How To Reduce Energy Consumption in the Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing industry is the fifth largest employer in the United States. But unfortunately, it’s also one of the most energy-intensive industries.
That means saving energy during the manufacturing process can significantly help reduce global energy consumption. It also lowers operating costs.
Check out these six energy-saving tips all facilities can benefit from implementing.
1. Power Down Equipment
Every piece of essential technology in a manufacturing facility runs on electricity. In 2018, the industrial sector used nearly 27,000 trillion Btu, with much of it going toward manufacturing.
Shutting down equipment at the end of the day is a must. It may seem silly, but this simple task is sometimes overlooked.
Whenever the facility is not in use, fully power down all the equipment to save energy.
2. Upgrade Equipment
Equipment in good working condition is more energy-efficient than old or malfunctioning equipment. By retro-commissioning, facilities can identify equipment operating below optimal standards.
Then with retro-fitting, they can replace the outdated or inefficient equipment. Retro-fitting isn’t just great for reducing energy consumption. It also helps to save on energy costs over time.
3. Evaluate Compressed Air Systems
Air leaks can be a significant source of wasted energy. Leaks can also lessen the effectiveness of other equipment.
Correcting leaks will immediately lead to energy and cost savings. Facilities can identify leaks via an air leak survey or ultrasonic detection equipment.
Installing variable speed air compressors is another great way to make air systems more energy-efficient. See more here to learn about these compressors.
4. Use Energy-Efficient Lighting and Designs
Again, this may seem silly to mention, but using energy-efficient lighting helps with managing energy use. This is because facilities need to be well-lit. Compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) make a difference.
Manufacturing plants can also turn off or remove lights from non-essential areas.
For new facilities, take this one step further and use energy-efficient designs. This means building more skylights or windows to let in natural light.
5. Keep Up With Maintenance
It’s easy for industrial buildings to become tired. But staying up-to-date with the walls, doors, windows, and roofs is great for saving energy.
For example, fixtures that aren’t airtight can cause cool air or heat to escape the facility, which is a waste. Therefore, staying on top of maintenance is vital. Having a proper HVAC system and ventilation is also crucial.
Not to mention, keeping buildings fresh is essential to boost employee morale. Workers are more positive and productive in pleasing environments. It also helps when they are comfortable and not too hot or cold.
6. Get Employees Involved
No one in the facility can save energy on their own. So getting all employees, managers, and senior-level executives on board will take energy savings to the next level.
With teamwork, everyone will be motivated to do their best in reducing the facility’s carbon footprint.
Follow These Tips in the Manufacturing Process To Save Energy
By following these tips, facilities can do the planet, and their wallets, a service in lowering their consumption during the manufacturing process.
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Samantha Gaines wrote this article on behalf of FreeUp. FreeUp is the fastest-growing freelance marketplace in the US. FreeUp only accepts the top 1% of freelance applicants. Click here to get access to the top freelancers in the world.
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