The Arc Journal’s Post

Compressed Air System Energy Conservation Have you ever done an analysis on the cost of operating a compressed air system in your facility? What is the life cycle cost of a system that operates 24/7 over a span of 10 years? While compressed air systems are essential in many industrial operations, they also consume significant amounts of energy, often representing one of the largest utility costs in a facility. In a recent energy audit, over a one week period, on a system with 2 units of over 90kW air compressors that operate in rotation on 24/7 basis, the annual electrical cost works out to over S$400K per annum. This is based on prevailing Energy cost in Singapore and on the assumption that weekly requirement is consistent over 52 weeks. Before proceeding to the solutions stage, it is important to understand what triggered the audit and look at some basic checks that can be and should be conducted routinely. For a start, check the total loaded hours and unloaded hours vs total operational hours. A system operating 24/7 does not necessarily mean the air compressor is running at full load throughout. Compare this data against production capacity in the same period. It is also recommended to check pressure settings on the air compressor. While it is crucial to cater sufficient pressure for pressure drop across the system and ensure the air pressure at point of use meet the requirement, excessive drop in pressure will lead to a higher than required pressure setting and energy wastage. As a rule of thumb, every 2 psi(g) increase in pressure will require 1% more power from the compressor although this may vary according to the compressor's efficiency. Proper and regular maintenance of air compressors will impact not just the longevity of the equipment but also its performance and efficiency. It is good practice to have your service provider check on the system as well. There are many more factors that will have an effect on the energy efficiency of a system. More case studies will be provided moving forward so stay tuned. Feel free to contact us for a non-obligatory discussion.

Here are some ways to save energy in industry, electricity, and utilities: *Industrial Energy Savings:* 1. *Optimize production schedules*: Run equipment during off-peak hours or use energy-efficient machinery. 2. *Implement energy-efficient lighting*: Replace traditional lighting with LEDs or energy-efficient alternatives. 3. *Upgrade to energy-efficient motors*: Install high-efficiency motors or consider variable speed drives. 4. *Improve insulation*: Insulate pipes, tanks, and equipment to reduce heat loss. 5. *Use energy-efficient pumps*: Install pumps with high efficiency ratings or consider upgrading to energy-efficient alternatives. *Electricity Savings:* 1. *Use energy-efficient lighting*: Replace traditional lighting with LEDs or energy-efficient alternatives. 2. *Turn off unnecessary loads*: Implement a "turn off" culture for lights, computers, and equipment when not in use. 3. *Use power strips*: Plug equipment into power strips and turn off when not in use to eliminate standby power consumption. 4. *Upgrade to energy-efficient equipment*: Replace old equipment with energy-efficient alternatives. 5. *Monitor and analyze energy usage*: Use energy management software or meters to identify areas for improvement. *Utilities Savings:* 1. *Conduct energy audits*: Identify areas of energy waste and opportunities for improvement. 2. *Implement water-saving measures*: Install low-flow fixtures and optimize water usage in processes. 3. *Reduce natural gas usage*: Implement energy-efficient heating solutions or optimize existing systems. 4. *Optimize HVAC systems*: Regularly maintain and optimize heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. 5. *Consider renewable energy sources*: Explore options like solar, wind, or geothermal energy to reduce reliance on traditional utilities. Additional tips: - Regularly maintain equipment to ensure optimal performance. - Train employees on energy-efficient practices. - Consider hiring an energy manager or consultant to identify areas for improvement. - Explore energy-efficient financing options or incentives. Remember, every industry and facility is unique, so it's essential to conduct energy audits and assessments to identify specific areas for improvement.

