By Mark Freeman, offer manager, Digital Building for Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric.
Our senses play a vital role in how we perceive, experience and react to the world around us; they are a critical part of our existence. Today’s building management systems (BMS) cannot function properly without sensors. Like our senses they are an integral part of operations that run silently in the background, almost taken for granted.
Every modern building, from data centres and hospitals to commercial and residential spaces, relies heavily on an extensive network of sensors to monitor and regulate conditions. It is the intelligence that feeds into the BMS. This is so critical that if sensors start failing, the BMS can become ‘blind’. For example, the failure of the temperature sensor in an HVAC system can disrupt a significant part of a building’s operations, leading to increased energy costs and reduced occupant comfort.
The eyes, ears, smell and touch of buildings
Today’s BMS relies on an intricate network of sensors to gather real-time data on various environmental conditions. These sensors are strategically placed in key areas, including plant rooms, ducts and living spaces to continuously monitor critical parameters such as temperature, humidity, air quality and particulate matter. This data is then processed by AI-driven analytics allowing facility managers to make informed decisions that enhance building performance and efficiency.
Temperature and humidity
There are few things that affect us as much as a building environment that is too cold, too hot or too humid. Equipment performance and energy efficiency can also take serious strain. Sensors make sure that temperature and humidity are precisely managed in all buildings, including critical facilities like data centres. These sensors enable HVAC systems to operate efficiently, reducing energy wastage while maintaining an ideal indoor climate for both man and machine.
Air quality
Indoor air quality is a fundamental aspect of occupant health and comfort. Poor air quality can lead to health issues such as respiratory problems, fatigue and decreased productivity. Smart air quality sensors monitor factors like CO2 levels, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter, ensuring optimal air quality in industrial facilities. By integrating these sensors into a BMS, HVAC systems can be automatically adjusted to maintain fresh, clean air while minimising energy consumption. Beyond air quality and temperature regulation, fluid control also plays a key role in efficient building operations. Smart valves ensure precise control over heating and cooling systems, optimising the flow of air and liquids.
Smart sensors at work
Schneider Electric offers a range of smart sensors designed to meet the needs of various building environments. Some of these include:
• SpaceLogic PRAQ (plant room air quality) sensors: These monitor air quality, CO2 levels, temperature, humidity, VOCs and particulate matter in plant rooms and ducts.
• SpaceLogic PM (particulate matter) sensors: These utilise laser-scattering technology to provide highly accurate particulate matter measurements.
• EasyLogic ball valves: These enable precise control of fluid flow in HVAC systems for enhanced energy efficiency.
• EasyLogic PRAQ sensors: These offer cost-effective temperature monitoring solutions with easy integration into building management systems.
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