The Natural Solution for Nortel

Nortel Networks, based in Monkstown, Belfast, is one of the country’s leading centres for the design, manufacture and export of telecommunications switching systems. Its 34-acre site was originally developed in 1962 and purchased by Canadian-owned Nortel Networks in 1991.

 

Over 1,200 people are employed at the site. Heating for comfort and process manufacturing was originally supplied by two main heavy fuel oil boilers, providing either steam or high temperature hot water heating across the plant through a series of underground distribution mains. Over the years, demand for steam and process heating had diminished as new technologies and work methods were introduced, resulting in over-capacity for heat requirements. Operation at such low demand became increasingly costly, while heat distribution was inefficient, and maintenance costs high.

 

Nortel Networks sought an economical and environmentally sound alternative. The site has more than 20 buildings, including manufacturing, warehousing and Research & Development areas, together with administrative offices, all of which have varied heating and ventilation requirements.

 

A complete decentralisation programme was recommended by M&E services contractor Harvey Group plc. As part of their solution, Harvey Group selected Reznor energy efficient warm air systems, in line with Nortel’s economic and environmental targets. A natural gas ring main was installed throughout the site, feeding the scattered buildings and enabling Nortel Networks to install point-of use energy sources in most areas.

 

A total of 33 Reznor natural gas fired warm air heaters were installed in ten of the buildings, principally areas where the ceiling height is low, or where packaged product is stored, often racked up to the roof. The installed system includes ceiling-mounted indirect-fired warm air heaters from across the Reznor range. These are adapted, where required, to circulate fresh air in the summer or provide warm air curtains over loading bay doors.

 

A year after installation of the Reznor unit heaters, cost and environmental improvements have been quantified. Switching to a natural gas-fired system has resulted in savings on fuel costs of around £20,000. Energy consumption has reduced by 30 per cent, while harmful emissions such as carbon dioxide have dropped by 50 per cent since 1996, in line with Nortel Networks’ environmental targets. Comfort levels are achieved in just 20-30 minutes from start-up. Heat is generated exactly where it is needed, and all the standard heat losses associated with centralised boiler and steam feed systems have been eliminated.