Optimização de sistemas de automação para melhoria da eficiência energética em sistemas AVAC (Aquecimento, Ventilação e Ar Condicionado)

Abstract

This technical report aims to demonstrate the contribution of intelligent building automation through the implementation of a Building Management System (BMS) to the enhancement of energy efficiency in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. The study was carried out at Politérmica Moçambique, Lda., a leading company in the field of electromechanical installations and climate control systems in Mozambique. Based on a comprehensive survey of the facility and its operational requirements, the existing HVAC subsystems—such as chillers, AHUs, fan coils, pumps, sensors, and variable frequency drives—were analyzed and integrated into an automation network that enables the BMS to collect, process, and act on real-time data. The proposed architecture combines programmable logic controllers (PLCs), field devices (sensors and actuators), communication protocols (BACnet/Modbus), and HMI panels, creating a smart and centralized management ecosystem. The work includes single-line electrical diagrams, functional architecture models, comparative energy analysis before and after automation, and a predictive maintenance plan based on the continuous monitoring of key variables such as pressure, temperature, vibration, and power consumption. The BMS proved effective in early fault detection, reducing operational response time, and optimizing HVAC equipment performance, thereby improving indoor comfort and lowering wear and energy usage. The findings indicate an energy reduction of over 25%, significant cost savings, and a payback period of less than five months. This case study confirms that implementing well-dimensioned BMS and automation strategies tailored to the facility's context leads to more efficient, resilient, and sustainable buildings, aligned with modern engineering practices and smart infrastructure management principles.