Radiant heating - function, types and applications
Heating industrial and event halls economically and flexibly: radiant heaters are ideally suited for this job. An overview of function, types and possible applications.
Everyone is familiar with classic heaters that heat indoor air by convection - white panel radiators with internal heat baffles that have provided indirect heat to millions of homes and offices via hot water and air for decades. Far less well known: Radiant heaters, also called heat wave heaters. Their operating principle differs fundamentally from that of classic radiators. Water and air play no role in heat transfer.
Instead, radiant heaters transmit electromagnetic infrared heat radiation directly to floors, walls, objects and people. A principle similar to solar radiation. Even when the ambient temperature is cool, the sensation is pleasantly warm. And users save energy. But how do radiant heaters actually work? And what types are there?
Radiant heaters: What distinguishes a light radiator
Radiant heaters do not work with a transfer medium such as water, which is heated centrally, but generate heating energy directly in or on a radiating component. Here the heaters are divided into two groups: Light radiators and dark radiators. In light radiators, a fuel gas mixed with the combustion air burns on a high-temperature-resistant, perforated ceramic plate. The burner surface heats up to temperatures between 750 °C and 950 °C. The plate glows visibly. The plate glows visibly - hence the name bright burner - and emits infrared radiation to the surroundings. As soon as the radiation hits solid bodies, it is transformed into heat. The exhaust gases produced by this open combustion usually escape into the open air with the room air. Sufficient ventilation is correspondingly important, realized for example with ceiling fans.
Characteristics of dark radiators
The second type of radiant heaters: Dark radiators, today usually called infrared radiators. They also belong to the decentralized hall heating systems, which combine heat generation and heat transfer in one device. It is true that their physical principle is identical to that of the light radiators. However, their mode of operation is different.
Dark radiators do not work with open combustion, but with pipes, usually in a U-shape. A combustion gas, usually natural gas, flows through these tubes at a temperature of up to 800 °C - a suction blower at the end of the tube generates the vacuum needed to transport the combustion gas. A burner burns the natural gas. The average surface temperature of 250 °C to 500 °C is approximately the same along the entire length of the pipe. A reflector finally directs the infrared radiation from the tubes into the heating area.
Why the name dark radiator is outdated from a technical point of view
In contrast to light radiators, the term dark radiator used to refer to a non-glowing heating surface. But today, in the high-performance class of dark radiators, there are also devices with glowing tubes. Why then do they not belong to the light radiators? Because they do not work with an open, but with a closed combustion. Therefore, the name infrared radiator seems more appropriate.
The great advantage of closed combustion is that users can discharge exhaust gases through pipes in a controlled manner. And if desired, the residual heat can be passed on to a heat exchanger, e.g. to heat offices via a classic hydraulic heating system.
By the way, a small digression: It doesn't always have to be natural gas. Electric radiators are a special form of radiant heating. They do not rely on the combustion of a fuel, but on a current flow in an electric resistance. However, electric radiators do not usually play a role in heating hall buildings - they are more likely to be used for baby changing tables or for heating benches and tables in beer gardens.
This is the difference between radiant ceiling panels
Radiant ceiling panels also work with thermal radiation - heating elements in the form of profiled strips of sheet steel with welded-in tubes. Hot water flows through the tubes, tempering the radiant surfaces so that they emit thermal radiation. Radiant ceiling panels can also heat large halls in an energy-efficient manner. Because of their low temperature, radiant ceiling panels require very large areas on the ceilings and therefore a relatively large amount of space. In addition, as an activator, hot water is a fairly inert medium. Temperature changes and adjustments of the heating operation to a dynamic daily routine can therefore not be realized as quickly as with gas-powered radiant heating systems.
Radiant heaters are predestined for use in industrial halls.
Why? Because halls with ceiling heights of several meters have a gigantic volume. And only a small part of about 20 percent is the usable area - usually 2.5 meters above the floor. The problem is that it is difficult to heat this area efficiently using conventional convection. This is because warm air does not stay in one place, but always rises - to where no one needs it. A physical principle that is incorruptible and causes hall operators a great deal of heat loss. In addition, warm air currents cause dust turbulence and unpleasant drafts in halls.
Negative aspects that speak in favor of decentralized infrared hall heating systems.
As already mentioned, they enable the targeted heating of the desired area of a hall. Thus, where people work, it is pleasantly warm, while in the upper layers of air it remains cool. Even when doors and gates open and close frequently. This is not the only energy-saving advantage.
