Energy

ENERGY CONSERVATION

COMPRESSED AIR AUDITS

Embarking on a journey toward energy savings begins with embracing simple, cost-effective solutions. More often than not, these straightforward approaches provide substantial returns on your energy-saving investments.

It’s common for companies to gravitate towards high-tech solutions, overlooking simpler, less costly alternatives, only to find the return on investment (ROI) less than satisfying.

Here’s a breakdown of the analysis levels we offer:

System Review (1 to 2 days):

• Engage with facility personnel to pinpoint issues, challenges, and areas of concern.
• Collect data on compressor models, control methods, and their locations within the facility.
• Review hours of operation, energy costs (demand, peak, and off-peak), current discharge pressure, and minimum required system pressure.
• Log data on compressors and pressures to establish a baseline of system demand dynamics.
• Deliver a comprehensive report on findings.

System Assessment (2 to 3 days):

• Includes all components of a System Review.
• Conduct a walk-through and evaluation of demand-side issues such as:
  • High volume users in inappropriate applications.
  • Areas sensitive to low pressure.
  • Air leaks.
• Provide a detailed report on findings.

System Audit (3 to 7 days):

• Incorporates all elements listed in System Review and System Assessment.
• Data log compressors, monitor pressure, and when feasible, airflow throughout the system while analyzing complete system dynamics.
• Evaluate compressor control set-points, list all drying & filtering equipment by size, type, and location.
• Assess dryer load factors, inlet and outlet pressure, total pressure drop, and fluctuations.
• Catalog Receivers — size, location, dry or wet, primary or secondary pressures.
• Detail Condensate Drains — listing all by type and location, noting bypasses and ease of maintenance check.
• Examine the distribution system, including piping layout, size & type, whether looped or branched.
• Quantify air-consuming equipment, noting pressure & flow requirements.
• Identify energy reduction opportunities and system improvement benefits.
• Submit a comprehensive written report of findings and recommendations.

A Word on “Free” Audits:

Occasionally, a compressed air salesperson might offer a free audit, employing data loggers on your compressors, and then presenting a report showcasing significant energy savings potential with a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) compressor.

However, tread with caution. These so-called free audits often exaggerate savings and serve as a sales tool for promoting VSD Compressors. Their “free” nature is subsidized by the potential sale of a VSD compressor. If offered a free audit, challenge them to provide a guarantee on the projected savings.

Remember, the value of what you receive is often reflected in what you pay for it!