Energy Conservation in Foundries

摘要

Energy conservation and efficiency is not a one-time operation for any industry; it is a continuing exercise that crucially effects not only the operations and economics of an industrial plant, but also the country's economy. It has, therefore, long-term corporate implications, a well-thought-out action plan and a continuing monitoring system. Such a systematic approach goes beyond the purely short-term energy conservation efforts. It assumes the character and dimensions of a forward-looking energy management system, as a matter of corporate strategy, which would substantially cut down the energy cost, and improve overall productivity and profits on a long-term basis. Immediate energy conservation efforts will no doubt result in some energy efficiency and reduction in production cost. But in the long run, it is innovative modification of existing production facilities and adoption of energy-efficient technologies that will have greater impact on reduced energy consumption and optimization. These will result in bigger savings in energy not only at the industry level, but help bring about a large measure of energy economy at the national level. With depleting energy resources, and ever-increasing energy costs, it is imperative to reduce and optimize energy consumption in different unit operations by controlling process parameters, high capacity utilization and selection of energy efficient technology, systems and equipment. Many foundries are going to face the situation of increasing casting demands while there are more and more energy shortages (coupled with the high cost of energy), restricting their casting production capacities. Foundrymen will therefore need to pay more and more attention toward the energy-saving opportunities available to them. Harnessing these opportunities would enable them to handle the growing casting demand and also increase their profitability.