Guaranteeing energy availability in the future has become a major challenge for industries. So much so that companies in the field have dedicated themselves to finding ways to promote energy saving , a fact that results in the reduction of its harmful effects on the environment.
Likewise, from a strategic point of view, regulating energy consumption is essential to mitigate costs. From this perspective, conscious use has a full impact on corporate finances, thus avoiding waste and unnecessary expenses.
This article details the 6 best energy saving practices at the industrial level, which will help you contribute to the sustainability and competitiveness of the company.
- Prioritize natural lighting
Natural lighting is achieved by considering the following points:
- Painting the walls with light and neutral colors, as they reflect natural light. In addition to promoting energy saving , this solution brings spaciousness to the environment;
- Increasing — with the help of trained engineers — the dimensions of windows and other openings;
- Using transparent or translucent tiles or sheets.
Adopting these relatively simple measures promotes effective daylighting and helps reduce the use of artificial light sources which, in effect, contribute to increased energy costs.
- Light up with LED lamps
LED lamps have become excellent alternatives in terms of artificial lighting. Basically, this type of lamp requires less energy than mercury or mixed models, in this way, its use favors cost savings and sustainable development.
To further optimize its efficiency, it is interesting to install complementary sensors that detect movement. In this way, the LED lamps are activated only when necessary and as long as there is movement in the place.
- Adapt the environment
Adapting the environment by prioritizing energy savings requires reducing the use of air conditioning equipment, fans and extractors, since their energy consumption can affect the budget planning of the business, something that, without a doubt, you should avoid.
For this reason, industries must invest in natural ventilation solutions, as they allow thermal comfort to be achieved and promote the circulation of fresh air inside without requiring high energy consumption.
Thermal insulation also configures an excellent alternative to balance the temperature and save energy, especially for industries located in regions with extreme climatic conditions, thus suffering from excessive cold and/or intense heat.
To overcome these challenges, it is recommended that the industry insulate its walls and increase the thickness of the glass in the windows, thus generating a more pleasant and thermally balanced internal environment.
- Invest in process automation
The automation of the equipment makes it possible for the systems to operate by themselves in most of the production stages, improving their processes and, in this way, saving energy.
Also, when the machines are deactivated, this type of system usually works in the economy mode, a situation that influences the cost economy. But, ultimately, what kind of actions can we implement to promote the energy economy in the industry?
Here are three ways to automate industrial processes:
Use of thermostat
For example, in a cold room, the thermostat is responsible for keeping the refrigeration system active when the temperature is higher than the programmed one.
In addition to being found in the cameras, this type of resource integrates refrigerators, air conditioning systems, ovens and other devices that require more effective monitoring of temperature and, therefore, energy consumption.
Solar Panel Adoption
Acquiring and installing photovoltaic panels can require the investment of a significant amount of capital, however, the return on investment (ROI) is extremely attractive. This occurs because in the medium and long term, a visible reduction in the energy bill can be verified by virtue of the use of an alternative, renewable and sustainable source.
Use of frequency converters
Variable frequency drives are being used more and more in the industry, especially for their energy saving capabilities.
In essence, this type of component makes it possible to alter the speed of the electric motors according to the needs of the machine, thus preventing it from constantly operating at maximum load.
This oscillation allows saving energy at times of low demand and thus reducing energy costs.
- Focus on equipment maintenance
A machine that does not work properly or has been stopped for a long time can cause problems and make the energy saving plan something far away.
When we have resources that allow us to automate processes, we can schedule maintenance according to the efficiency of each machine and the conditions in real time through remote monitoring and management systems, thus monitoring the productivity of the equipment.
In the case of industries that do not yet have such technology, it is advisable to verify if the machines are used properly and pay attention to the useful life of each piece of equipment.
In effect, this care increases the probability of dealing with mechanical failures and abusive energy consumption before these aspects become more aggressive and expensive problems.
- Raise awareness and train officials
Beyond investing in sustainable facilities, it is essential to make officials aware of the need to save energy by launching internal campaigns that promote the rational use of this type of resource.
As you can see, by following the measures indicated in this article you can promote energy savings in your industry, which results in greater efficiency, productivity, economy and profitability.
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