Armstrong Cement, a Portland Cement and Mortar manufacturing company in Butler County, has documented energy savings of $107,000 a year thanks to a Pollution Prevention/Energy Efficiency study conducted by the Electrotechnology Application Center and PennTAP Partnership.

Video Blog: Armstrong Cement Saves $107,000 in Energy Costs

All of the energy savings opportunities recommended in a 2005 study involving the compressed air system were implemented in 2006 at a cost of $108,500. These include repairing leaks, elimination of compressed air for material blow off, replacement of thermostatic drain valves with demand type, no-waste drains, installation of a blower to replace compressed air in a particular application, reduction of compressor air pressure and installation of sensor controls.

Reports show these implementations resulted in an estimated 2,520,000 kWh/yr. reduction in electric power consumption, from a previous 42,000,000 kWh/yr. The corresponding indirect reductions in power plant emissions are estimated to be 3,000,000 lb./yr. in carbon dioxide, 6,800 lb./yr. nitrogen oxide, and 31,000 lb./yr. sulfur dioxide, translating to an overall cost savings of $107,000 per year.

The Energy Management Institute located at the Electrotechnology Application Center at Northampton Community College provides manufacturing companies with the skills necessary to effectively manage energy efficiency through reductions in energy consumption and costs.

EMI performs investment-grade energy, pollution prevention, and process assessments for industrial and large commercial clients; offers distance learning courses on energy management and process heating; evaluates the technical and economic feasibility of renewable energy installations, combined heat and power; and a variety of other services.

For more information, contact Pete Roberts, EMI Manager, at 610 861-5367 or send e-mail to: plroberts@etctr.com or visit the Electrotechnology Application Center and PennTAP Partnership websites.

3/14/2008