For businesses in all industrial sectors, operational efficiency and cost-cutting are paramount to success, from introducing the right processes, to reducing energy use. While many businesses rightly focus on optimising production lines and logistics, a significant and often overlooked source of energy waste is in plain sight: doorways. In a busy industrial setting, the constant flow of traffic and the simple act of opening and closing traditional manual doors can lead to massive energy loss, driving up heating and cooling expenses. Technological advancement in industrial door systems has led to the introduction of insulated roller shutters and high-speed doors, both of which provide a significant energy saving solution.
Investing in modern, powered industrial door systems can dramatically minimise air exchange, stabilise internal temperatures, and significantly reduce a business’s energy footprint.
Insulated Roller Shutters: Creating a Thermal Layer
Insulated roller shutter doors are an invaluable asset for creating a stable internal environment. Unlike standard roller doors, these shutters are specifically designed with thermal efficiency in mind. Their key feature is the inclusion of insulated panels, filled with materials like polyurethane foam. When the shutter is closed, this insulation forms a robust barrier, preventing the transfer of heat or cold. This is particularly crucial in facilities where temperature control is important, for example, cold storage warehouses, food processing lines, or even heated workshops during the winter months.
By creating this effective thermal seal, industrial insulated roller shutter doors significantly reduce the workload on a business premises’ HVAC systems. The heating and cooling equipment no longer has to constantly fight against the ambient outdoor temperature, resulting in less energy consumption and lower operational costs. Over time, the savings on heating and cooling expenses can provide a substantial return on the initial investment on industrial doors, making them a smart and sustainable choice for any business.
High-Speed Doors: Minimising Air Exchange
While insulated shutters provide excellent static thermal protection, high-speed doors have the advantage of dynamic energy saving. These doors are engineered for one purpose: to open and close as quickly as possible. This rapid operational speed is not just for efficiency; it’s a critical component of their energy-saving function.
In high-traffic areas, a traditional door can be left open for minutes at a time, allowing a torrent of heated or cooled air to escape, and therefore making HVAC systems work harder. High-speed doors, on the other hand, can cycle open and closed in a matter of seconds. This minimal “open time” drastically reduces the volume of air that can be exchanged between the interior and exterior environments. The result is a much more stable internal temperature, less strain on heating and cooling systems, and a direct reduction in energy bills.
A Holistic Approach to Energy Saving
Both insulated roller shutters and high-speed industrial door technologies can be used together in a complementary fashion. Insulated shutters can serve as the primary security and thermal barrier for a building’s main access point, especially during off-hours or in low-traffic periods. For areas with frequent vehicle or foot traffic, a high-speed door can be installed to handle the constant flow of movement while preventing excessive air exchange. The high-speed door can be used during operational hours, while the insulated shutter provides maximum thermal protection overnight or on weekends. This strategic combination ensures that a business is always protected against energy loss, regardless of the time or traffic volume.
Energy Efficient Industrial Door Systems
For businesses looking to increase efficiency and cut costs, addressing energy waste at the doorway is a logical and high-impact strategy that should not be overlooked. By investing in insulated roller shutter doors, high-speed door systems, or the powerful combination of both, businesses can stand to significantly minimise air exchange, stabilise internal temperatures, and ultimately lower their heating and cooling expenses. These steps play an important role in saving money, but also contribute to building a more sustainable and responsible business for the future.
MDS Industries are UK specialists in manufacturing, supplying and maintaining all types of industrial doors, including insulated roller shutters and high-speed door systems.
