Industrial Newsbriefs

April 2012

Welcome to this edition of Industrial Newsbriefs, produced by the Washington State University Extension Energy Program, and sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). Please forward this issue to those of your colleagues interested in industrial energy efficiency. View archive 

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Boilers

Steam condensate recovery saves energy

"Why Steam Condensate Should Be Returned to the Boiler," published February 29, 2012, on the Sustainable Plant website, provides a clear justification for returning steam condensate to the boiler, rather than necessitating its replacement with cold, untreated water. Barriers to returning steam condensate are discussed.

Compressed Air

Compressed Air Best Practices

The March 2012 edition of Compressed Air Best Practices is now available for download. This issue’s topic is Plastic Blow Molding; included are studies of efficient practices in plastics compressed air systems, ideas for compressed air storage, an article on pneumatic and vacuum energy optimization, and a preview of the Triennial NPE 2012 International Plastics Exposition.

Energy Management

Global Reporting Initiative: Year in Review

The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), a non-profit, international sustainability reporting framework, has released its 2010/2011 annual review, A New Phase: The Growth of Sustainability Reporting. The report details the impact of GRI on global sustainability and transparency, and shows that sustainability reporting is becoming increasingly popular, with 95% participation among the world’s largest 250 corporations.

Industrial panel on Continuous Improvement

The Roadmap for Continuous Industrial Improvement, a new international partnership formed at the 2012 Energy Efficiency Global Forum , will work together to promote industrial energy efficiency and the international energy management standard ISO 50001. To read about this alliance and other Forum happenings, see "EE Global Announces Industrial Panel on Continuous Improvement," published February 27, 2012, on the Energy Efficiency Alliance (EEA) website.

Power down to save energy

Strategies for automating the daily shutdown of equipment are discussed in "Nissan Plant Reduced Energy Expenditure 30% With Daily Power-Down Regimen," published March 20, 2012, on the Control Engineering website. Using Nissan as an example, the author outlines the steps taken to determine where and how to automate shutdown for equipment not needed after hours.

The future of power plant automation

"Power Generation: Automation Today and Tomorrow," by Dr. Robert Peltier, PE, Editor-in-Chief, Power; it was published in the February 2012 issue of that journal. It is a discussion of the expectation that power plants, behind in automation now, will soon begin to embrace the newest ("third generation") advances in computing technologies, involving both hardware and software.

Transitioning from data storage to data management

"Don't Procrastinate...Innovate! Outside The Box" is a regular column in Maintenance Technology by Ken Bannister, a contributing editor for that trade journal. "Conducting a Legacy Software Migration" is a several-part article that describes how to move from a legacy system that simply collects data to a true management system that produces data-supported reports that can really be used as an asset management tool. Here are the first three parts (future issues of Maintenance Technology will continue to carry the column):

"Tuning Up Your Maintenance Management System" appeared in the September 2011 issue of Maintenance Technology. The author offers seven preliminary steps to take to set up management software so that it can be ready to accept data imported from the earlier system.

"Conducting a Legacy Software Migration" was published in the November 2011 issue of that journal. In this installment, the work of preparing the data properly for a successful migration is discussed.

"Optimizing Your Inventory Database" was carried in the January 2012 issue. Optimization means using the report-ready system for the management of several, not just one or two, pieces of the plant's maintenance effort.

Industrial Heating

Heat exchanger area: bigger is not better

"Increasing Heat Exchanger Area Can Cause Problems," published March 12, 2012, on the Sustainable Plant website, explains why increasing heat exchanger area to compensate for fouling is rarely effective. A system for balancing velocity and pressure by adjusting baffle cut and spacing is described.

Motors

Motor decisions estimation chart

A feature from Motor Decisions Matter (MDM), "No Time to Estimate Savings? No Problem!" appeared in the March 2012 issue of Maintenance Technology. It describes the MDM Simple Savings Chart, a product-neutral tool for estimating annual energy costs and potential savings from upgrading to a higher efficiency motor. The tool can be found, along with other useful resources, on the MDM website.

Policy and Legislation

ACEE and AMMEX respond to AMO budget request

"ACEEE & AMMEX Respond to DOE’s Industrial Program FY2013 Budget Request," published March 16, 2012, by ACEEE, summarizes the reaction of Americans for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) and the Alliance for Materials Manufacturing Excellence (AMMEX) to the proposed increase in funding for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Manufacturing Office (AMO) for FY2013. The organizations applaud the funding increase, and offer specific recommendations as to how the funds should be allocated.  