The heat from infrared heaters is also available immediately, since no reaction-carrying detour via heat-conducting media such as water and air is necessary. This means that even rooms that normally remain cold can be heated efficiently for short periods of use. For example, storage rooms that employees rarely enter. Since no drafts are generated during heating, dust pollution is also reduced. This makes infrared systems ideal for allergy sufferers and a generally more pleasant and healthier hall atmosphere.
Save up to 70 percent energy with infrared heaters
However, infrared heaters not only make it possible to heat cold rooms quickly and at short notice. Operators can also divide huge hall spaces into several heating zones. They don't have to set a standard temperature, but can, for example, heat less near the waste heat from machines and equipment, and more in the storage area. This way, all employees get the perfect feel-good temperature. Without wasting energy.
If users also network the heaters with intelligent controls and analysis software, they can continuously monitor and optimize all parameters of heating operation. The bottom line is enormous cost savings. Compared to conventional convection systems, hall operators generally save between 30 and 50 percent, and depending on the project, up to 70 percent energy.
St. Pauli: Fish auction hall warms guests with infrared heaters and saves around 50 percent on energy costs
Radiant heaters are not only used in industrial halls, however. Word of their advantages has long since spread to the event industry. The heating systems can now also be found at concerts, art exhibitions or corporate events that take place in unusual locations - for example, in old fish factories or heating plants. For example, in the old fish auction hall at the St. Pauli fish market.
Infrared heaters from KÜBLER provide pleasant warmth on the stage as well as at tables, benches and food stalls in the 103-meter-long and 23-meter-wide hall, which is eleven meters high at the dome. In contrast, the thousands of cubic meters of air above the usage area remain cool. Without bothering anyone. On the contrary. Operators save up to 50 percent in energy costs compared to classic warm-air heating systems.
HALL HEATING: 6 HEATING SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE
Warm air, panel heating or rather infrared? A wide variety of heating systems are available for heating halls. Depending on the requirements, one is more suitable, the other less. This article will give you an initial overview of the six most relevant systems for industrial and commercial halls and how they work.
Getting started - the difference between centralized and decentralized systems
Systems for heating halls are divided into centralized and decentralized systems. Centralized systems require a separate boiler room where heat is generated. This heat is then conducted to the heating devices, where it heats the heating medium conducted in it, which in turn provides heat for heating. This process is also known as "indirect heating." However, part of the heat is already lost through the transport. Decentralized systems, on the other hand, use the primary energy directly in the usable space or the heating unit itself, which first generates the heat where the employees need it. They do not require a separate boiler room, are more flexible and can be used more quickly.
Warm air heating of halls: You have these options
The basic principle behind warm air heating systems is very simple and quickly explained: a fan directs warm air into a room and heats it in this way. If you want to rely on warm air to heat halls, you have two options:
DECENTRALIZED HEAT SUPPLY VIA WARM AIR GENERATORS
In the case of direct-fired warm air generators, the burner generates the heat directly in a decentralized manner. By means of a heat exchanger, air drawn in on the secondary side is then heated and blown into the hall.
When heating halls with the help of warm air generators, room air-dependent and room air-independent modes of operation can be used. This means that the unit either draws in fresh air or heats the air from the hall itself. The latter is particularly practical. After all, since warm air is known to rise, the air in the working or floor area tends to be colder. Room-air-dependent warm-air heaters feed precisely this cool air back into the warm-air generator, thus providing a supply. Room-air-independent units, on the other hand, often additionally use the heat of the exhaust duct to heat the air supplied from outside.
CENTRAL HEATING OF HALLS WITH AN AIR HEATER
Indirectly heated air heaters, also called air heaters, do not heat the air themselves. Rather, a separate boiler or central heating system is connected here, which heats the heat exchanger externally. The air heater also draws in air and then passes it over the heat exchanger, which heats it. Then the warm air can be blown into the hall or distributed through air ducts. If you want to use an air heater to heat halls, you should again consider convection and plan accordingly for warm air recirculation or ceiling fans.
Surface heating systems for heating halls
Basically, you can install panel heating in the floor, ceiling or walls. Underfloor heating is probably the most common, but the system behind it is basically the same. For underfloor heating, thin pipes are laid in the floor in a snake-like pattern covering the entire area when the hall is built. Underfloor heating can also be installed later in an additional screed layer.
To heat halls, an externally heated heating medium (e.g. water) is passed through these pipes. The heat generated in this way can be felt directly in the floor and is only slowly released into the room, but remains there for a while even if the heating is switched off for a short time.
