Steam Systems generally offer rapid payback on improvements and also cut labor demands due to break down issues. Steam traps, condensate return, repairing steam leaks, and waste heat recovery are typically projects which will pay back in 3-9 months. If your boilers are over 25 years old, new boilers can payback in about 18 months, cut labor and repair costs, and reduce emissions.
Compressed Air Systems consume large amounts of electricity and if not properly drained create equipment damage due to oil and water getting into sensitive equipment. Adding drain traps and proper point of use filtration equipment can save money and maintenance efforts. Payback is typically 3-6 months. If you routinely use compressed air at pressures of 25 psig or less, consider vane pumps and blowers to generate this air. Payback is 9-18 months.
Vacuum Systems can yield similar savings and paybacks. If you use compressed air to generate vacuum using venturi type generators, consider switching to a vacuum pump. If you use multiple separate pumps, consider going to a PLC demand based system to meet your needs.
If your plant is venting noticeable amounts of vapor or dumping water down the drain, lots of low fruit possibilities exist. As we face more low cost competition from many sectors, look for low fruit. To brainstorm low fruit possibilities in your facility, give me a call
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