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Business Energy Savings
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Air compressors |
 Efficiency gains from improving your motors and the associated systems are substantial. In general, savings come from either using a more suitable motor for a given task, or a more efficient one. Changing the system overall may also be the best way to reduce the need for the motor. |
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No costs/ low costs options
- Shut down compressors when not in use.
- Check filters and dryers regularly
- Less hoses and couplings means less chance of leakage.
- Make sure intercoolers are accurately sized (by measuring temperatures) and kept clean.
- Reduce air pressure to the minimum.
- Do not use compressed air for cleaning purposes. Use blowers or hand sweeping, which can save up to 10% of compressed air system usage.
- Repair air leaks
- Have a maintenance program. Maintain lubricators to reduce friction and wear. Maintain monitoring and control equipment.
- Install flow regulators and pressure valves.
- Fit timers to compressors with pneumatic unloaders so they only operate when they’re loaded.
Some investment
- Consider heat recovery systems for water heating.
- Make sure multiple compressors are sequenced using automatic sequencing controls. Shutoff timers should be used on all air compressors. Installing microprocessor controls on compressor systems can yield savings in the 2% to 4% range.
- Install variable speed drives on compressors. Savings are approximately 10%.
- Install air storage strategically to minimize system horsepower requirements and improve delivery of air. This measure can reduce the system's electricity usage by 15 to 35%.
Sources:
www.eecabusiness.govt.nz
www.fypower.org
www.coloradoefficiencyguide.com |
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