Please note with this heating system that too deep anchoring of shelves or machines can damage the heating hoses.
Not to forget: The radiant heating systems
When heating halls via radiant heat, a distinction is made between light and dark radiators. In addition, there are the ceiling radiant panels.
RADIANT CEILING PANELS
Also known as "hot water ceiling radiant panel," this system uses pipes welded to a metal plate directly under the ceiling. Similar to underfloor heating, hot water heated by an external heat generator flows through these tubes, transferring heat to the entire structure. A radiant panel then conducts the heat down into the room, where it raises the surface temperatures of all surfaces.
You should place an insulation layer between the ceiling and the radiant ceiling panel to reduce heat loss upward. If you want to use radiant ceiling panels to heat halls, you should also plan for a large heating area of about 15-20% of the ceiling area.
DARK RADIATORS FOR EFFICIENT HEATING OF HALLS
Dark radiators, also known as black radiators, are a variant of infrared radiant heating systems. In this case, halls are heated decentrally by individual units that use a burner to produce a long flame in a radiant tube. The energy source is usually natural or liquid gas, but biogas and hydrogen also have potential for the future.
Reflectors on the radiant tube direct the heat generated in the form of infrared radiation into the areas to be heated. There, this only provides heat when it hits the enclosure and surfaces of objects or people - similar to the sun. The decisive advantage of radiant heating of this type is therefore that no warm air physically rises under the ceiling and must be returned.
LIGHT RADIATORS: HEAT GENERATION VIA CERAMICS
Light radiators work in a similar way to dark radiators. A gas-air mixture is burned on ceramic plates, generating heat and emitting infrared radiation. Here, too, reflectors direct the rays specifically into the working area. The fundamental difference, however, is in the combustion process. In the case of bright radiators, combustion takes place openly - and thus the exhaust gases initially remain in the room. Indirect discharge of the exhaust gases is therefore necessary. Anyone who relies on bright radiator systems to heat halls must therefore ensure adequate ventilation.
What is particularly worthwhile for heating halls?
Which heating system is the right choice for you depends entirely on your usage profile and your economic requirements. For room heights of 4 meters and more, however, infrared dark radiators are recommended at this point, as they are particularly well designed for the physical characteristics of halls and are characterized by comparatively low investment costs with high efficiency, flexibility and operational reliability. Let us talk about it in a personal meeting - or use our configurator to find out which heating system is best suited for your object!
Heating with infrared radiant heaters: These facts you should know!
A new heating system for your company's production is a decision that needs to be carefully considered. After all, it's not just about warm halls. There is much more to it than that:
- Saving heating costs sensibly
- Increase energy efficiency
- Create thermal comfort at the workplace
- Ensure operational flexibility and
- Meet environmental and legal requirements
Are you thinking about whether infrared radiant heaters are the right choice? Then these following facts should make your decision easier!
How infrared dark radiators work
Before we get into the hard facts, let's first clarify two basic questions and clear up common misconceptions. What are radiant heaters and what distinguishes infrared dark radiators from bright radiators?
Many answers you find on the Internet about this are not very enlightening or are simply nonsense. What is correct is that both light and dark radiators are radiant heaters, since in their case heat transfer is almost exclusively by infrared radiation. For this purpose, natural gas or liquid gas are usually used as energy sources. However, biogas or hydrogen, e.g. from regenerative sources, also have great potential for the future.
Dark radiators use closed combustion in a pipe system. Light radiators work with open combustion. The main difference is therefore in the way the combustion exhaust gases are handled: With light emitters, these initially remain in the hall atmosphere. For this reason, sufficient ventilation must be provided for these systems. In the case of infrared dark radiators, the exhaust air is discharged to the outside via an exhaust system - without polluting the hall atmosphere. This is why the use of dark radiators is the preferred choice in most applications today.
In both systems, the heat generated is directed as infrared radiation into the areas to be heated. Similar to solar radiation, heat is generated as soon as the infrared rays hit bodies or objects. Thus, among other things, the hall floor, the room frame and the people in the working area are heated directly.
The special thing about it: Dark radiators heat by their infrared radiation thus no ambient air, but only directly that, which is to be really heated. Thus there is also practically no warm air, which rises physically conditioned under the hall roof, instead of remaining in the work area. This is precisely the decisive advantage of infrared radiators in terms of efficiency.
