Industrial Ventilation
Gravity ventilation or natural ventilation is an air exhaust system that primarily relies on natural forces. With a gravity ventilation system, little to no energy is required to help keep interiors cool and comfortable. This type of ventilation can reduce indoor heat and improve indoor air quality. The best part about gravity ventilators is that they offer near-constant air exchange with fresh outdoor air, which is why they are perfect fits for:
- Power plants
- Steel mills
- Forges
- Warehouses
- Paper mills
How Gravity Ventilation Works
Gravity ventilation is the type of ventilation that was used in buildings before mechanical ventilation equipment was invented.
Wind is probably one of the natural elements used in gravity ventilation. Gravity ventilation systems use wind to keep temperatures cool and comfortable in your facility. This is done by assessing typical wind patterns and installing intake equipment on the side of the building that receives the most direct wind. There will also be a need for exhaust areas on the opposite side of the building that allows the wind to flow through the building and push out the warm indoor air.
Another thing that gravity ventilation systems take advantage of is thermal buoyancy. Hot, humid air is lighter than cool, dry air. Gravity ventilation systems allow hot air to rise and escape a building. As hot air leaves the space, cool air comes in to take its place to provide cool, fresh air for a comfortable environment.
Benefits of Gravity Ventilation Systems
There are several benefits of ventilation using gravity ventilation systems. For starters, gravity ventilation systems are great for industrial facilities where machinery and processes can increase indoor temperatures to uncomfortable and potentially hazardous levels. There is also the risk of released contaminants lowering the quality of the indoor air quality. With gravity ventilation systems, you can keep your environment comfortable and safe without using electricity. Other benefits of this air supply system include:
- Lower installation costs
- Low operating costs
- Less maintenance needed
- Reduced environmental impact of your facility
- Keep interiors cool regardless of power outages
What You Need for Gravity Ventilation
Not every building is suitable for gravity ventilation systems, no thanks to the local climate or the building’s design. Once your building is suitable for this type of ventilation system, you’d need a few things to achieve industrial ventilation.
Simple openings in the building’s envelope are one of such things. Modern louvers are another element. Other equipment you might need for a gravity ventilation system are a gravity ventilator and an industrial fan. The gravity ventilators allow hot air to escape while protecting your building from rain and debris entering through the roof’s opening. The industrial fans help to pull hot air out of your building.
Check Out Our Catalog Today!
At Eldrige, we understand the importance of custom design ventilation systems for industrial and commercial applications. Without a great ventilation design, your facilities can become unbearable for workers. And since satisfying your needs is why we are in business, we do our utmost to create a conducive work environment. Check out our catalog to explore the range of custom design industrial ventilation systems on offer.