Challenges of heating steel halls

Steel halls are characterized by their large floor space and height, generally their volume is much larger than that of residential or office buildings, which means that traditional heating methods may not be efficient enough.

• Heat loss in a steel hall: The metal structure of the hall is a conductor of heat, which can lead to heat loss, heat can also be lost, for example, through thermal bridges with improperly made thermal insulation, frequent opening of gates, doors, lack of air curtains.
• Heating costs in a steel hall: Maintaining an optimal temperature in large spaces can generate significant costs.
• Even heat distribution: Traditional heating systems often fail to provide even heating in rooms with large volumes, which can lead to localized temperature differences.

At HalMod we know how to reduce the impact of these factors on thermal insulation parameters – our experienced designers know how to deal with such challenges. In order to maximize the heating of the hall and reduce possible heat losses, it is advisable to make all decisions about heating and thermal insulation already at the design stage.

Heating systems in a steel hall – which ones to choose?

Choosing the right heating system for a steel hall depends on many factors, such as the size of the hall, its purpose, the level of thermal insulation and local climatic conditions. Below are the most popular heating systems used in steel halls.

1.Blow heating in a steel hall

Blow heating, or air heating, with the use of a ventilation system allows even large areas to be heated quickly, and the heat is effectively distributed throughout the hall space. The disadvantage of this solution is the high cost of operation with continuous operation, as well as the possible circulation of dust/dust. Hall blow heating is often used in large-area halls where other heating systems may fail.

2. infrared radiators for heating the steel hall

Radiant heaters emit heat in the form of infrared radiation, which directly heats objects and surfaces within the range of radiation. Radiant heaters are useful in heating selected zones in the hall, instead of the entire space, which translates into greater energy efficiency. Their disadvantage, of course, is the limited heating range and the need for proper planning of the placement of equipment.

3. condensing boilers for heating the steel hall

Furnaces that use fuel combustion (gas, oil) to heat water, which is then distributed through the heating system (e.g., radiators, underfloor heating).

The advantage of such a system is undoubtedly the high energy efficiency due to condensing technology, as well as the possibility of using different types of fuel depending on the availability of utilities in the area. For the installation of the furnace, of course, it is necessary to have a suitable chimney and ventilation system, and you also need to keep in mind the need for regular maintenance of the device. The cost of the heating installation is high, but in the long run this type of heating is a fairly economical solution.

4. heat pumps for heating the steel hall

Heat pumps use energy from the environment (air, water, ground) to heat a space. They can operate on both air and water heating principles. Their undoubted advantages include high energy efficiency and environmental performance, as well as long-term savings on operating costs. Downsides include the high initial cost of installation, which, however, in some cases can be offset by subsidies. Heat pumps are gaining popularity as a heating source in modern and environmentally friendly developments.

5. air curtains

An air curtain in a steel hall does not, in principle, provide a source of heating, but it is an installation that allows a significant reduction in heat loss. The air curtain reduces the escape of warm air from the hall when gates and doors are opened.

Thermal insulation materials in a steel hall

Efficient heating of steel halls requires modern thermal insulation solutions to ensure energy efficiency and comfort.

In practice, modern sandwich panels are used for housing halls that require heating and heat retention. Their cores are made of materials such as polystyrene, mineral wool or polyurethane (PUR) foam provide excellent insulation properties. PUR foam in particular has excellent insulating properties, and is durable, lightweight and weatherproof.

Sandwich panels as thermal insulation of a steel hall

Sandwich panels used as cladding for the walls and roof of steel halls are a modern thermal insulation solution, combining the functions of thermal and structural insulation. They consist of a thermal insulation core surrounded on both sides by cladding. The high insulation performance of sandwich panels significantly reduces heat loss. Panels with polyurethane (PUR) foam core offer the best thermal conductivity coefficient (λ), which translates into lower heating costs.

The popularity of sandwich panels is also due to their ease and speed of installation, which allows a significant reduction in construction time and costs. In addition, their modular design allows easy replacement of damaged components.