THE SITUATION
A factory manufacturing laundry cleaning and fabric softener products was aiming to reduce their electricity consumption, both to help them achieve sustainability goals and to combat rising energy costs. The use of compressed air is widespread across the plant. For example, in moving and measuring the raw materials involved in creating the detergent products, and in the filling and packaging processes.
THE SOLUTION
The customer contacted the team at the local HAYLEY DEXIS branch for assistance. Based on significant savings delivered for other similar customers, an Air Leak Detection Survey was recommended. The date was set and a HAYLEY DEXIS Fluid Power engineer visited the site, armed with an Ultraprobe 3000 ultrasonic leak detector, which shows a decibel reading for each point of leakage discovered. All leaks were also tagged and photographed. The readings were entered onto an Excel spreadsheet which calculates the cost of each leak based on an assumed electricity cost of 34p per kWh. Once compiled, the report was submitted to the Engineering Manager.
"ALL LEAKS WERE PHOTOGRAPHED AND TAGGED FOR EASY REFERENCE AT A LATER STAGE"
THE RESULT
The report made for compelling reading, with a total annual leakage detected to the value of £47,628. An estimated cost for the repairs was also provided in the final report; a minimal amount no greater than £5000. Not only will the customer secure a significant reduction in thgeir electricity costs, if they decide to make all recommended fixes, but they will also be able to demonstrate a contribution towards their environmental sustainability goals.