Investing in an on-site industrial gas generator is a great way to reduce your environmental footprint and your operating costs. Once you
have taken this important step, there are some other things you can do to maximize your gas generation energy savings. Here are seven of
them.
1. Find & fix leaks
Compressed
air plays an essential role in the generation of industrial gases. On average, the operators of air compressors lose 20% of the air they
produce to leaks. Finding and fixing them is a very easy and sensible action.
There are various technologies and services available for assessing the integrity of your compressed air system. You should take advantage
of them periodically. They range from sophisticated leak detectors to simple measures like using soapy water to find leaks.
You should also examine your industrial gas system. After all, you are not generating your nitrogen, oxygen or other industrial gas only to
have it escape through leaks.
2. Reduce transportation emissions for extra gas generation energy savings
Companies
trying to reduce their CO2 footprint often overlook transportation emissions. However, these are a significant factor – even when it comes
to the on-site generation of industrial gases.
It is true that your generator eliminates the frequent trips from vendors dropping off liquid or bottled gas. On the other hand, there is
the issue of having technicians visit your facility to perform maintenance or other work.
To minimize these transport expenses and emissions, you should at least try to consolidate any maintenance visits for your equipment. Even
better is the use of ICONS, an innovative technology from Pneumatech. It allows you to remotely monitor and analyze your generator’s
performance. ICONS also offers valuable tips on how to address potential problems, which results in fewer maintenance visits.
3. Optimize your compressor conditions
The
conditions where the air compressor for your on-site gas generation is located are more important than many people think.
As a rule of thumb, you want to keep the ambient temperature around your compressor low. This offers significant gas generation energy
savings. For every reduction of 5 °C, you can achieve energy savings of 1.5%. That quickly adds up.
You also want to keep the air free from dust and moisture. This ensures that you have to pay less (and spend less energy) on air treatment.
Finally, you should reduce your air pressure as much as possible. For every bar that you “save,” your energy consumption will go down by
about 7%.
By adding gas storage vessels, you can accommodate peak demands that would otherwise require a larger compressor that uses more energy.
4. Use energy-saving technologies
Compressing
air (and therefore also the generation of industrial gases) consumes a lot of energy. Fortunately, there are now lots of technologies that
can reduce that demand significantly.
Here is an example: Are you still using a traditional fixed-speed compressor? You can lower your energy costs by more than 50% by using a
highly efficient compressor with variable speed drive (VSD) instead.
High-efficiency gas generators also come with features that can lower your energy use significantly. Pneumatech PPOG HE oxygen generators,
for example, come with the Variable Flow Saver algorithm that generates 70% energy savings at low load.
5. Properly size your equipment
Correctly
sizing your equipment is another important way to achieve gas generation energy savings. This is an issue that those generating their
industrial gas on-site tend to overlook.
Most importantly, you want to make sure that the equipment can meet your demand. However, you will waste a lot of energy by choosing
equipment that is unnecessarily large. To avoid this problem, consult an expert to make sure you get the sizing right.
6. Monitor your gas system
With
the ICONS remote monitoring technology, you can always keep an eye on the performance of your system. This allows you to react to changing
conditions, such as a varying demand.
For example, ICONS may tell you that your energy usage goes up for no apparent reason. This can help you identify leaks or maybe somebody
simply left a valve open. There are many factors that could contribute to a waste of energy, so you should take advantage of ICONS for any
equipment for which it is available.
7. Use alternative energy sources
Granted,
as opposed to the other tips, this will require a substantial initial investment. However, it will pay off quickly, especially at a time
of high energy prices. In addition, investments in green energy are often subsidized by governments with tax breaks or other incentives.
That will allow you to recoup that initial investment even sooner. And, of course, using green energy is one of the best ways to
significantly reduce your CO2 output.
Bonus tip: Achieve gas generation energy savings by replacing inefficient equipment
Did
you implement some or all of these recommendations but feel that your energy bill is still too high? Then you should consider replacing
your current gas generation system with newer, more energy efficient equipment.
