Efficient & sustainable electric heating solutions

In the search for industrial efficiency and sustainability, Turnbull & Scott have made big steps with their recent technological innovation. With the launch of the new Electric Thermolier Unit Heater in 2023, Turnbull & Scott not only broadened their esteemed Thermolier range but also reinforced their commitment to supporting enterprises in their transition to greener operations. This advancement is not just a product launch; it’s a significant step forward in the pursuit of Net Zero goals across industries.

By Sam Rippin, Turnbull & Scott

Electric Thermolier fan heater.
Electric Thermolier fan heater.

Bridging tradition and innovation

The legacy of Turnbull & Scott in manufacturing renowned heating solutions is long-standing. Their steam-fed Thermolier Unit Heater has become a staple in factories and warehouses across the UK. However, the conscious shift towards sustainability prompted the innovation of an electric counterpart, retaining the commendable qualities of the steam-fed model while aligning with modern eco-friendly standards. Manufactured in the heart of the Scottish Borders at the Turnbull & Scott Hawick factory, the Electric Thermolier Unit Heater represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. With six models which range from 3kW to 20kW and single and 3-phase options available for the 3kW and 5kW models, the electric heater is ideal for use right across the light and heavy industrial landscape as well as some larger scale commercial environments. Its development was a direct response to the industrial demand for a robust electric heater that could operate independently of a steam supply and contribute to carbon emission reduction.

A catalyst for carbon reduction

The transition to greener energy sources is a paramount concern for industries across the globe. With specifi c Net Zero strategies and targets now common practice, the shift from fossil fuel dependency is not just a trend but a necessity. The Electric Thermolier Unit Heater arrives as a critical solution to this complex challenge. The UK’s electricity grid, which is rapidly decarbonizing, provides a viable pathway for industries to switch to electrical heating solutions without compromising their environmental objectives. In 2021 alone, 54% of electricity in the UK was generated from low carbon sources (renewables and nuclear) versus 42.6% from fossil fuels. This electric heating solution from Turnbull & Scott is emblematic of the company’s foresight and adaptability. Offering 100% efficiency—since all the electricity used by these heaters is converted into heat—these units exemplify how technological advancements can serve both operational and environmental objectives. This efficiency not only heralds a new era of industrial heating solutions but also underpins the strategic shift towards sustainability that many companies are striving for.

A comprehensive approach to sustainability

Turnbull & Scott’s commitment to aiding industries in achieving their Net Zero targets does not stop at the electric heater. Their broader range of innovative solutions, including waste heat recovery systems, sustainable cooling and chilling solutions, and a forthcoming transportable heat storage project, exemplifies a comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability. These initiatives are critical components of the wider environmental strategy required to combat climate change on an industrial scale. By integrating the Electric Thermolier Unit Heater into their portfolio, Turnbull & Scott are not just providing a product; they are offering a vision of the future. A future where industrial efficiency and sustainability are not mutually exclusive but are complementary facets of every operation. This electric heater, set against the backdrop of the UK’s decarbonization efforts, stands as a testament to what is achievable when innovation meets environmental stewardship.

About the author

Sam Rippin joined Turnbull & Scott as Marketing Executive in 2021 and has since been promoted to Marketing Manager. He is responsible for a wide range of marketing activities, including website management, social media, advertising, and market research. Sam specialises in product promotion and has experience launching new products across many different channels.

About this Technical Story

This Technical Story was first published in Heat Exchanger World Magazine in July 2024. To read more Technical Stories and many other articles, subscribe to our print magazine.

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