Evaluation of the theoretical potential for energy conservation in seven basic industries

Abstract

This study is an effort to determine the minimum theoretical energy requirements in seven basic industries through a thermodynamic analysis of the processes employed in each industry. The study includes the steel, copper, aluminum, glass, synthetic rubber, selected plastics, and paper industries. Results of the calculations for these seven industries include the minimum theoretical energy, the efficiency of selected unit processes, and the effect of certain process changes on the energy use. A computer model was developed to perform the necessary calculations. The model performs the customary energy balances based on the first law of thermodynamics; availability losses are calculated according to the second law of thermodynamics. The results identify where large energy or availability losses occur. The information in the report will help direct the attention of process engineers to those operations which offer the greatest potential for overall fuel savings. (205 references) (GRA)