How Combined Cycle Power Plants Work: Efficient, Clean Energy As the demand for clean energy grows, combined cycle power plants are emerging as a solution for efficient electricity generation. These plants use both gas and steam turbines to generate power, making them far more efficient than traditional power plants. Let’s take a closer look at how they work. What is a Combined Cycle Power Plant? A combined cycle power plant uses two methods to generate electricity. First, a gas turbine produces power, then the heat it generates is captured to produce steam, which powers a steam turbine. This process allows the plant to generate up to 50% more electricity than conventional plants using the same amount of fuel. Gas Turbine: The Core of the Power Plant At the heart of the plant is the gas turbine, which burns natural gas to generate energy. Compressed air is mixed with fuel and ignited, causing the turbine blades to spin. This mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy by a connected generator. Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG): Capturing Wasted Heat The Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG) captures exhaust heat from the gas turbine. This heat is used to generate steam by heating water, rather than allowing it to escape as waste. Steam Turbine: Generating Additional Electricity The steam produced by the HRSG drives the steam turbine, which creates more electricity. This secondary process uses what would have been wasted heat to increase the plant’s overall efficiency to around 60%, compared to 33% for a conventional plant. Generator: Converting Energy Into Electricity Both turbines drive a generator, converting mechanical energy into electrical power. The electricity is then transmitted through the grid to homes and businesses. Control Room: Monitoring Operations A plant’s control room monitors and manages operations in real-time. Operators ensure the plant runs efficiently, adjusting performance as needed to optimize energy production. Environmental Benefits Combined cycle power plants have a lower environmental impact. By reusing heat, they consume less fuel and produce fewer emissions. These plants, often powered by natural gas, can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional power plants, contributing to a cleaner energy future. Conclusion: The Future of Power Generation Combined cycle power plants are paving the way for more efficient, sustainable electricity generation. By using both gas and steam turbines, these plants significantly increase energy efficiency while reducing emissions. As the world looks for cleaner energy solutions, combined cycle technology will be a key part of meeting those demands.

Energy Monitoring, Targeting and Reporting (MT&R) is a powerful management technique for analyzing the historical energy performance of industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. Setting energy reduction targets. Controlling current energy performance and, projecting future energy budgets. It is a technique that has proven its effectiveness in achieving energy cost savings in the range five to fifteen percent as a direct consequence of effective performance monitoring, and in creating the management information needed to identify and implement energy efficiency measures. Further, it provides a framework for savings verification when measures are implemented. The working definitions that commonly apply are the following: • Energy Monitoring is the regular collection and analysis of information on energy use. Its purpose is to establish a basis of management control, to determine when and why energy consumption is deviating from an established pattern, and to provide a basis for taking management action where necessary. • Targeting is the identification of levels of energy consumption towards which it is desirable, as a management objective, to work. • Reporting closes the loop, by putting the management information generated in a form that enables ongoing control of energy use, the achievement of reduction targets, and the verification of savings. MT&R is built around one key statistical technique: CUSUM (Cumulative Sum of Differences) analysis of the variance between energy consumption predicted by an energy performance model (EPM), and the actual measured consumption. Ancillary functions that are derived from the CUSUM analysis are a target-setting methodology, and the application of energy control charts for real-time management of performance. The key steps in an effective MT&R process are: • measurement of energy consumption over time • measurement of the independent variables that influence energy consumption (weather, production, occupancy) over corresponding time intervals • development of a relationship (the energy performance model) between energy and the independent variables • historical analysis of energy performance using CUSUM, and application of the CUSUM trend into the future • definition of reduction targets • frequent comparison of actual consumption to targets • reporting of consumption and target variances • taking action to address variances and ensure targets are met. The achievement of energy cost savings is the primary objective of MT&R, but there are other benefits as well, including: • improved budgeting and forecasting • improved product/service costing • tracking and verification of energy efficiency retrofits • opportunities for improved operation and maintenance practices.

