Compressed air costs can be reduced by comprehensive system monitoring. Costs are rising year by year: A 200 kW compressor with a normal maintenance plan and power cost at R0,84 kWh running 24/7/365 will cost R1,3 million a year to operate.
The factors surrounding air compressor cost reductions are numerous and challenging, and include waste of thousands of Rand’s worth of energy per annum. The problems and energy wasters can be summarised as;
* Compressors that under deliver on air volume, but still consume vast amounts of energy.
* Systems that have excessive leak losses.
* Dryers that malfunction and feed wet compressed air into the distribution system.
* Distribution pipe lines that restrict air flow and incur pressure drops that waste energy.
* Operators that increase compressor operating pressures to compensate for undersized piping systems.
* Undersized compressor room manifolds that restrict air flows and create back pressures that force compressors to waste energy.
* Compressor rooms that inflict high temperatures on the compressors causing a reduction in efficiency.
* Inappropriate applications and misuse of compressed air.
Many engineers, when asked the operating costs of their own compressors, are often unable to provide accurate figures. Artic Driers International in conjunction with CS iTEC are able to provide engineers with instant information delivered to their laptop, smartphone or scada system.
The CSM-2G system allows engineering staff to monitor a factory’s compressed air system 24/7/365. It provides information on total power consumption in kWh, flow, velocities, pressure, dew point performance, water flow rates and temperatures. Cumulative air flows and velocities are also logged.
The system may be started off small and scaled up as budgets become available. Alarm setpoints are easily set and SMS alerts provide instant notification of a compressor or dryer fault. A Wi-Fi communication system makes installation around the entire plant fast and painless.
Software and data are cloud based, making data, security and software upgrades quick and easy. Data can be exported, imported and merged with ease and is displayed on screen in real time in multi-axis graph or table form. Units of measurement can be changed at will.
South African businesses can alleviate energy price crisis
Electrical Power & Protection
While grid instability remains a concern, the immediate and most critical driver of South African commercial and industrial investment in renewable energy is the escalating cost of electricity.
Read more...Real-time modelling is the key to a resilient, bi-directional energy grid Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Utilities and municipalities are facing a challenge as the country’s legacy power grid, engineered for one-way energy delivery from centralised suppliers to end-users, must rapidly evolve to meet a new paradigm.
Read more...Shielding data centre growth from the looming power crunch Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Today’s digital economy is placing unprecedented strain on the power grid. The good news is that these challenges are not insurmountable. By adopting proactive strategies such as alternative power sources, infrastructure planning and software, operators can secure capacity, build resilient facilities and scale sustainably.
Read more...Circuit breaker innovations Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Recent advancements in circuit breaker technology have seen a major step forward in setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability in data centres, industrial and commercial infrastructure.
Read more...Common battery tester errors and what they mean Comtest
Electrical Power & Protection
Battery testers help quickly assess battery health, diagnose issues, and determine whether a battery needs a charge or replacement. This guide covers some of the most common battery tester errors, what they mean, and what can cause them.
Read more...Cathodic protection design considerations that influence ESG outcomes Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Electrical Power & Protection
Major infrastructure like wharves, bridges, pipelines and tanks are at constant risk of corrosion. David Celine, managing director of cathodic protection specialist Omniflex, explains how CP system design can support ESG commitments, while simultaneously lowering costs and improving maintenance capabilities.
Read more...Recovering condensate and waste heat
Electrical Power & Protection
According to Associated Energy Services, strong partnerships with thermal energy users optimise opportunities to benefit from condensate return. waste heat recovery and the prevention of system contamination.
Read more...Quantum engine powered by particle entanglement
Electrical Power & Protection
In a landmark achievement that signals a new era in energy research, a team of physicists in China has carried out the first successful test of a quantum engine powered by particle entanglement. This technological breakthrough represents a fundamental shift in our approach to energy production.
Read more...Advancing sustainability in South Africa’s fruit industry Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Schneider Electric, together with Technoserve Medium Voltage, has implemented its advanced SF6-free MV switchgear at Two-a-Day situated in Grabouw in the Overberg district.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version