Aluminum Extrusion and Fabrication

Hydro needed a new ventilation solution to improve airflow and decrease temperatures throughout its aluminum extrusion and fabrication facility. Excess heat from the furnaces in the building was getting trapped at the ceiling. Baseline temperatures ranged from 102°F - 110°F at the floor.

Hydro wanted a solution that would eliminate the persistent fan maintenance while minimizing the high temperatures. That is why natural ventilation proved to be the right option.

Moffitt used CFD modeling to test and compare a variety of ventilation solutions. After several iterations, the team developed a system using large roof vents, small turbine vents, and intake louvers.

The installation team scheduled work around plant downtime to prevent interrupting Hydro's workflow. Additionally, they installed the new Model RR turbine vents into the existing fan openings to avoid cutting additional holes into the roof.

RESULTS

The new solution performed as designed, and the workers were significantly more comfortable. This system improved air flow throughout the aluminum extrusion and fabrication plant and provided a 20°F average temperature drop at the work floor.