The coefficient of performance (COP), energy efficiency ratio (EER), and integrated part-load value (IPLV) are important metrics used to evaluate the energy efficiency of chillers, including both water-cooled and air-cooled chillers. Here's a brief explanation of each metric: Coefficient of Performance (COP): The COP is a measure of the efficiency of a chiller in converting electrical energy into cooling output. It is defined as the ratio of the cooling output (in BTUs or tons) to the electrical input power (in watts) required to produce that cooling output. Mathematically, COP = Cooling Output (BTUs or tons) / Electrical Input Power (watts) A higher COP value indicates better energy efficiency, as more cooling output is achieved per unit of electrical input power. Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): The EER is similar to COP but is specifically used for rating the efficiency of air-conditioning equipment, including chillers. It is defined as the ratio of the cooling output (in BTUs) to the electrical input power (in watts) under standardized conditions (typically at full load and standard operating conditions). Mathematically, EER = Cooling Output (BTUs) / Electrical Input Power (watts) Like COP, a higher EER value indicates better energy efficiency, meaning more cooling output is achieved per unit of electrical input power. Integrated Part-Load Value (IPLV): The IPLV is a standardized measure of chiller efficiency under various operating conditions, including full load and part-load conditions. It accounts for the fact that chillers often operate at part-load conditions rather than at full load. IPLV takes into consideration the chiller's performance at different load levels (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of full load) and assigns a weighted average efficiency value based on these load conditions. It provides a more comprehensive assessment of chiller efficiency compared to COP or EER, as it considers performance across a range of operating conditions typically encountered in real-world applications. In summary, COP, EER, and IPLV are important metrics used to evaluate the energy efficiency of chillers, with IPLV providing a more comprehensive assessment of efficiency across various operating conditions. These metrics help building owners, engineers, and manufacturers make informed decisions regarding chiller selection, system design, and energy management strategies.

Why you should prefer Choosing battery energy storage systems (BESS) over diesel generators (DG) for power backup in India for Commercial & Industrial Sector. 1. Environmental Impact Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): Lithium-Ion Batteries when powered by renewable energy sources have a lower environmental impact. They produce no emissions during operation and can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Diesel Generators (DG): Diesel generators emit greenhouse gases and other pollutants, contributing to air pollution and climate change. They also require regular maintenance to manage emissions. 2. Regulatory Compliance BESS: With growing environmental regulations and incentives for green technologies, BESS can help companies comply with stringent regulations and benefit from subsidies or tax breaks. DG: Regulatory pressures are increasing globally to limit emissions from diesel generators. Compliance with these regulations can be costly and complex. 3. Operational Costs BESS: Although the initial investment in batteries can be high, the operational and maintenance costs are generally lower. BESS have fewer moving parts and don’t require regular fuel purchases. DG: Diesel generators have ongoing fuel costs, and their maintenance can be labor-intensive and costly. Additionally, fuel prices can fluctuate, impacting operational expenses. 4. Efficiency and Reliability BESS: Modern battery systems can provide rapid response times and are highly reliable for short to medium-term power backup. They can be integrated with renewable energy sources for a more sustainable power solution. DG: Diesel generators are reliable for longer durations but can experience wear and tear over time, impacting their efficiency and reliability. 5. Noise Pollution BESS: Battery systems operate silently, making them suitable for environments where noise pollution is a concern. DG: Diesel generators can be noisy, which might be an issue in noise-sensitive areas or residential environments. 6. Energy Storage and Flexibility BESS: Batteries can store excess energy generated from renewable sources (like solar or wind) and provide power when needed. They offer flexibility in energy usage and load management. DG: Diesel generators provide backup power but do not offer energy storage. They are typically used as a last-resort power source. 7. Technological Advancements BESS: The technology for batteries is rapidly advancing, with improvements in energy density, lifecycle, and cost-efficiency. This makes BESS an increasingly viable long-term solution. DG: Diesel generator technology is relatively mature, and while improvements are made, they are generally incremental compared to the advancements in battery technology.

The Role of Energy Audits in Enhancing Efficiency When it comes to maximizing energy efficiency, knowledge is power. Energy audits serve as comprehensive assessments that provide invaluable insights into how energy is used in buildings, businesses, and homes, enabling targeted improvements that can lead to significant cost savings and environmental benefits. Understanding Energy Audits An energy audit is like a health check-up for your building's energy consumption. It involves a thorough examination of energy usage patterns, equipment efficiency, building envelope integrity, and more. Energy auditors, often trained professionals or specialists, conduct on-site inspections, analyze utility bills, and may use advanced tools like thermal imaging to identify areas of energy waste. Identifying Opportunities for Savings The primary goal of an energy audit is to identify opportunities for energy savings. This could include: Upgrading to more efficient lighting, HVAC systems, or appliances Improving insulation and sealing leaks Optimizing heating and cooling schedules Implementing smart technology solutions By pinpointing areas of inefficiency, businesses and homeowners can make targeted investments that deliver maximum impact. Cost-Effective Solutions One of the key benefits of energy audits is their ability to uncover low-cost and no-cost energy-saving opportunities. These are simple changes or adjustments that require minimal investment but can yield significant savings over time. Examples include: Adjusting thermostat settings Installing programmable thermostats Sealing air leaks Replacing outdated equipment with energy-efficient alternatives Environmental Impact Beyond the financial benefits, energy audits also have a positive environmental impact. By reducing energy consumption, businesses can decrease their carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. This aligns with broader sustainability goals and demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility. In summary, energy audits play a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency by providing valuable insights, identifying cost-effective solutions, and reducing environmental impact. For a company looking to cut operating costs and lower utility bills, investing in an energy audit can be a smart decision with long-term benefits. It's a win-win solution that saves money, saves energy, and helps protect the planet for future generations. By Tristan Egbagbe, Research Writer and Content Specialist