No hot air - no air movement
You can't make an omelet without breaking eggs. Or a lot of dust is created. This dust is stirred up by conventional hot-air heating systems often used in halls. This is a problem in many companies, but it can be easily counteracted with infrared dark radiators. These heat no air and therefore no draught can arise or dust can be stirred up. For your employees and visitors, this means a healthy, dust- and draft-free working atmosphere.
Infrared dark radiators heat particularly efficiently
Let's stay briefly with warm air heaters, which are commonly used in industrial and commercial halls. Simple physics quickly makes it clear that these are not particularly efficient for heating large halls: After all, the heated air rises straight up. To ensure that it is warm not only under the roof but also in the actual usable zone of the hall, the air must be continuously reheated. If the hall door is constantly open or the hall is outdated and insufficiently insulated, this results in an enormous waste of energy and money.
Infrared dark radiators, on the other hand, only heat the objects and bodies they hit - as already described. And if no warm air is produced, no warm air can escape. In addition, the operation of dark radiators can be flexibly adapted to a wide variety of situations that arise when working in halls by means of an appropriately intelligent control system:
- Door opening times
- Working and shift times
- Different usable zones of the hall, in which different amounts of heat are also required
Infrared radiant heaters are therefore particularly efficient. Expressed in clear figures: they consume up to 70 % less energy than conventional systems. Modern infrared radiant heaters are therefore currently the most efficient heating systems for industrial and commercial buildings. And this means that you not only recoup the initial costs quickly, but also do something good for the environment.
No need to worry about GEG & Co.: Even high efficiency requirements can be safely met by modern infrared dark radiators.
Speaking of environmental protection: Those who have not taken care of efficient heating systems and other energy-saving measures in their halls in recent years are increasingly being forced into action. In order to achieve the goals of the Climate Protection Plan 2050, the legislator is calling for the economical use of energy in various ways. Important here for Germany, for example, are
- the GEG - Building Energy Act (since 01.11.2020) and
- the CO2 tax (since 01.01.2021).
And as far as energy management certifications are concerned: Anyone who wants to fulfill the audits according to the then valid stricter DIN EN ISO 50001 (2018) after mid-2021 must also fulfill increasing efficiency requirements here.
The GEG, which summarizes the previous complex energy saving laws, demands among other things the increased use of regenerative energy sources. The fact that infrared dark radiators run on gas seems to contradict this. Or?
No, on the contrary. This widespread misconception arose due to misleading wording in the old legislation and still causes some uncertainty. But the fact is: modern infrared dark radiators have always been used in compliance with the law due to their high energy efficiency - in new buildings as well as in renovations. In the GEG, this high efficiency is now increasingly recognized by exempting decentrally heated halls with room heights of more than four meters from the obligation to use regenerative energies. In addition, gas as an energy source not only has a good primary energy factor. Gas is the technology of the future with great potential as soon as power-to-gas, i.e. the production of hydrogen, becomes available in large-scale industrial processes. So gas-fired infrared dark radiators will remain the gold standard for energy-efficient heating of hall buildings in the future. And that pays off in the truest sense of the word.
Dark radiators are an investment that pays off. Right from the start.
One mistake that is made particularly frequently when planning hall heating systems is a failure to look at the big picture. The new devices should be as inexpensive as possible in terms of investment - and this pays off in the long run if the consumption costs are disregarded. After all, a hall heating system consumes x times its investment costs over its life cycle. It is therefore important to focus on life cycle costs. The keyword here is: low TCO - Total Costs of Ownership. You can save (or even spend!) a lot of money at the wrong end without it being really effective in the end.
So which heating system is worth it - even in the long run? The answer is: the heater that best fits your usage profile and meets your economic requirements. Infrared dark radiators are characterized by low investment costs compared to many other systems. This is confirmed by the results of a study we conducted together with the Technical University of Kaiserslautern. Investment costs for the use of regenerative energies such as a heat pump in conjunction with underfloor heating or a wood pellet stove coupled with radiant ceiling panels are between a factor of 1, 8 to 4.0 - on average a factor of 3.0! - higher than for a dark radiator system with residual heat utilization.
Regenerative energies are all well and good in residential buildings, but in halls they clearly lag behind the specially developed dark radiators. This is because regenerative energies differ functionally from classical energy sources in one important point and that is the low temperature level. This low temperature level always ties renewable energies to hydraulic solutions, at the end of which is warm air. And warm air as heat transfer in high spaces is dysfunctional, as we have already seen. Who benefits from generating a lot of renewable energy for a lot of money, which then does not develop the necessary heat at the workplace? Halls have completely different conditions due to the significantly higher rooms.