Yes, that constitutes an additional investment. But you can talk to a Pneumatech expert to calculate how much energy you can save and how
quickly that investment will pay off.
Pneumatech gives oxygen to your business. With the PPOG series, Pneumatech offers an attractive replacement for traditional oxygen supply with very interesting returns on investment.
The PPOG1-120 series uses Pressure Swing Adsorption technology to extract oxygen from compressed air, resulting in oxygen purity levels up to 95%.
The PPOG 2-18 HE series is a true game changer in on-site oxygen generation. 30% more efficient than traditional oxygen generators, the PPOG HE gives you the oxygen volume, purity and reliability you need at a massively reduced cost and a smaller environmental footprint.
PSA Oxygen Generators
With the PPOG series, Pneumatech offers an attractive replacement for traditional oxygen supply with very interesting returns on investment.
Discover the inner workings, versatile applications, and numerous benefits of an N2 generator. This revolutionary machine effectively separates nitrogen from compressed air, comprised of 78% N2 and 21% O2. A gas generator stands out as the easiest, most flexible, and economically viable method for securing your own nitrogen supply. Elevate your professional approach and embrace the efficiency and sustainability offered by on-site nitrogen generation, exclusively available in New Zealand.
Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!
Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and we’ve grown into a nationwide company with international support and a
reputation for quality and reliability.We look after all things compressed air for your business!
Reciprocating, Screw, air compressors
Vacuum pumps
Nitrogen
An extensive line of air treatment components
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, Alup, Pneumatech, and Quincy compressors are used extensively around the world in industries
ranging from oil and gas to food, automotive and farming, and we bring you these world class compressors here in the land of the long white
cloud.Our technicians are compressed air equipment experts and are dedicated to addressing customer needs. Supported by a 13 locations
nationwide, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air equipment and parts available today in New Zealand.
Reliability and Efficiency
With Ash Air compressors, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our
efforts on the following:
Air compressor leaks can be a substantial source of wasted energy in any system, sometimes wasting 20-30% of a compressor's production.
Worst of all, a poorly maintained compressor can have a leak rate expected to equal 20% of total compressed air...
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Choosing the right compressor is essential to your long-term satisfaction and maybe, to the profitability of your business. Many times
compressors are based on a single factor alone, such as horsepower or tank size, which is only part of the story.
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In oil injected screw compressors, there is a thin layer of oil found between the rotors to create a seal and maintain
proper efficiency as the compression occurs. The unfortunate side effect of this solution is that oil may carry over to the point of use in
your air system. This can be mitigated by having correct filtration in place to remove the oil contaminants in your air. Additionally, many
individuals may decide to opt for a completely oil-free solution, with the use of a scroll compressor or water injected screw
compressor.
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Most businesses concentrate on the air compressor and consider the piping as a secondary concern. The piping system can make or break your
business. Faulty, inefficient piping can cause pressure loss and lost power. Keeping a close eye on the overall layout, installations and
maintenance of your air piping system will help keep your business running at its’ optimal efficiency.
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Our #1 Focus is Customer Service! Whether you have questions about which compressor is right for you, or if you’re ready to
improve your operations and start saving on expenses. Ash Air has been around for over 40 years because we offer reliable and
hardworking air compressors, vacuum pumps, and services as well as expert advice and support.Read More…
If your daily business operations depend heavily on having compressed air, this question is extremely important. Should you repair your
broken compressor or get a new one?
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An oil analysis can prevent problems later down the road. It's often been referred to as the blood test for your compressor. Just like a
blood test can tell you about your health and early alerts to impending problems, an analysis can do the same for your compressor.
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Did you know that pressure drops and leaks are the two largest areas of energy loss on your air compressors? It’s easy to understand why a
leaking pipe or fitting creates energy loss. Pressure drops are not quite as noticeable, since you cannot hear ...
