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Energy savings with compressed air

Journal Article · · Energy Engineering
OSTI ID:203850
 [1]
  1. Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ., Blacksburg, VA (United States). Industrial Energy Center
The production of compressed air can be one of the most expensive processes in manufacturing facilities. Annual operating costs of air compressors, dryers and supporting equipment can account for up to 70% of the total electric bill. Because the greatest single cost of manufacturing may be attributed to compressed-air, it follows that the greatest potential for energy conservation may also exist with the compressed-air equipment. Opportunities for cost savings related to compressed air include, but are not limited to, the following: compressor waste heat recovery; compressed-air leak reduction; the use of outside air for compressor intakes; compressor control; air-pressure reduction; compressor selection (type, size, etc.); and internal combustion engine-driven air compressor. This paper shows that several energy conservation opportunities exist that are simple to understand and cost-effective to implement. Compressed-air systems should be an integral part of every energy management program.
OSTI ID:
203850
Journal Information:
Energy Engineering, Journal Name: Energy Engineering Journal Issue: 6 Vol. 92; ISSN EENGDO; ISSN 0199-8595
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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