COMPRESSED AIR SYSTEM MODIFICATIONS IMPROVE EFFICIENCY AT A PLASTICS BLOW MOLDING PLANT

摘要

In 1997, Southeastern Container performed modifications to the compressed air system at their blow molding plant in Enka, North Carolina. The project was based on a survey of the plant's compressed air system performed by North Carolina State University's (NCSU) Industrial Extension Service. The project allowed the plant's compressed air system to operate more efficiently, which resulted in significant compressed air energy savings and better production. The total energy savings from the implementation of the modifications were $180,000 (7,400,000 kWh) per year, which represent over 16% of their compressed air electricity costs. In addition, maintenance costs were reduced by approximately 75%. Because the project's cost was $80,000, the simple payback was less than 6 months.