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The importance of thermal management in Industrial HVAC systems

Alper is the warm heart of industrial refrigeration

It is a freezing winter morning. A technician is on the roof of an industrial building for extraordinary maintenance: in front of him extends a complex HVAC system, a refrigeration unit of hundreds of kilowatts, consisting of several industrial chillers, heat pumps, plate heat exchangers and scroll compressors. While the wind cuts through the skin and frost covers the hydronic pipes, the system seems to be regularly turned off. But an anomaly brought him back there: the compressor struggles to start. The liquid coolant migrated into the crankcase, threatening the integrity of the engine. It is in these moments that the importance of a well-designed compressor crankcase heater is appreciated, capable of preventing irreparable damage and costly plant downtime. In a technical and critical sector such as HVAC, the operational safety of refrigeration systems is a priority for designers and manufacturers of heat pumps, HVAC chillers and industrial refrigeration units.

Why antifreeze is not an option but an investment

When working with industrial chillers and refrigeration units for HVAC applications, neglecting the implementation of antifreeze systems can result in downtime, loss of energy efficiency and structural damage. The implementation of integrated heating systems becomes a strategic choice.

During periods of inactivity, the refrigerant tends to migrate inside the compressor. When restarted, this liquid presence can cause bearing stress and premature engine wear. Alper crankcase heaters are designed to bring the compressor during the startup phase at an appropriate temperature even in extreme environments. This kind of solution is especially in demand among developers of chillers and heat pumps in the HVAC industry, where efficiency, sustainability, and reliability are becoming ever more critical.

Brazed plate heat exchangers (BPHE), for example, are particularly vulnerable: the water inside them, if frozen, can expand and damage the plates.

In systems with condensate drain pans positioned under the air-cooled condenser coils, ice build-up can reduce heat exchange and compromise the operation of the entire system. To avoid this, it is essential to integrate reliable and intelligent heaters that can adapt to the needs of each configuration.

In addition, the entire range can be produced to be compatible with systems that use refrigerants such as propane (R290), meeting the latest environmental directives and HVAC regulations.

Choose the quality that protects the heart of your system, even in the most extreme climates

Alper heaters: technology for every application need

Alper heaters offer a concrete and high-performance answer. Polyester heaters, for example, are ideal for brazed plate heat exchangers applications: flexible, durable and easy to install, they distribute heat evenly and prevent the water from freezing.

For condensate drain pans, the heating cable on aluminium foil guarantees effective heat transmission even in the presence of ice, keeping water collection drain free.

The crankcase heaters developed by Alper are distinguished by a design aimed at protecting scroll compressors, especially during start-up. Built with high quality materials, they offer a homogeneous thermal distribution on the crankcase, contributing to safe startups and extending the lifespan of the entire system. In addition, it is possible to customize the size and voltage to adapt them to all types of compressors used in HVAC chillers and industrial heat pump systems.

Heating technology for efficient and protected HVAC

Each Alper heating element is designed with engineering attention that combines reliability, durability and performance.

The crankcase heaters are made of insulating materials with high dielectric strength and are designed for homogeneous heat distribution, reducing the risk of hot spots and keeping the temperature of the compressor crankcase stable. Temperature uniformity prevents coolant migration and protects internal mechanical parts during the start-up phase.

Polyester heaters, on the other hand, stand out for their versatility: thanks to their flexible construction and the possibility of customization, they can be perfectly adapted to the complex geometries of brazed plate heat exchangers. They offer excellent mechanical resistance and are equipped with self-adhesive that guarantees perfect adhesion to surfaces.

Finally, heaters made of heating cable on aluminium foil are the ideal choice for areas exposed to humidity or persistent frost, such as condensate drain pans. Alper heating elements ensure continuity of service even in the coldest climates, maintaining the efficiency of the HVAC system and preventing unexpected blockages.