CONCLUSION
The energy audits at Carbery Milk Products and Wyeth Medica identified ways in which the operating costs of the compressed air systems could be significantly reduced and system performance improved. Most of the savings identified were in the areas of reducing losses and bottlenecks on the systems, together with improving compressor control. Although the recommendations made in these two case studies are site specific, they could be broadly applied to other compressed air systems.

It was clear from both case studies that properly maintained compressors operate more efficiently. It was also clear that air consumption needs to be monitored and evaluated if it is to be properly controlled. Savings can be made by matching compressor loading as accurately as possible to air demand. Both studies illustrate the fact that significant savings can be achieved by implementing a programme to continuously monitor and repair leaks.

The implementation of the type of changes proposed above would not only result in financial savings, it would also free up considerable amounts of generating capacity, allowing the site to expand further without the need for investment in new compressor capacity.

For further information on energy saving technologies and initiatives, contact:
Irish Energy Centre, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland. Tel: 01.836 9080. Fax: 01.837 2848.