In addition, infrared dark radiators score - as already mentioned - with high efficiency and low annual energy requirements. The investment costs are amortized after just a few years. A dark radiator therefore clearly pays for itself in most halls.
Achieve personal and energy goals with dark radiators
No matter whether your hall is four, ten or more meters high: dark radiators are a sustainable investment that will not only increase the satisfaction and productivity of your employees, but will also help you meet energy policy targets thanks to their high efficiency. Please feel free to inform yourself here. If you would like to talk about specific plans right now, let's have a conversation and discuss the different requirements of your industry.
HEATING FOR HALLS: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS
Room volume, employee needs, climate protection goals, heating costs, and, and, and: When choosing the right heating system for your halls, you need to consider a whole range of factors. Read this article to find out what these are in detail and how you can master these challenges with a modern system.
First challenge in heating for halls: The structural characteristics
The biggest challenge in terms of heating for halls is probably the enormous spatial volume of hall buildings and their ceiling heights of four, ten or more meters. Keeping these buildings at a constant working temperature in winter is anything but trivial. Especially if the energy costs are not to get out of hand.
Added to this is the difficulty that no two industrial or commercial buildings are the same. High racks, overhead cranes, a wide variety of floor plans and usage profiles all place their own demands on the heating system to be installed. Simply distributing a few heaters in the room is not enough here. Due to their size and height, hall buildings have very special requirements in terms of building physics, which differ fundamentally from multi-story buildings. Therefore, it is worthwhile to consult a designated hall heating expert in order not to have to live with compromises in terms of functionality and end up investing a lot of money unnecessarily for insufficient performance.
Not always in view, but a relevant factor in heating for halls: Employee needs and a productive indoor climate
The structural characteristics of hall buildings also make it difficult to influence the indoor climate as desired and thus ensure a good working atmosphere. However, this is an important factor for the productivity of your employees: Ideally, the temperature in the work area should be 18 to 20 °C. But not every employee needs the same temperature. But not every employee needs the same temperatures: those who do physical work would naturally like it cooler than their colleague with a quiet activity while sitting or standing. When it comes to choosing the right heating system for your halls, this poses another challenge, because it means you have to plan for different zones that can be heated flexibly. Both in terms of working areas and in terms of usable zones.
Different hall zones require flexible systems
Let's take a closer look at what everyday life in industrial and commercial halls looks like: In one area of the hall, temperature- and condensation-sensitive goods are stored that must be kept at a uniform temperature. At the other end, a door remains open despite the freezing outside temperature - why close it if it has to be opened again? There is no need to run the heating here. It would be a waste of energy and money. In between, there are the workplaces already mentioned with different temperature requirements.
In addition, there are ceiling cranes that are parked under the heater from time to time and block the heat radiation. Perhaps the heater is also switched off overnight to keep operating costs down - and has to heat up again the next morning just in time for the start of operations. Without long lead times, of course. In view of all these points, it makes little sense to rely on heating systems for halls that continuously heat the air. Flexible systems are needed!
Energy and climate policy comes more into focus
With regard to heating systems for halls, however, it is no longer just what happens inside the hall that counts. What happens outside the building is also becoming increasingly relevant. We are talking here about climate protection and thus energy consumption. By 2030, primary energy consumption in Germany is to be reduced by 30% compared with 2008, and halved by 2050 - that's what the Energy Efficiency Strategy 2050 of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy says. In the building sector in particular, the Federal Republic wants to drive energy efficiency forward in the process.
For hall owners planning a new heating system, this means the next challenge: It is essential to rely on heating systems that are as efficient as possible and fuels with low emissions in order to reduce energy consumption to a minimum. Ideally, residual heat is also used to really get the most out of heating your halls. Using energy optimally in this way protects the environment and is in line with climate protection targets. Because one thing is clear: less fuel consumption - less emissions. But you should also rely on energy-saving hall heating systems in your own interest. Because:
The question of the right heating system for your halls is closely related to the question of costs
Over their life cycle, hall heating systems consume six to twenty times more energy than the investment costs. This makes the operation of these heating systems significant cost drivers for hall owners, which are difficult to get under control without an efficient, flexible system. Let's take a look back at the aspects that arise from the specifics of the building and the day-to-day work.
