IoT for energy-efficient, cost-effective HVAC systems

March 1, 2023 6:34 pm

We expect the HVAC industry to demonstrate positive trends in 2023, driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems and a growing focus on indoor air quality.
HVAC industry outlook for 2023
We expect the HVAC industry in India in 2023 to show positive trends, driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems and a growing focus on indoor air quality. The growth of the construction industry and the rising number of smart homes and commercial buildings will drive the demand for advanced HVAC solutions. Additionally, the government’s initiatives to promote sustainability and energy efficiency in the building sector should provide further growth opportunities for the HVAC industry. However, economic conditions, competition from foreign brands, and environmental regulations may impact the industry’s growth.
Manufacturing activities
Libratherm was established in 1991 as an indigenous brand to cater to the temperature control needs of the Indian industry. In its humble beginnings, Libratherm manufactured PID temperature controllers and Ramp/Soak Profile controllers. Innovation and quality were the key driving factors that enabled Libratherm to become an industry-wide supplier of 200+ products to support the process control industry. Our products include temperature and process control instruments, Thyristor power controllers, Signal transmitters and isolators, temperature and humidity sensors and indicators, data loggers, and temperature control panels. Today, Libratherm’s in-house design and development team continually improve the market offerings, supported by a manufacturing facility to fulfil the industry’s demand.
Future for data loggers, temperature controllers and digital indicators
We expect the market for data loggers, temperature controllers and digital indicators to grow in the future, driven by the increasing demand for these products in various industries, such as manufacturing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and HVAC. Data loggers, temperature controllers, and digital indicators are crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of products and processes across various industries. For instance, data loggers monitor temperature and other environmental conditions – while transporting perishable goods, such as food and pharmaceuticals. In addition, these devices maintain these goods within a specific temperature range. Similarly, temperature controllers are essential to precisely control HVAC systems and other manufacturing processes for optimal performance and efficiency. The rise in demand for automation, precise temperature control, and efficient data management systems will drive the growth of this market. Additionally, the increasing need for energy efficiency, cost savings, and technological advancements will likely provide further growth opportunities for these products.

IoT for remote monitoring
IoT modules for remote monitoring have been increasingly significant in automating the HVAC industry. These modules allow real-time monitoring of HVAC systems from a remote location, enabling quick and efficient maintenance and troubleshooting. By installing IoT modules in HVAC systems, building managers can monitor the performance of their systems from anywhere, at any time. It allows them to quickly identify issues that may arise and take appropriate action before they become significant problems. In addition, the IoT modules collect data from sensors and send it to a cloud-based platform for analysis and visualisation, making it possible to track the performance of HVAC systems and identify potential problems before they become significant issues.
Building managers can then use this data to track the performance of their systems, identify inefficiencies, and make informed decisions to improve their HVAC systems. IoT modules in HVAC systems increase energy efficiency and cost savings.
Automated HVAC systems connected to IoT modules can be programmed to adjust their settings based on real-time data, such as room temperature and occupancy levels. These can lead to more efficient energy usage and significant cost savings.
Automated HVAC systems can improve overall performance, leading to a longer life span and reducing the need for manual intervention. IoT modules can also enhance the comfort levels of building occupants. By collecting and analysing real-time data, IoT modules can help ensure that HVAC systems operate optimally, providing a comfortable indoor environment. Furthermore, building managers can use this data to adjust their HVAC systems to ensure the comfort of occupants, even when they are not present.
Automation for warehouses, cold storage and cold chain logistics
Temperature and humidity control automation can significantly benefit cold storage facilities, warehouses, and cold chain logistics. Some of the benefits include:
• Improved product quality and safety: Automated temperature and humidity control systems can ensure that perishable products, such as food and pharmaceuticals, are stored at the optimal temperature and humidity levels. This reduces the risk of spoilage and contamination.
• Energy efficiency: Automated temperature control systems can improve energy efficiency by reducing the energy required to maintain the desired temperature and humidity levels, thereby reducing costs and environmental impact.
• Increased operational efficiency: Automated temperature and humidity control systems can reduce manual labour and minimise the need for constant monitoring, allowing for more efficient use of resources and increased productivity.
• Better inventory management: Automated temperature and humidity control systems can provide real-time data on conditions within the storage facilities, enabling better inventory management and reducing the risk of product loss.
Using temperature and humidity control automation in cold storage facilities, warehouses, and cold chain logistics can improve product quality, reduce costs, increase operational efficiency, and promote better inventory management.
New developments
Libratherm is constantly striving to improve its products and services for its customers. However, the latest developments are no exception. From innovative technologies to cutting-edge products and services, we design these new developments to enhance our customers’ experience with us. For example, we have redesigned our compact 3-Phase Thyristor Power Controller to best suit the needs of the HVAC industry. With improved 3-phase thyristor firing control, a smaller footprint, and improved cooling, the POW-12 thyristor power controller will enhance the operational capabilities of AHU and De-humidifiers.
In addition, we have upgraded our temperature-humidity controllers to incorporate the latest microcontroller to provide precise and reliable measurement and control. Libratherm’s continuous innovation in IoT modules for remote monitoring and control offers a WiFi-enabled solution to gather data. This data is utilised for building automation devices anywhere in the world.
Complete with a web app and data services, Libratherm becomes a one-stop solution for integrating IoT devices in your building automation. In addition, Libratherm EMS solution is a ready-to-use, 21 CFR Part 11 compliant software for all monitoring needs. The latest feature of this software is a digital alarm annunciator allowing you to create a virtual alarm system without the hassles of physical devices and cabling overheads. Our dedicated team of experts provides the best possible solutions that meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Digitalisation of Inspection and monitoring instruments 
To digitalise the HVAC sector, advancements in inspection and monitoring instruments may include:
• Smart sensors: To monitor temperature, humidity, and other environmental variables in real-time, smart sensors that can communicate with other digital systems are required.
• Predictive maintenance: Tools that can analyse data from sensors and predict when maintenance or repair is needed can significantly improve the efficiency of HVAC systems. Developing predictive maintenance algorithms and models to anticipate and prevent HVAC failures would reduce downtime and improve system reliability.
• Remote monitoring systems: Remotely monitored HVAC systems can increase efficiency and reduce downtime by allowing technicians to detect and address issues before they become significant problems.
• Augmented and virtual reality technologies can provide technicians with immersive training, support, and virtual walkthroughs of HVAC systems for maintenance and repair purposes.
• Mobile apps and cloud-based platforms: Mobile apps and cloud-based platforms can provide real-time access to HVAC system data and allow for remote monitoring and control.
• Wireless connectivity: The ability to remotely monitor and control HVAC systems using wireless technology would increase efficiency and accuracy significantly.
• Real-time data: Inspection and monitoring instruments that provide real-time data would allow faster and more accurate problem-solving and decision-making.
• Artificial intelligence: Integrating artificial intelligence into inspection and monitoring instruments would improve the accuracy of data analysis and decision-making accuracy.
• Interoperability: The development of standards for data exchange between different HVAC systems and instruments would improve the integration and interoperability of HVAC systems.
• Miniaturisation: The miniaturisation of inspection and monitoring instruments would allow for easier and more efficient deployment in HVAC systems, reducing the costs and time associated with installations.