EPA proposes GHG standard for new power plants

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a new standard to limit greenhouse gas emissions from new power plants. The measure would not impact existing or already permitted plants, and would mirror steps already being taken in the power industry to limit carbon emissions. To learn more, read the March 27, 2012, news release, or "Update: EPA proposes first carbon standard for future power plants," published March 27, 2012, on the Power Engineering website.

Resources

Waste heat recovery

Program materials are available from the teleconference Waste Energy Recovery from Industrial Processes; Emergence of a Key Component of the Nation’s Energy and Economic Future, sponsored by the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) and held March 21, 2012. Presenters explain the processes of distributed generation, waste heat recovery, and CHP, describe the benefits of their incorporation into industrial systems, and discuss emerging policy activities and incentives for their support.

UPCOMING EVENTS AND TRAININGS

Pacific Northwest

Northwest Food Processors Sustainability Summit: Practical Industrial Applications of Sustainability Management Practices
April 18, 2012, Portland, Oregon
One of the keys to the ability of Northwest food processors to remain competitive is to implement sustainable business practices. The Northwest Food Processors Sustainability Summit is the region's premier gathering of food processors, sustainability experts and industry partners working to advance sustainability in the food processing industry. Sessions are focused on practical industrial applications of sustainability management practices. Hear experts and industry personnel present real-life sustainability case studies, success stories and challenges. Network with companies that are implementing sustainability programs/projects to share and learn from their experiences.

Energy Efficiency of Chilled Water Systems and Cooling Towers

April 10-11, 2012, Nampa, Idaho
July 11-19, Pocatello, Idaho
Chilled water systems, which provide cooling for industrial and commercial facilities, often account for a major portion of the energy consumed in these facilities. Attendees will learn how technology improvements can reduce energy costs by more than half. Topics include chiller machinery, refrigerant options, the impact of using variable speed for compressors, system pumps, and cooling towers. In addition, a case study will be presented that shows how an energy-efficient chiller was selected.

Managing Woody Biomass Supply Chain: Impact on Your Business
April 11-13, Seattle, Washington
This year's International Wood Composites Symposium, in collaboration with the Northwest Advanced Renewables Alliance (NARA), offers an industry-driven forum for producers, suppliers, and researchers to focus on competing demands and opportunities in the woody biomass supply chain that impact business success. Listen to resource managers, regulators, harvesters, recyclers, primary and secondary manufacturers in both wood and wood-based composite products and biofuel/bioenergy industries discuss the latest developments in their fields. Understand the impact this rapidly evolving Woody Biomass Supply Chain has on your business.

Biocycle 26th Annual West Coast Conference
April 16-19, 2012, Portland, Oregon
BioCycle West Coast 2012 connects you with sustainable waste management solutions to face today’s challenges: energy, climate change, soil and water protection, jobs, and zero waste goals. Meet the best and brightest managers of projects and facilities to turn municipal, industrial and agricultural wastes into resources – compost, renewable energy, biofuels, soil conditioners and other high value products.

Pumping System Optimization
April 17, 2012, Missoula, Montana
The course will show how the variable speed drive can save power by slowing down the pump speed, which will save energy and reduce cost in the process. With the system running more efficiently, maintenance and operating costs will go down and the mean time between repairs will improve. 

PGE Series: Advanced Ammonia Refrigeration
April 17, 2012, Salem, Oregon
This free, half-day seminar will focus on essential new design practices and operating methods to build and maintain industrial refrigeration systems for a sustainable future. Advanced subjects include improvements in loads and equipment selection, annual energy simulation and actual system performance analysis.

Future Energy Conference 2012
April 25-28, 2012, Portland, Oregon
Now in its sixth year, this conference has become the signature clean energy event of the year, bringing together members of the energy industry, energy project hosts, and users of energy services. The following topics will be included: Policy and Economic Development, the Business of Renewable Energy, the Business of Energy Efficiency, Energy Sector Insights, and an Energy Expo and Trade Show.  Future Energy Conference is sponsored by the Northwest Environmental Business Council (NEBC) and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

Introduction to Energy Data Analysis and KPIs
May 1, 2012, Longview, Washington
Learn how to find the existing opportunities for saving money and energy. Understand how to use the information already available at your company to identify the impact of energy on your business. You will leave this training with tools and resources that will help you effectively use energy productivity data to make improvements that will decrease your operating costs and increase productivity. This training includes practical exercises and in-class discussion. 

Pumping System Assessment Tool (PSAT) Qualified Specialist
May 15-17, 2012, Eugene, Oregon
This primary goal is to increase end user awareness and knowledge of energy efficiency improvement opportunities for pumping systems. This workshop provides an in-depth discussion of energy efficiency factors for pumping systems, with an emphasis on considering the system instead of just components. Indicators and symptoms of potential energy reduction opportunities are discussed. Application and use of the PSAT software and supporting tools will be emphasized.  This course is coordinated by the NEEA Industrial Training project.

