The cost of compressed air : An Indispensable but expensive energy source
Compressed air is a costly form of energy, as its compression involves a high energy input, and much of the energy is lost as heat. Compressed air is usually generated by electricity in industry. Around 10 % of industrial electricity consumption in industrialized countries is used to generate compressed air.
Why are compressed air leaks so costly?
- Energy waste: Compressing air is an energy intensive process
- Maintenance and repairs: Faster wear and tear due to frequency of operation and high loads
- System leakage: Production problems when system not able to maintain required pressure (loss typically amount to 20 - 40%
- Electricity prices: Compressors uses large amount of electricity and is affected by price fluctuations
Therefore, it is critical to monitor and optimize the efficiency of compressed air generation:
1. Differentiate compressed air demand between leakages and production.
2. With the demand clearly defined: Generation, treatment and compressors can be efficiently optimized and designed to meet actual, minimized demand.
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