Reader Feedback – 2007-11-15

Don’t overlook minor air leaks, and look for energy savings “Finding the miss-ssssssss-ing air loss in your compressor system” (Plant Engineering Live) really highlights the concern in our industry. As a compressed air distributor, many of our customers don’t realize that the initial cost of the compressor and maintenance is minor when compared to electrical costs.

Don’t overlook minor air leaks, and look for energy savings

“Finding the miss-ssssssss-ing air loss in your compressor system” (Plant Engineering Live) really highlights the concern in our industry. As a compressed air distributor, many of our customers don’t realize that the initial cost of the compressor and maintenance is minor when compared to electrical costs.

Southern California Edison, states that a 1/2-inch-sized compressed air leak can cost $4,800 per month!

At LANS Company, we do everything we can to minimize these expenses for our customers. Just a few tips to share with your readers:

1. Don’t overlook those “minor” air leaks and repair piping.

2. Maintain the compressor. A dirty oil removal filter can waste 2% of your electric bill, while a soiled inlet filter can waste 3% and a clogged air/oil separator up to 5%.

3. Purchase a premium efficient motor. Not only do you save big bucks on your electrical bill, but Edison offers significant rebates that offset the initial cost.

4. Consider a no-loss auto drain from BEKO.

5. Size the compressor based on the CFM you typically need. Don’t oversize your compressor. If you can afford it, purchase a back-up unit to turn on only as additional air is demanded.

Shannon Richards
LANS Company Inc.
www.lanscompany.com

Plant Engineering
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Plant Engineering Staff

Since 1947, plant engineers, plant managers, maintenance supervisors and manufacturing leaders have turned to Plant Engineering for the information they needed to run their plants smarter, safer, faster and better. Plant Engineering‘s editors stay on top of the latest trends in manufacturing at every corner of the plant floor. The major content areas include electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automation engineering and maintenance and management.