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Whenever anything doesn't work properly, it's frustrating and we get it. If this is your first time experiencing troubles with your dryer,
you're probably unsure where to even start. Getting your dryer repaired and back up and working is critical to ...
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Screw compressors are helpful for an enormous range of applications such as air filling, packaging, tools, HVAC control, and more! One
possible drawback is the amount of electricity they use; air compressors can be a huge drain on energy if used ine...
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Considering installing your air compressor outside? Think again. The temptation to save space may sound enticing, but in the long haul is
will cost you.
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Most air compressors require constant oil lubrication to prevent friction on the pistons or screws and other moving parts. To make sure your
air compressor is running efficiently, it is important to check your oil level regularly and to know how much...
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Have you heard of the term "Total Air Solutions"? A total air solution means everything that goes with the compressor for your
business’s air system. 90% of companies require more than just an air compressor.
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When speaking of air compressors, compressed air treatment is a process that dehumidifies and cleans air before entering the compressor.
Most commonly, this process involves air filters and an air dryer.
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Having a second compressor can come in handy and keep your business always up and running. The configuration of the second unit can be as a
backup machine, or as a redundant unit with your other compressor, or as a backup if your main compressor goes...
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One large benefit to a speed-controlled compressor is reducing power cost, minimizing power surges and delivering a more constant pressure
needed for the job at hand.
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Inside of your air compressor, you will find an internal oil-water separator. The internal separator separates the water from the oil that
stays inside the compressor.
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Air compressors are used in many different applications and provide essential compressed air to many businesses and individuals with
different air needs. No matter what your CFM, PSI and HP requirements are, the electronic controller on your air compressor is the
motherboard for keeping your unit running as efficiently as possible. It is your eyes into your machine.
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Air compressors are helpful for an enormous range of applications such as air filling, packaging, tools, HVAC control, and more! One
possible drawback is the amount of electricity they use; air compressors can be a huge drain on energy if used inefficiently. If you are
running them too long, allowing leaks to exist, or using the wrong type of compressor, you are wasting energy and money. This article will
go over some of the biggest power-wasters and how to
stop/prevent them!
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My use multiple air dryers in my facility, and they are causing the energy cost to be high. What can I do to make my air treatment system
more energy-efficient?
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Adsorption dryers can only be energy efficient if they contain premium desiccant material. The desiccant used in Pneumatech adsorption
dryers is carefully selected from a wide range of European and North-American suppliers, based on following key selection criteria:
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In the following guide, we want to try to answer some of the questions you may have been asking yourself in regards to screw air
compressors.
If you do not find the answer you are looking for, please get in touch with us.
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Air treatment helps prevent finish damage, scrapped materials, and tool/equipment replacement due to air moisture damage, like rust, when
using compressed air.
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Compressed air is a key utility supporting the food packaging and food processing industries. It is used in machines that fill products such
as cakes, pies, and liquid products, as well as during the packaging and transportation of snacks, vegetables, beer, soda and other items..
Compressed air must be moisture and contaminant-free to ensure the protection of the food products processed in each facility.
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Minimizing the risk of accidents in the workplace is a top priority in industry, and it is especially important when working with
pneumatic power tools. Ensuring that all safety precautions have been taken to protect the health and wellbeing of operators is vital. With
this in mind, here are seven simple steps to reduce the risk of accidents and improve operator safetyRead More…
With many different options on the market, it can be challenging to know what features to look out for when selecting an impact wrench. This
guide provides a brief overview of the technology and outlines some simple steps to help you get started.
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If you have never bought a rotary screw air compressor before; do the following. Add up the air consumption of all the equipment at your
shop. That will be the amount of air your desired compressor should provide.
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Regardless of the type of compressor you have, vibration issues can be troubling for any business. The root of the vibration can stem from
multiple sources, some internally and others externally. Understanding the cause of the vibration and how to resolve them will be critical
in keeping your compressor in proper working order.