PGE Series: Owning & Operating Efficient Motors
May 22, 1012, Wilsonville, Oregon
This free half-day seminar will explore electric motors and systems and demonstrate where and how you might implement energy efficient motors in your facility. Topics covered include electric motor terms and nameplate data, loads and load matching, losses and efficiency.

PGE Series: Variable Frequency Drives
May 23, 2012, Wilsonville, Oregon
This free, half-day seminar explores how adjustable speed drives are applied and how they can provide a more efficient and effective use of electric power, which lowers energy costs, extends equipment life, and reduces overall maintenance costs.

PGE Series: Air Handling Systems
May 24, 2012, Wilsonville, Oregon
This free, half-day seminar provides a foundation for understanding air conditioning systems and discusses how to minimize the cost of your system. The seminar describes a variety of air-handling systems used in commercial and industrial applications. It introduces typical air system components, constant and variable air volume systems, variable air volume flow control, adjustable speed drives, ventilation, economy cycle, and other energy conservation opportunities.

PGE Series: 2011 NEC/OESC Code Change
June 2: Tualatin, OR
This one-day course is designed to assist the student in learning the changes found in the 2011 National Electrical Code that have changed from the 2008 Edition. The course uses power point slides found in the 2011 Analysis of Change and covers the modifications found in the 2011 Oregon Electrical Specialty Code. This class also covers licensing requirements, changes in the Oregon Statutes, alternate method rulings and Statewide Interpretations.

Conveyance Systems Energy Management
June 7, 2012, Portland, Oregon
This training will provide attendees the skills and knowledge necessary to optimize existing pneumatic conveying systems or specify reliable systems to meet conveying requirements. Systems design, operation, component selection, advantages and disadvantages, and other characteristics of different conveying systems will be discussed.

Adjustable Speed Drive Applications and Energy Efficiency
Multiple Dates and Locations:
July 31: Redmond, OR
August 21: Pocatello, ID
August 23: Billings, MT
October 4: Roseburg, OR
November 15: Yakima, WA
This course addresses the choices available and relevant issues regarding the use of adjustable speed drives (ASD) with electric motors, and demonstrates the energy cost savings and other benefits made possible by this technology. In this course we explore how adjustable speed drives work and ways to assess the savings. Variable frequency drives (VFD) are the most common speed control method and is the major focus of the course content which will cover the benefits of pulse width modulation technology and well as discovering and mitigating harmful electromagnetic interference that can cause motor failure. This course is coordinated by the NEEA Industrial Training project.

Industrial Refrigeration Systems Energy Management
June 5: Bellevue, WA
October 23: Hermiston, OR
October 24, 2012, Caldwell, Idaho
With a focus on industrial refrigeration systems that use ammonia as the refrigerant, this training will equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to reduce energy usage and operating costs, and improve the reliability of refrigeration systems. With the knowledge and tools gained, past attendees and their customers have implemented low/no cost strategies resulting in annual energy savings greater than $50,000.

PGE Series: Motors and Motor Controls
September 19 – November 7, 2012, Wednesdays, 6:00-9:00 PM, Tualatin, Oregon
In this in-depth course, you’ll learn about motor fundamentals, electrical codes, starting, braking, speed control, variable frequency drives, over current protection, overload protection, motor controls and drive system efficiency. Attendees may be eligible to earn up to 21 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for their Oregon or Washington electrical license, professional development credit hours, and will receive a certificate of completion.

PGE Series: Compressed Air Systems
November 11, 2012, Wilsonville, Oregon
This free half-day seminar provides an overview of how compressed air systems work and practical advice about making the most of your compressed air system investment. Compressed air systems can be one of the largest energy consumers in your facility. Learn how to start saving energy and money today.

Webinars and Online Courses

Energy Management Opportunities for Industrial Customers
April 24, 2012, 10:00-11:00 AM PST
July 9, 10:00-11:00 AM PST
September 25, 8:00-9:00 AM PST
This webinar on industrial energy efficiency will cover the basics, including kW versus kWh, power factor, and more. We will also discuss end-use technologies such as motors, boiler or furnace heating systems, compressed air, industrial heat pumps, induction heating, and HVAC. You will learn to identify top energy-efficiency opportunities and potential savings for each; valuable information that will help you stay within your energy budget.

Energy Efficiency Financial Analysis
Webinar: April 5, 2012, 1:00-2:00 PM PST
This webinar will discuss key financial concepts that lay the foundation for investment analysis, including: simple payback, time value of money, net present value, internal rate of return, and life-cycle cost analysis.

