Compare technologies and discover why industrial retrofits with a natural ventilation system are more efficient and sustainable than exhaust fans
The fight against heat on the factory floor
High temperatures in industrial environments are not just a nuisance: they are a factor that directly impacts productivity, occupational health and operational efficiency. In metal warehouses or old structures, the problem is even more serious, as heat accumulates at the top of the room and makes it difficult for teams to work.
Given this scenario, many managers choose to installindustrial exhaust fan for warehouseas an immediate solution for ventilation. It is an apparently practical choice, but it may not be the most advantageous in the medium and long term.
In this article, we will analyze the pros and cons of this technology and present a definitive and sustainable alternative: theMB Lantern, onenatural ventilation system for industrialwhich eliminates the need for continuous consumption of electrical energy and reduces maintenance costs.
Why are hoods still chosen
O natural air extractoror mechanic is a traditional technology, present on the market for decades. It promotes air renewal and reduces part of the accumulated heat, especially in smaller spaces. Among the advantages perceived by managers are:
- Low initial costof acquisition.
- Quick installation, without major adaptations.
- Ease of replacement e wide availabilityon the market.
However, these initial advantages tend to be neutralized over time, especially in large warehouses or industries with continuous operation. The most common challenges include:
- Continuous consumption of electrical energy, which significantly increases monthly operating costs.
- High noise, which affects ergonomics and can cause hearing discomfort.
- Constant need for maintenanceand changing parts, interrupting processes.
- Limited efficiencyin environments with high ceilings or large internal volume.
- Little adaptabilityfor warehouses with variable layout or need for operational silence.
In practice, aindustrial warehouse exhaust fanIt may work well in the short term, but it tends to generate recurring costs and limited results over the years.
When the extractor fan is no longer the best solution
In warehouses with high thermal load, such as metallurgical, textile or plastic industries, the volume of heat generated is much greater than the extraction capacity of a conventional exhaust fan.
Furthermore, in warmer regions, the air captured by the equipment is already heated, making thermal exchange difficult. Another point is that thechimney effect ventilation, used byMB Lantern, does not depend on electricity to expel hot air, which represents significant savings and eliminates noise problems.
Technical comparison: Exhaust fan x Lanternim MB
| Criterion | Industrial Exhaust Fan | MB Lantern |
| Power consumption | High (mechanical) / Zero (wind) | Zero |
| Efficiency in natural ventilation | Limited, especially in large warehouses | Superior, with continuous and controlled ventilation |
| Maintenance | Frequent and with moving parts | Practically zero |
| Noise | High | Null |
| Service life | Average (5 years) | High (10 years) |
| Sustainability | Low | High |
| Sealing against infiltration | Low without adequate retrofit | High with sealed structure |
What is Lanternim MB and how does it work
O industrial lanternis aventilation system for industrieswhich acts in a completely passive way, exploring two physical phenomena:
- Chimney effect: the warm, lighter air rises to the ridge and is expelled through the opening in the roof for ventilation.
- venturi effect: The louver design accelerates air passage, creating a low-pressure zone that pulls internal air out.
This technology guaranteescontrolled natural ventilation, without electricity consumption and with silent operation.
Technical differences of Lanternim MB
- Tailor-made project according to the warehouse layout and thermal needs.
- Hot-dip galvanized steel structure, with options for aluminum or galvalume sheets.
- Possibility of integration withprismatic polycarbonate dometooverhead lighting.
- Sealing against infiltration and entry of birds or insects.
- Superior efficiency in natural ventilation compared to traditional systems.
Direct benefits for the industry
1. Savings on electrical energy – Eliminates the need for industrial fans and air conditioners, reducing operational costs and contributing toenergy efficiency.
2. Low maintenance – With no moving parts, the lantern requires virtually no repairs throughout its useful life.
3. Sustainability and ESG – The use ofnatural ventilation for industrialIt is aligned with practices to reduce energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Property appreciation – Warehouses retrofitted withnatural ventilation systemare more attractive on the market and can receive environmental certifications.
Real case: Michelin retrofit
Michelin, a global leader in the tire sector, was facing challenges with ventilation and natural lighting at its industrial unit. In partnership with theMB Group, a project was carried out toindustrial retrofitto improve thermal comfort and energy efficiency.
InMGV Agroindustrial, located in Campina Verde (MG), were installed110m² of MBF100 Venetian blindsand theFlashlight MB1205, increasing the performance of natural ventilation and maximizing the entry of diffused light into the warehouse.
Results obtained:
- Significant improvement in airflow and internal renewal, exploiting thechimney effectofindustrial lantern.
- Reduction of internal temperature, providing greater thermal comfort for employees.
- Greater use ofoverhead lighting, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
- Energy efficiencyimproved, with a reduction in air conditioning costs.
- Alignment with practicesESG, reinforcing the sustainability and environmental commitment of the operation.
This intervention demonstrates hownatural ventilation for industrial, when applied strategically, can generate significant operational gains without the need for complex works or investments in mechanical ventilation systems.
Industrial retrofit: the smartest strategy
O industrial retrofitis the modernization of an existing structure, adapting it for greater efficiency, safety and comfort.
Unlike a new work, it:
- Requires less initial investment.
- It can be carried out in stages.
- Does not interrupt plant operation.
When opting for retrofit withroof lantern e industrial shutters, the industry achieves thermal and natural lighting gains without depending on electricity for ventilation.
Efficiency that goes beyond ventilation
The exhaust fan can still serve specific cases, but it is no longer the most advantageous choice for most industries. THEMB Lanterndelivers more than ventilation: it offers a healthier, more productive and sustainable environment.
Invest in anatural ventilation systemis to choosethermal comfort, energy efficiencyand real reduction in operating costs. In just a few weeks of installation, you can feel the difference in your environment and your bills.
Your factory suffers from excessive heat, high energy costs and decreased productivity
Speak to an MB engineer and discover how to modernize your warehouse without new work and with immediate gains.
