HVAC for Electrical Substations

The Criticality of HVAC in Electrical Centers

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Electrical centers and substations are the heart of the electrical system. Transformers, medium and low voltage panels, frequency inverters, and automation systems generate intense heat during operation. Without an adequate HVAC system, temperatures can reach critical levels, causing:

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• Accelerated insulation degradation: The lifespan of electrical insulation is halved for every 10°C above the nominal temperature.
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• Failures in electronic components: PLCs, HMIs, and protection systems are sensitive to elevated temperatures.
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• Emergency shutdowns: Thermal protections may activate, causing power supply interruptions.
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• Reduction in load capacity: Transformers and cables have their capacity reduced at high temperatures.
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Helioterm Design Methodology for Electrical Centers

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Our design methodology is specific to the electrical sector and includes:

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1. Thermal Load Survey

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We calculate the thermal losses of each equipment: transformers (iron and copper losses), panels (losses in busbars and circuit breakers), inverters (typical efficiency of 95-98%), and automation systems. We also consider thermal loads from lighting, personnel, and infiltration.

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2. Environmental Conditions Analysis

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We assess the climatic conditions of the region: maximum design temperature, humidity, presence of dust, salinity (coastal regions), and altitude. These factors directly influence the selection and sizing of equipment.

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3. Redundancy Definition

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For critical electrical centers, N+1 redundancy is mandatory. In high-criticality installations (transmission substations, data centers), 2N redundancy may be required.

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4. Technology Selection

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We choose among different technologies according to the characteristics of the installation:

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• Wall-mounted: Ideal for small to medium-sized panel rooms. Simple installation, facilitated maintenance.
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• Self-Contained: For environments without available external space. Internal unit with ducts to the exterior.
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• Split System: For control and command rooms where low noise is important.
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• Chillers + Fan Coils: For large electrical centers with multiple rooms.
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Special Features for the Electrical Sector

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IP54/IP55 Protection

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Our equipment is designed with IP54 or IP55 protection rating, ensuring protection against dust and water jets. This is essential in industrial environments where contamination can compromise operation.

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Operation at High External Temperature

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Equipment sized to operate with external temperatures up to 55°C, ensuring performance even under the most severe conditions in Brazil.

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Corrosion-Resistant Materials

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For installations in coastal regions or aggressive environments, we use galvanized steel cabinets with electrostatic paint, coils with anticorrosive treatment, and stainless steel components.

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Electromagnetic Compatibility

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Our equipment is designed and tested to avoid generating electromagnetic interference that could affect the installation’s protection and automation systems.

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Integration with SCADA Systems

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All our systems can be integrated with the installation’s SCADA, providing:

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• Temperature of each monitored environment
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• Operating status of HVAC equipment
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• High temperature alarms, compressor failure, and redundancy loss
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• Operation history for trend analysis
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• Remote commands for on/off and setpoint
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Maintenance and Support

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We offer preventive and corrective maintenance contracts specific to the electrical sector, with:

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• Team trained in NR-10 and safety procedures
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• 24/7 emergency service
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• SLA response according to installation criticality
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• Strategic spare parts inventory
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• Detailed technical reports
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