Engaging Supply Chains in Energy Management
Webcast: April 10, 2012, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST
During this Webcast the presenters will focus on organizational efforts to engage supply chains in energy efficiency and implement energy management systems. The presentation will also provide guidance on how to make a corporate business case for supply chain energy management.

Superior Energy Performance: Orientation for Prospective Verification Bodies
Webinar: April 18, 2012, 10:00-11:00 AM PST
This webinar is targeted to organizations who are interested in seeking to become Superior Energy Performance Verification Bodies and thus be qualified to certify facilities for conformance with ISO 50001 and verify that these facilities meet additional Superior Energy Performance requirements.

Superior Energy Performance Webinars
This webinar series will provide small, medium, and large manufacturers with the information they need to prepare for implementing an energy management system. The series is divided into four parts and is based on the DOE eGuide and the ISO 50001 standard. Each webinar includes suggested activities tied to the eGuide and helpful to understanding the information presented. Space is limited. Reserve your webinar seat today!
Part 1: Introduction to an Energy Management System
April 19, 2012, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST
Part 2: Planning for an Energy Management System
May 2, 2012, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST
Part 3: The Do and Check Processes of an Energy Management System
May 10, 2012, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST
Part 4: The Act Process and Improving your Energy Management System
May 10, 2012, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST

Webinar: Energy Management Opportunities for Industrial Customers
April 24, 2012, 10:00-11:00 AM
This webinar on industrial energy efficiency will cover the basics, including kW versus kWh, power factor, and more. We will also discuss end-use technologies such as motors, boiler or furnace heating systems, compressed air, industrial heat pumps, induction heating, and HVAC. You will learn to identify top energy-efficiency opportunities and potential savings for each; valuable information that will help you stay within your energy budget.

Tax Rebates/Credits Available for Energy Efficiency Actions
Webcast: May 8, 2012
Presenters will share how to increase company awareness of available programs and how to establish inter-company relationships between energy teams and tax departments.

Webinar: Advances in Lamps and Ballasts
May 17, 2012, 8:00 -9:00 AM PST
A recent industry survey of over 100 lighting manufacturers identified the latest technologies in fluorescent and metal halide lamps and ballasts. Attend this webinar to learn more about recent advances in lighting, from extended T8/T5 lamp life, to cold weather lamps, NEMA Premium ballasts, reduced wattage and high-temperature high bay fluorescents, radio frequency lighting, LEDs, the latest advances in daylighting, occupancy sensors, and more.

Webinar: Adjustable Speed Drives
Two Dates:
June 8, 2012, 1:00-2:00 PM PST
October 4, 2012, 10:00-11:00 AM PST
In the right applications, adjustable speed drives (ASDs) offer great energy-saving potential from high power factor to improved speed control, soft-start capabilities, and more. This webinar will discuss how they work, the savings potential, best applications, sizing, and how to solve variable frequency drive (VFD) power-quality issues.

Webinar: Developing an Energy Plan
August 3, 2012, 8:00-9:00 AM
An energy-management plan is a great way to improve efficiency and encourage energy conservation. In addition to cost savings, a successful plan will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase productivity, lower maintenance costs, and more. From hiring and training an energy manager, to financing an energy plan, this webinar provides the tools and resources to help you develop and implement a successful plan tailored to your needs.

Webinar: Introduction to Compressed Air Systems
October 24, 2012: 8:00-9:00 AM PST and 12:00-1:00 PM PST
 At this introduction webinar you will learn highlights from our four-hour seminar of how compressed air systems work and practical advice about making the most of your compressed air system investment. The four-hour seminar on this subject is scheduled November 11 in Wilsonville.

Webinar: Energy Auditing and Troubleshooting
November 6, 2012, 1:00-2:00 PM
This webinar will show you how to estimate energy consumption by end use without the need for submetering. We will focus on refrigeration, compressed air end uses, HVAC, lighting, and office equipment. In addition, you will receive audit checklists for energy conservation. Several third-party auditing tools will also be reviewed.

MORE TRAININGS IN INDUSTRIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY

For a listing of other upcoming industrial energy efficiency trainings, visit the following websites:

Energy Events Calendar

Northwest Regional Training Calendar

U.S. Department of Energy Industrial Best Practices Training Calendar

Input Requested: Is there something else you would like to see in Industrial Newsbriefs?

If you have thoughts or ideas for what you would like to see in this publication, please email suggestions to Talia Mathews at MathewsT@energy.wsu.edu . We strive to keep this publication as useful and relevant as possible to you, our readers.


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