Heating the entire room volume: Unnecessary energy consumption. Air heated by hot-air heating systems that accumulates under the ceiling of the hall: unnecessary energy consumption. Heating unused hall zones: Unnecessary energy consumption. Overheated hall areas because heating cannot be flexibly controlled: Unnecessary energy consumption. Heaters that continue to heat even when the hall doors are open: Unnecessary energy consumption. Heaters that have only been heating the overhead crane parked underneath them for hours: Unnecessary energy consumption. Overall, heating that does not match the usage profile of the hall - unnecessary energy consumption.
The list could be continued endlessly, but it has certainly already become clear: Only modern, intelligently operating heating systems that have been specifically developed as heating systems for halls will help you avoid precisely such energy-wasting traps and thus keep both investment and running costs low. And this also with a view to the future. Because heating costs will continue to rise in the coming years. The reason for this is the CO2 tax on the use of fossil fuels, which has been in force in some countries such as Germany since January 1, 2021. It therefore makes sense, on the one hand, to rely on a particularly low-CO2 fuel such as gas and, on the other hand, on a highly efficient heating system for your halls - unless you want to put up with the rising costs.
This makes it clear: There are a whole range of challenges when it comes to selecting heating systems for halls. It's good if you know them and can avoid them in a targeted manner. Thus, in conclusion, the question arises:
What is the solution to these challenges?
As described at the beginning, no two halls are alike. The selection of the right heating system for your halls must therefore also take into account your individual circumstances. There is no blanket solution. In principle, however, you can meet all the challenges mentioned above with a modern, gas-powered infrared radiator system from a ceiling height of four meters. With the help of intelligent control technology and modular extensions, problems such as open hall doors can be detected and the heating in this area can be switched off.
On a zone-by-zone basis, the heater can meet different temperature requirements. Since infrared heaters do not heat the air per se, there is no dust turbulence or unpleasant drafts. Also, no warm air accumulates unused under the hall ceiling. Simply put, such a heating system heats only what is really necessary. In combination with natural gas as a fuel (which has a high primary energy factor and is becoming increasingly green) and intelligent use of residual heat (for example, to heat adjacent offices), you kill all birds with one stone: manageable investment costs. High energy efficiency. Satisfied employees. Low total cost of ownership. Environmental protection. So when choosing a heating system for your halls, go for the right solution right from the start!
Buy dark radiators: Convincing technologies at a glance
Save energy costs and protect the environment: Dark radiators are among the most efficient heating systems for halls that you can buy. But which infrared system is right for you? We give you an overview.
Dark radiators, also called infrared radiators, offer you more flexibility than classic heating systems. Why? Because the systems don't heat the air per se - a heating method that is comparatively inefficient. Instead, dark radiators transmit energy in the form of electromagnetic waves. When these waves hit a solid, the energy is converted into heat. This makes it possible to heat with the usage profile of a hall and to exclude layers of air above the usage area.
Another advantage: Since the heat does not take a detour via the air, the systems can be switched on and off as quickly as light. With this responsiveness, the heaters adapt perfectly to the dynamics of everyday life, such as when doors open. They only heat where heat is needed, thus saving energy. Up to 70 percent of energy costs can be saved compared to conventional heating systems. Employees also find the heat particularly pleasant because it resembles the natural heating principle of the sun. They can work correspondingly productively. So much for the advantages. But what technology should you know if you want to buy a dark radiator?
PRIMA entry-level line convinces with 60 % radiation efficiency
Do you have to do without infrared technology on a tight budget? Not at all, proves PRIMA. Even on a small budget, you can buy a dark radiator and benefit from its numerous advantages. The entry-level line from KÜBLER is inexpensive and yet powerful. It uses the best burner technology that we originally developed for the high-end MAXIMA series. The result is remarkable for a standard class heater. PRIMA brings a radiation efficiency of around 60 percent into the hall in the form of directly usable infrared heat.
This pays off directly for users of the technology. They save around ten percent on heating costs compared with conventional standard infrared units. The entry-level line is equally suitable for new halls and renovation projects. The only important factor is the ceiling height. It should be at least four meters.
OPTIMA high-performance infrared heating series: 72 % radiation efficiency
OPTIMA plus goes one step further. Since its introduction, this infrared heating series has been one of the most efficient and powerful dark radiators you can buy. KÜBLER has developed a burner technology especially for this series that ensures a homogeneous distribution of the gas-air mixture. It produces a long flame and scores with an excellent energy transfer from flame to radiant tube. As a result, the infrared heat is transferred evenly to the room environment - regardless of whether the hall height is four or 35 meters.
