Energy consumption: Improved combustion analysis techniques reduce energy consumption

摘要

WHILE energy prices continue to fluctuate, energy remains the second leading cost pressure (behind only raw materials) currently affecting most manufacturers. Some of the biggest culprits are incinerators, crackers, process heaters and other energy-intensive combustion-based equipment. The harsh operating conditions associated with combustion analysis applications can eat up a sensor in no time, resulting in inaccurate and unreliable sensor measurements. This can make it nearly impossible to control these processes adequately. However, new analysis techniques, such as tuneable diode laser spectroscopy (TDLS), can improve efficiency, maximise throughput, reduce emissions and improve safety in combustion analysis applications. ABB, Siemens, Vaisala and Yokogawa all currently offer TDLS technology for process measurements. Most energy-intensive operations, such as those found in a refinery or chemical plant, experience considerable variability in energy consumption due to changing operating conditions, equipment degradation, fluctuating market conditions, and inefficient control strategies.