Energy Management System EnMS Most of electrical engineers are well aware about the importance & positive outcome by implementing a real energy management system for both customers and electric utilities as well. Moreover, the importance & necessitating to become more resilient against energy costs and availability. ISO family already provided a frame work and released standards to manage and reduce energy use and costs, give the road map and provide a means of validating a best practice approach, auditing, assessment, etc. Nevertheless, the majority of customers and electric utilities are still not implementing the actual and effective energy management system at their end. The fundamental goal of energy management is to produce goods and provide services with the least cost and least environmental effect. The energy management means many things to many identities. For customers ‘’ residential, industrial & commercial’’, energy management basically means mainly the effective use of energy to maximize profits / saving by minimizing the costs and reducing energy bills. For utilities, it means the strategy of adjusting, monitoring and optimizing energy, facilitating strategic planning and forecasting, developing Medium & long-term energy plans and releasing standards, regulations, systems & procedures. Implementing of practical and analyzed Energy management standards is having many advantages for both customer and utility, such as: Energy Saving & bill reduction, Monitoring & identifying Energy consumption patterns, Controlling / reducing / eliminating energy waste, improving operations, improving overall energy performance and efficiency, Lowering carbon footprint & integrating green energy as per applicable regulations and rules, Improving ROI, Identifying the real and necessary energy needs, Regulatory compliance, promoting energy conservation and responsible resource management, encouraging sustainable behaviors, contributing to preserve natural resources, Enabling effective energy benchmarking and performance tracking, and playing a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable energy future. Energy Management System became an essential methodology, culture, awareness, implementation, procedure, standards and habit. #EnergyManagement #EnergySaving #Sustainability

An energy audit is a systematic examination of a facility, building, or process to assess energy consumption, identify inefficiencies, and recommend measures to enhance energy efficiency. This article explores the significance of energy audits, their process, benefits, and the pivotal role they play in fostering a more sustainable and cost-effective approach to energy management. #energy #energyaudit #renewableenergy #greenbuilding #greenenergy #hvac #led

Importance of energy audits in different business and home setups Energy audits are essential in a day to day running of different business and home setups, more so in a time like today where energy demand is ever on the rise. An energy audit is a valuable process that can help both businesses and homes in making prudent and cost-effective financial decisions. The importance of the said audits includes; 1. Energy efficiency insights: An energy audit can help point out the energy leaks/energy losses in your home or business. By identifying these energies loses, you can take targeted actions to improve energy usage and reduce on energy waste. 2. Cost Savings: Energy audits helps reduce on energy loses which subsequently directly translates into money savings. 3. Environmental Impact: By assessing your building’s energy efficiency, an audit contributes to reducing your carbon footprint. It helps you understand how your energy use affects the environment and encourages more sustainable practices. 4. Safety and Comfort: Energy audits can identify safety concerns related to electrical systems, wiring, and ventilation. Ensuring a safe living or working environment is crucial. Additionally, improving energy efficiency enhances overall comfort. 5. Preparation for Renewable Energy: If you plan to implement a renewable energy system, conducting an energy audit beforehand ensures that your building is optimized for efficient energy use. In conclusion, energy audits should not always be looked at as numbers but also as a tool to help in making informed decisions that will benefit your business or your home, the environment and your personal well-being.