With energy costs ever increasing, the need for all businesses, large and small, to control the cost of generating their compressed air is becoming increasingly important. S & L Engineering (WA) can provide a comprehensive review of compressed air system and offer advice and recommendations for improving energy efficiency.
The Importance of Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance is essential for reliable production and reduction in energy wastage. For example, if a filter is clogged extra power is needed to overcome the obstruction, so the generating pressure is increased if a condensation drain is not operating properly, this can increase the pressure drop across the distribution system More energy is needed and costs increase.
Check for Leaks:
Many businesses neglect to include checking for leaks in their system, as part of their maintenance program. The typical leak rate on a site can be up to 40%. That's a lot of compressed air and dollars wasted.
Reduce Artificial Demands:
Artificial demand is created when an end use is supplied air pressure, higher than required for the application. Use pressure regulators at the end use to reduce artificial demand and save energy.
Switch off when not needed:
Compressed air installations are often left on overnight, even when there is no production. This is very wasteful, because power is being used to feed leaks. Even when compressors are idling they can still draw 40% of their full load current.
Controls:
Compressors switch on and off as the pressure demand varies. This cycling is very wasteful in terms of energy. Installing timers and control systems, including inverter driven screw compressors can minimize or eliminate on load and off load patterns and save substantial amounts of money.
Take Action:
Contact S & L Engineering (WA) for energy efficient solutions for compressed air requirements, from maintenance programs and reviews of existing system, through to design and supply of new installations.