As the UK continues to invest in sustainable and secure energy infrastructure, the construction of Hinkley Point C Nuclear Power Station stands as a landmark project. While much of the attention is understandably focused on the nuclear island, the Non-Nuclear Island plays a vital role in converting heat into electricity. At the heart of this system lies a complex and highly engineered HVAC network, which demands precision, reliability, and long-term performance. That is where Pyropress comes in.
Supporting Critical Infrastructure with Trusted Technology
Pyropress, through our trusted distributor, has proudly supplied a range of flow switches and ultra-low differential pressure switches for the HVAC system installed within the Non-Nuclear Island at Hinkley Point C. This is the first of five stages in a long-term supply programme. Each stage requires robust instrumentation capable of withstanding demanding operational conditions.
The HVAC system in this context is not just about comfort. It is a critical component of the infrastructure that ensures safe and efficient operation of the power station. It regulates air quality, temperature, and pressure across various zones, including control rooms, electrical enclosures, and turbine halls. Any failure in this system could compromise operational integrity, making reliable pressure switches essential.
Why SIL2 Pressure Switches Matter in HVAC Systems
In large-scale HVAC systems, particularly those supporting critical infrastructure, pressure switches are essential for monitoring and controlling airflow, ensuring system efficiency, and protecting equipment from damage. These switches detect changes in pressure and trigger responses such as activating alarms, opening or closing valves, or shutting down equipment to prevent damage.
In the case of Hinkley Point C, the HVAC system must operate flawlessly to maintain optimal environmental conditions and support the broader energy conversion process. Our SIL2 differential pressure switches, capable of sensing as low as 0.25 mBar (25 Pa), are specifically designed for such sensitive applications. These ultra-low pressure thresholds are crucial for detecting minute changes in airflow and maintaining system balance, particularly in areas where even slight pressure variations can impact performance or safety.
Introducing the Titan ™ Pressure and Flow Switches Range
At the core of this project is our Titan ™ range of pressure and flow switches. Built with robust stainless steel housings, these switches have a proven track record in arduous offshore and industrial environments for over 40 years. Their durability and reliability made them the natural choice for Hinkley Point C.
The Titan ™ switches range is engineered to perform in the harshest conditions, including high humidity, vibration, and corrosive atmospheres. These are the same conditions often found in offshore oil and gas platforms, where Pyropress products have been trusted for decades. Bringing that same level of resilience to a nuclear power station’s HVAC system ensures peace of mind for engineers and operators alike.
Key Features of the Titan ™ Range:
- SIL2 certification, ensuring compliance with stringent safety standards.
- Failure rate of one per million hours, equating to a Mean Time Before Failure (MTBF) of 114 years.
- Designed for long-term operation, with an expected lifespan of 25+ years when maintained periodically.
- Available in a variety of configurations to suit different pressure ranges and installation requirements.
Technical Highlights
The specific components supplied to Hinkley Point C include:
- Flow Switches: 150mm in size, engineered for high-volume HVAC applications where accurate flow detection is critical.
- Differential Pressure Switches: Capable of detecting pressure differences as low as 0.25 mBar (25 Pa), ideal for ultra-sensitive monitoring in ventilation and filtration systems.
- Certifications: All switches are SIL2 certified, making them suitable for safety-critical applications where reliability is paramount.
- These specifications ensure that the HVAC system can respond quickly and accurately to changes in environmental conditions, maintaining optimal performance and safety across the facility.
Built for Longevity and Reliability
In environments where downtime is not an option, the longevity of components is paramount. With periodic maintenance, our Titan ™ switches are expected to deliver decades of reliable service, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimising lifecycle costs.
This long-term reliability is not just a cost-saving measure. It is a critical factor in maintaining operational continuity in facilities like Hinkley Point C. Every component must perform flawlessly, and the Titan ™ range is engineered to meet that challenge.
Why Choose Pyropress for HVAC System Instrumentation?
With over 60 years of experience in designing and manufacturing products for harsh and hazardous environments, Pyropress is a trusted partner for industries where performance and safety are non-negotiable. Our involvement in Hinkley Point C is a testament to the confidence that major infrastructure projects place in our products.
We understand the unique challenges of industrial HVAC systems and offer tailored solutions that combine technical excellence with proven durability. Whether it is a nuclear power station, offshore platform, or chemical processing plant, Pyropress delivers products you can rely on.
Explore our range of switches or get in touch with our team to discuss your project requirements.
