portfolio offers a range of equipment and efficiency-enhancing accessories to decrease energy usage . “ We constantly develop our portfolio to reduce energy consumption . We also aim at maximizing the lifespan and recyclable alternatives ,” says Saku Vanhala , Head of Product Management at Sulzer .
Sulzer energy audit scope and resulting energy savings
the scope of the audit . The selected scope may contain all equipment at a certain site or process . At large sites , the audits can be done step by step on a predefined selection of equipment .
The audit may cover only equipment with performance issues or a selection that is expected to have the biggest energy saving potential . Typically , the focus is narrowed down to pumps running less than optimally , leaving out the ones with variable frequency drives , low annual running time , and pumps that already operate close to their optimal point .
The pumps with the biggest improvement potential are identified and reviewed with the customer . “ It is not uncommon that the customer is already satisfied with the audit at this phase , even though the most valuable part is yet to come ,” says Pekka Salmi , Head Business Development CSS at Sulzer .
Energy audit report and recommendations
Following the analysis , the customer receives a comprehensive report that contains the current energy usage , identified savings potential , and a detailed list of recommended actions for decreasing energy consumption . To assure usability and easy adoption , the recommendations are completed with cost estimates and payback times for the equipment and site work .
The recommended actions are tailored to the customer ’ s needs and
An energy audit supports companies in the modernization of their equipment base .
preferences . Usually , they consist of replacement and upgrading opportunities for pumping and mixing equipment . In addition to the hydraulic performance improvement a broader installation audit offers ways to improve the entire installation by modernizing and optimizing the construction of the equipment . Moreover , environmental sustainability is always considered .
The report lists detailed actions to be carried out on the equipment base , enabling reduced energy consumption . The suitable product range , adequate dimensioning , materials of construction , and accessories are specified according to the applications .
“ The concept relies on Sulzer ’ s expertise on pumping equipment and process knowledge , while supporting the environmental sustainability goals mutually important for both our clients and us ,” Pekka Salmi summarizes .
Improved energy savings in pumps , agitators , and turbocompressors
As a full-line supplier , Sulzer ’ s
Retrofitting is often the most costeffective method to improve the performance of larger pumps . This involves modifying the impellers to optimize the hydraulic
performance or changing the entire hydraulic kit , enabling the pump to operate at the best efficiency point . For smaller pumps , it may be more cost-effective to replace the equipment with more efficient and reliable equivalents .
Agitators can also be retrofitted for better energy efficiency . As the selection of Sulzer ’ s agitators is continuously developed , their performance is improved with each new generation . Most agitators can be upgraded by changing into a newer and more efficient propeller .
In addition to pumping and mixing processes , savings can be found also in compressed air applications . Usually , the best way to drive business performance and sustainability goals of turbocompressors is to upgrade them into more modern and efficient models . Sulzer ’ s oil-free high-speed turbocompressors provide significant energy savings over conventional compressors . Additionally , with nonwear magnetic bearing units , they offer considerable long-term costsavings with reduced maintenance .
To take the entire array of circular economy into account , the customer might prefer a preowned replacement pump . Sulzer refurbishes and repurposes usable pumping equipment . In addition to smaller environmental impacts , the customers benefit from reduced investment costs and faster lead times . The concept extends equipment life cycle while at the same time offering reduced disposal costs and increased CAPEX savings .
For more information , visit www . sulzer . com
Issue 67 PECM 21