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How well do you know the impact of the air line installation on your productivity? Test yourself by taking our quiz and answer all of the
questions to get your score at the end.
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Air compressors are essential to your business, but they can also become a safety hazard when used improperly. Reading your owner’s manual
and following all proper safety precautions before use is vital in keeping your compressor in great, working condition.
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Maintenance is key to continuing the performance of your air compressor. Continue to read about maximising the performance and longevity of
your compressor.
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Screw compressors are a type of compressor that, thanks to their reliability and long lifetime, belong to the most used types of
compressors. Learn more about them here!
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Did you know that cold weather can be of influence on the condition of your compressed air installation and compressed air? Read our cold
weather tips.
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Corrosion in the pipeline is due to insufficient condensation drainage that occurs during compression. The resulting condensate, together
with the compressed air, flow further into the compressed air line network and has a negative effect on the pipes. Find out more about how
you can prevent corrosion here.
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FRLs – Filters, Regulators and Lubricators – guarantee the efficiency and durability of pneumatic tools. Including an FRL in your air
system is vital to running an efficient air line set-up and key to achieving a good return on investment. Read
more here!
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Check out this blog and video included to help you know what you should be looking for when you're thinking about purchasing a Chicago
Pneumatic Rotary Screw Compressor for your shop or application. If you want to learn about what a screw compressor actually is, check out
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There are 3 simple steps to make sure your air line installation is providing the right pressure and that your accessories selection is
correct, so you can ultimately work productively. It does not take long and it is something you can easily do yourself using our
self-diagnostic checklist.
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Okay, okay, we're a bit excited. With the recent launch of our air tools in our
online shop.
Here's a 101 for you about what air tools you might need in your air compressor tool kit. Air tools are prevalent in automotive industries,
woodworking, construction, metalwork and more. Did you know that there's pretty much an air-powered version nearly any power tool on the
market? We want to share with you our 'Must have Air Tools'.
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When you are thinking about an air compressor, you might be have the image of the super popular piston or reciprocating compressor in your
mind. The compressor that you see in home workshops, automotive garages pumping up tyres and assisting in spray painting cars.
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As a follow on to our Why
You Should Not Use PVC Piping for Your Compressed Air System blog,
we share with you what piping you shouldbe using to get the most out of your compressed air system. Here at Ash Air we have the
perfect solution if you're wanting to match your great compressor with a fast, easy and reliable piping solution that supports the
operational excellence of your whole compressed air system.
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An air compressor is a big purchase for any business. It is visibly important to properly maintain the air compressor and filter elements to
protect that investment. Air intake filters are installed in an air compressor to remove any dust or debris the compress may suck in. Dust
will cause wear to the compressor element, valves, filters, compressor oil and any moving parts.
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So you have a vacuum pump installed and you rely on it for your business operations and performance? Here are some reasons why you should
consider overhauling your vacuum pump! s with all machinery and compressed air equipment, regular maintenance can help ensure optimised
safer performance of your vacuum pump. Learn more about benefits of restoring, rebuilding and repairing your vacuum pump.
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Air compressors are used every day, by many industries around the world. They are often considered the heart of a business, in that most
companies will rely on their performance and efficiency to run their operations, to get work done effectively and safely. In your day to
day, you've probably seen air compressors in use - whether at a build site powering construction equipment or in a mechanics workshop
inflating tyres.
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A scroll air compressor, or spiral compressor, compresses air by drawing it it, trapping it, reducing the volume and discharging it at the
outlet port. The scroll compressor that you see today, such as SpiralAIR, have
been the result of modernised advancements in manufacturing technology, even thought the concept of a scroll compressor has been around for
over 100 years.The scroll compressor is oil-free orbiting, or positive displacement compressor. The compressor has a stator spiral fixed in a
housing, and a motor driven eccentric orbiting spiral.
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