Stainless steel for HVAC systems

What is HVAC?

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, and the function is in the name! Temperature regulation and proper ventilation is vital in a number of industries that keep modern society functioning as we know it.

The above is a basic HVAC system - in a larger building or facility the system is more complicated but the heating and cooling components are the same.

Stainless steel is an ideal material for HVAC systems - keep reading and we’ll tell you why!

Why Stainless steel?

Stainless steel’s corrosion resistance makes it a perfect choice for both indoor and outdoor HVAC installations. Corrosive materials may enter the air from both the inside of the building, i.e. from manufacturing chemicals or acidic/salty food products; or outdoors, from pollution or high salinity coastal environments. Stainless steel is adept at resisting both these forms of corrosion, maintaining the HVAC system in great quality over many years, thanks to not only corrosion resistance but its excellent durability.

In addition, Stainless steel also resists moisture and condensation, which prevents the accumulation of harmful mould or mildew, absolutely vital for healthy air ventilation.

An investment in a Stainless steel system is great value in the long-term, as costly replacements are rare and likely aren’t required for decades. In terms of alternative materials - there is nothing really that stands up to the performance of Stainless steel for HVAC systems.

Which Grade of Stainless should I use?

HVAC products are generally made from Grade 304 or Grade 316 Stainless steel.

For general use where very corrosive materials aren’t present, Grade 304 is a strong and great value choice. Grade 316 has added Molybdenum, which makes it more resistant to chemicals including sulfuric acid, chlorides, bromides, iodides, and fatty acids, even at high temperatures.

Both are easy to fabricate and easy to clean, and can come in a variety of finishes and appearances to blend seamlessly into or aesthetically complement clean environments or commercial settings.

Industry uses

HVAC systems are vital across many sectors, not just for comfort but for maintaining the optimal conditions necessary for a variety of operations:

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
HVAC systems ensure precise temperature and humidity control to maintain the stability and efficacy of medications. This prevents degradation and ensures that pharmaceutical products meet safety and quality standards.

Food and Beverage Industry
HVAC systems help in maintaining the freshness and safety of food and beverages by preventing spoilage and contamination. Proper temperature and humidity control are crucial to avoid microbial growth and ensure the integrity of these products from production to consumption.
Data Centres
In the data storage industry, HVAC systems are critical for maintaining a consistent temperature to prevent the overheating of servers and other sensitive equipment. Additionally, they regulate humidity levels to avoid static discharge or condensation, which could damage the equipment. HVAC systems also filter the air to keep it dust-free, protecting sensitive electronics from particulates that could cause overheating or failure.
Hospitals
In hospitals, HVAC systems are crucial for maintaining a sterile and safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors. This includes Infection control through filtration and improved air quality, Temperature and humidity control, and positive air pressure to prevent pathogens entering clean rooms like operating theatres and negative pressure rooms to prevent pathogens escaping the room.
Shopping Centers
In shopping centres, HVAC systems are essential for creating a comfortable environment for shoppers and employees, as well as for maintaining the safety and integrity of the building and its contents.
Large Commercial Buildings
High Rises tend to use a whole building approach to HVAC instead of separate individual units, therefore an extensive system is required and essential for the comfort of a great number of people.

HVAC products at Stirlings

We supply Schedule 5 & Schedule 10 in particular for HVAC systems, from 150NB to 750NB from local stocks & larger on an indent basis. Whatever your requirements, our friendly team is here to help you. Want to discuss more, or make your order? Drop us a line here.

Customer example

This extensive HVAC system was installed by a valued customer using various Stainless steel components from Stirlings.

To sum it up

Overall, HVAC systems are indispensable in various industries for safeguarding both products and equipment, ensuring operational efficiency, and upholding quality standards.

Their role extends far beyond just providing comfort, highlighting their essential function in modern industry and technology.

A rhyme for your time

Need some Stainless for your HVAC? Come to Stirlings - you’ll never look back!