The outer shell of the high-end heater is also closed and fully insulated. The burner and radiation tube are geometrically optimized so that as little heat as possible escapes upwards. The bottom line is that OPTIMA plus achieves a radiation efficiency of 72 percent. Depending on the hall project, operators can save up to 30 percent energy compared to conventional infrared technologies. The investment in OPTIMA plus therefore pays for itself in two to five years.
MAXIMA: How to buy a dark radiator that reaches 80% radiation efficiency
The MAXIMA series is KÜBLER's high-efficiency line. In six years of development, the engineers have succeeded in setting benchmarks in the world of dark radiators with new technologies. For example, they have developed a new burner technology - including a system that preheats the combustion air. It achieves an enormously high radiation efficiency of 80 percent (measured according to DIN EN 416-2) with minimized convection losses. As a result, users save up to 45 percent in energy costs compared to standard infrared heaters. They also protect the environment thanks to low consumption values and the hearing of their employees. Because no infrared heating system is quieter. Last but not least, the MAXIMA series impresses with its design. This is confirmed not only by numerous customers across countries, but also by the international design competition "Design Plus powered at ISH". It has awarded MAXIMA with a seal of quality.
In addition to the MAXIMA, OPTIMA plus and PRIMA series of dark radiators, KÜBLER also offers other infrared systems that can be individually adapted to hall geometries: For example, the NRV multiburner system. These are multi-torches connected in series - with a continuous radiation tube. They are ideal for large areas and low ceiling heights.
Buy intelligent control systems for more efficiency to complement the dark radiator
In order to buy a dark radiator that can unleash its full energy-saving potential, you need another key component in addition to the devices: intelligent control systems. KÜBLER specializes in their development. To optimize the control of hall heating systems, we have developed a modular control system called CELESTRA. This is a highly functional, intuitive control cockpit that allows users to adapt system operation to changing requirements and run at optimum efficiency levels. Up to 20% additional savings can be generated in this way - even more depending on the project.
One of the most important modules: E.M.M.A. (Energy Monitoring & Management Application). With this intelligent software tool, users analyze, archive, compare and document temperature curves, heating outputs and consumption data. In this way, you gain important information for the continuous optimization of the heating process and create the basis for certifications or audits, for example, according to DIN EN ISO 50001.
Saving even more energy: H.Y.B.R.I.D. overall system recovers heat from waste gas from hall heating systems and production processes
KÜBLER offers much more than just individual components. In order to achieve maximum energy efficiency, we have developed a complete system called H.Y.B.R.I.D.. The hybrid technology combines infrared and hydraulic systems. As an overall system, H.Y.B.R.I.D. integrates high-efficiency infrared heaters such as MAXIMA, digital controls (e.g. CELESTRA) and a heat exchanger called O.P.U.S. X. A combination that makes it possible for the first time to use the residual heat from hall heating systems to heat offices, for example. And what's more: energy flows from production processes or from solar thermal energy (HelioB.R.I.D. system) can also be combined and used in the hybrid system.
To do this, O.P.U.S. X extracts the energy from the exhaust gas and transfers it to a storage medium, usually water. The hot water can then be fed into the heating circuit return of a pumped hot water heating system via a buffer tank. Up to 15 percent of the energy that was previously lost to the environment can be recovered in this way.
In terms of energy efficiency, the combination of dark radiator, control and residual heat recovery is virtually unbeatable: Up to 70 % energy savings have been proven in reference projects so far. It is not without reason that H.Y.B.R.I.D. was awarded the German Sustainability Prize as Germany's most sustainable product.
Conclusion: Buy dark radiators that pay off
If you want to buy dark radiators, you can choose from numerous products on the market. To find the right one, you should first get an overview of the specifics, requirements, and how your hall will be used. Then use our free configurator so that we can make you an individual offer!
How to find the optimum hall heating system
Do you want to get the most out of your new hall heating system, save on energy costs and be prepared for environmental laws of the future? Then it is advisable to consider a few tips before buying. You can find out which ones in this article.
First of all, be aware that industrial and commercial buildings have different heating requirements than homes or offices. Sounds trivial? But it isn't. In fact, many planners still make the mistake of applying a heating strategy similar to that used for multi-story buildings. The problem: Warm air rises. With low ceiling heights, such as in offices or apartments, this is not relevant. In halls, on the other hand, the warm air collects quasi uselessly at great heights under the hall roof.
