Regular Leak Detection and Compressed Air Quality Audit Reduce Energy Costs

March 28, 2024

Improper installations, inefficient couplings, faulty hoses, and leaking valves, all contribute to unnecessary increases in energy costs for compressed air production. These issues force compressors to work harder, generating more air than needed in an optimally configured network, ultimately inflating energy bills. The savings potential is considerable, even for smaller businesses, by addressing these issues.

Compressed air, often referred to as the “fourth utility” for its widespread use across various industries, plays a pivotal role in diverse operations. However, many businesses underestimate the importance of maintaining their compressed air systems efficiently, failing to capitalize on substantial opportunities for improvement.

In the relentless pursuit of efficiency and cost reductions, businesses often overlook the invaluable opportunity within reach – air quality management. Herein lies the power of air audits, an often-underestimated tool that holds the key to unlocking substantial returns on investment (ROI) while reinforcing environmental stewardship and sustainability endeavors.

Air audits offer businesses a holistic evaluation of their compressed air distribution system, identifying areas for improvement and optimization. By rectifying inefficiencies such as leaky pipes, faulty regulators, and outdated equipment, businesses can significantly reduce energy consumption and operational costs, thereby reducing their environmental footprint while enhancing performance.

Common Causes of Air Leaks in an Industrial Setting

Preventing air leaks and consequent financial losses requires vigilant and proactive measures. Stay on the lookout for the following issues:

Faulty pressure regulators
Microscopic fissures in pipes
Poorly fitted connections
Valves that do not close all the way
Old pipes
Friction and turbulence in valves and fittings
Bad or improperly applied thread sealant

How to Prevent Air Leaks

Alongside addressing common sources of leaks, regular inspections on cables and connections are imperative. Three options are recommended for detecting leaks.

Auditory aid in immediate detection. Regular inspections should involve walking through your system, as larger holes emit a noticeable hissing sound and will be immediately noticeable.
Avoiding or replacing designs that increase flow resistance, such as narrow pipe sections or excessive branching mitigates strain on the compressor and prevents energy wastage.
Scheduling air audits by Atlas Copco’s Energy Consultants proves instrumental in detecting and remedying inefficiencies effectively, with ultrasonic leak detection employed for inaudible leaks.

AIRScan

Atlas Copco offers AIRScan audits, a service that encompasses four integral components: energy audit, vibration analysis, air quality assessment, and leak detection. By booking this comprehensive service, businesses stand to gain substantial financial benefits while fostering a cleaner, healthier future for all.

Benefits

Although the exact energy savings vary, older compressed air systems can lose up to 20% of energy consumption due to air leaks. Therefore, investing in compressed air audits is not only prudent but also financially advantageous, with the potential to eradicate leaks and commence substantial cost savings.

Schedule a compressed air audit today to end leaks and start saving money.

does your compressor system need an assessment or audit?

Do You Need an Assessment or Audit of your Compressor System?

6 April, 2022

When it comes to figuring out whether an energy audit or a simple compressed air assessment is needed varies based on the expected final outcomes and directives from upper management.