steps toward a sustainable future.
Reduced site visits and maintenance costs: Another compelling advantage of real-time monitoring is its ability to minimise the need for on-site inspections. Data from monitoring devices can be accessed remotely from any internet- enabled device, allowing maintenance teams to schedule targeted interventions rather than relying on reactive or routine site visits. Alerts are sent automatically when critical thresholds are exceeded, enabling swift action before minor issues escalate into emergencies. This approach can lead to fewer site visits, translating to lower fuel consumption and emissions from travel, aligning with broader sustainability targets. Data gathered through monitoring allows for smarter resource allocation, enabling teams to prioritise areas requiring immediate attention while
maintaining overall system health. Additionally, the integration of monitoring with other smart building technologies creates opportunities for further optimisation.
Clarity and accountability in complex systems: In urban environments, buildings often consist of mixed-use spaces or are repurposed for diverse tenants. In such environments, responsibility for HVAC repairs and maintenance can become a legal and fi nancial grey area. With multiple businesses sharing the same infrastructure, disputes over costs and accountability are not uncommon. Real-time monitoring provides an invaluable layer of transparency in these situations. Continuous records of key system parameters establish an evidence-based framework for determining when and why issues occur. Out-of- spec readings can be linked to specifi c events or interventions, off ering clarity and enabling fair cost allocation among tenants.
For facilities managers, cumulative data from monitoring systems serves as an accurate and reliable foundation for planning long-term maintenance strategies. The ability to maintain effi cient HVAC systems
translates into lower energy bills, reduced carbon footprints, and improved tenant satisfaction. For urban planners and policymakers, widespread adoption of this technology can help mitigate the growing energy demands of cities and contribute to achieving Net Zero targets. And, by extending the lifespan of HVAC
infrastructure and minimising waste from premature replacements, this technology supports positive whole-life costing and more generally, the responsible use of materials.
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■ Oxygen: Oxygen is a direct catalyst for corrosion and creates an environment where bacteria and pathogens can thrive. This can result in Microbial Induced Corrosion (MIC) and contamination issues. Monitoring dissolved oxygen levels alongside system pressure is essential for eff ective corrosion control.
■ Conductivity: Conductivity measures the ability of water to conduct electricity, which underpins the electrochemical reactions responsible for corrosion. High conductivity levels increase the likelihood of these reactions occurring, highlighting the importance of consistent monitoring.
■ pH Levels: The pH of the system water refl ects its acidity or alkalinity, which is critical for controlling corrosion rates. Sudden system depressurisation often disrupts pH balance, underscoring the need for regular checks.
■ Temperature: Temperature plays a dual role in corrosion risk. High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions, increasing corrosion rates, while low to moderate temperatures may encourage bacterial growth. further compounding the problem.
■ Loss of fl ow/stagnancy: Stagnant water caused by low fl ow rates creates conditions that promote biofi lm formation and bacterial growth. Dissolved oxygen in stagnant areas can escape from the water, forming air pockets and increasing corrosion risk. Low fl ow rates can also reduce the eff ectiveness of chemical inhibitors and biocides.
www.acr-news.com • January 2025 21
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