Compressed air is often assumed to be a cheap or even free source of power. Yet, a typical 1,000-cfm installation consumes about $65,000 of electricity each year. In fact, energy represents about 75% of the total cost of buying and operating a compressor over its lifetime. To make matters worse, numerous independent studies confirm that industry experts waste about 30% of the compressed air they generate, amounting to a $20,000 loss for every 1,000 scfm installation.
Energy loss typically stems from one or more of the following elements: Leakage, misuse, over pressurization and pressure drop. So where should you begin to look for savings? What are the appropriate solutions? And most importantly, how much will it all cost you?
To start your own analysis of your potential savings and air preparation performance, you might want to follow this quick guide:
Measure System Flow Demand
Survey the factory in three areas:
• Compressor house
• Ring main
• Bays/point of use
In each area, focus on:
• Leaks
• Misuse
• Over pressure
• Pressure drop
• Safety issues then locally measure usage if possible
Having identified areas for savings, the next steps are:
• Cost out corrective action and payback
• Implement
• Check/flow pressure drop to validate
• Measure
This guest blog was contributed by Norgren, Norgrenexpress.com.
Filed Under: Pneumatic equipment + components, Safety systems + components