Until it is pleasantly warm on the ground, operators have to channel a lot of heating energy into the hall and use systems that direct air currents back down. This is basically a waste of money, because heat is usually only required in large halls at a person height of around two meters, not at higher levels. As a rule, therefore, it is sufficient to heat 20 percent of the room volume. Even then, employees are pleasantly warm and can develop their full productivity.
Find the right technology for your hall heating
Now the question arises as to which technology should be considered to specifically heat the 20 percent or so of your hall. If you look around the market, you will notice: There are centralized and decentralized heating systems. Centralized systems include industrial underfloor heating, centrally supplied water-based air heaters and hot water radiant ceiling panels, for example. They operate with a central power generator and a piping system that transports hot water to the desired location.
Decentralized heating systems, on the other hand, include infrared radiators that can be mounted under the ceiling. They are gas-powered and work with electromagnetic waves. As soon as the waves hit a solid body, such as a person or the room's frame, the energy is converted into heat. The clou: Infrared emitters do not heat the air! This means that only the occupied and occupied areas are heated.
At the same time, hall operators enjoy flexibility. They can divide the hall into different heating zones with several infrared radiators - and provide more heat for employees in order picking, for example, than for colleagues in production, where machines already provide sufficient basic heat. This flexibility increases employee satisfaction. Even if the hall is repurposed, it is easier to adapt the system with these decentralized solutions compared to the centralized system.
Another advantage of infrared technology is that it is responsive. Operators switch the heating on and off in much the same way as lights. Since the energy doesn't take a detour through the air, heat is available virtually at the push of a button. And you don't even need to manually turn it on and off in the automation age. This task is performed by intelligent control technology, which adapts the heating output to changing conditions. Users thus reduce energy costs by up to 70 percent, so the investment in the heating system pays for itself in a short time.
Get an overview of your hall's requirements
In order for space heating systems to develop their full potential, they should be adapted to your hall like a tailor-made suit. However, this adaptation by an external service provider will only succeed if you have a clear picture of your hall building, hall use and your wishes for the heating system in advance. Be particularly oriented to the factors that could have an influence on the temperature. These questions can help you:
- What are the dimensions of your hall?
- What is the condition of the building?
- How is the hall used?
- Are there different areas and times of use ?
- What about the gate opening times?
- How was heating done so far - are there consumption data?
- What goals and requirements should the new heating system meet?
The answers to these questions form a foundation on which your heating partner can build.
Think through different energy sources
In times of climate change, the German government's goals are ambitious: Germany is to be climate-neutral by 2045 at the latest. The business community is making corresponding efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Many companies are saying goodbye to heating oil, which will be banned for new buildings from 2026 anyway, and are instead focusing on renewable energies and technologies such as solar thermal energy or electric heat pumps.
If you decide to go this way, however, you should be aware that you are committing to a central heating system. And for this you need a hydraulic distribution system. In addition, such a system is often associated with two to four times higher investment costs and is comparatively inert, so that in many cases the heat supply cannot be adapted quickly enough to dynamic requirements.
Infrared radiators work with natural gas. But compared with other fossil fuels, this gas is environmentally friendly as the lowest carbon dioxide among the classic fuels, since it has the lowest primary energy factor of all. What's more, natural gas is becoming increasingly green thanks to the upcoming feed-in of renewably generated hydrogen (power-to-gas technology) and is considered one of the most future-proof energy sources in Germany, especially in conjunction with the country's excellently developed gas network.
Now you may be asking yourself: The new Building Energy Act (GEG) stipulates that in the future I may only heat with renewable energies. Isn't an infrared radiator prohibited? No! According to the GEG, from a hall height of more than four meters, you are no longer bound to regenerative energy sources. While central heating systems are obliged to use renewable energy in order to comply with the GEG, the most efficient infrared hall heating technology can also be used with natural gas. So you don't have to worry about compliance.
Take a close look at indoor heating suppliers
To ensure that you find an efficient and future-proof hall heating system, you should check the competence of suppliers in advance. The following questions are suitable for orientation:
- What references does the provider have?
- Is there a nationwide service (if you have or want to set up several locations)?
- Can you trust that you will still receive spare parts and service in 15 years?
- Does the supplier have a development department that is innovative and develops products according to modern standards?
- Do the employees appear competent?
- Is the system flexible? Can it be easily adapted to changes in legislation and conversions?
It is also advisable to focus not only on the price of the hall heating system, but on the total cost of ownership (TCO) - in other words, the operating costs over the entire life cycle. Only with this value can you calculate whether it is a worthwhile investment.