Department of Energy talks about gasket leaks
I found a very interesting page at the department of energy today. I found from the Energy department talking about energy saving for process heating in the Aluminum industry (link to report).
some of the more interesting things they state:
On page 3 regarding saving money for heat generation:
“Minimize air leakage into the melter or oven. Furnace sealing can prevent air from leaking into the furnace, which in turn keeps the air-fuel ratio consistent. Preventing cold air from entering the furnace can avoid excess fuel use and help maintain temperature uniformity. Keep seals tight.”
On page 5 regarding heat containment:
“Maintain proper furnace pressure. Prevent air leakage. Furnace draft or the negative pressure created by the “chimney” effect in a furnace promotes air leakage through the furnace openings. Door seals, gaskets, and other “hidden” openings should be checked for possible air leakage. Replace or repair any damage. Investigate new seal types and materials that may improve Performance. Maintaining a balanced (zero) or slightly positive pressure inside the furnace can also minimize air leakage. In addition to saving energy, minimizing air leaks can help maintain more uniform temperature in the furnace and load”
“Air leakage through furnace openings, particularly moving parts such as furnace doors, can result in large heat losses. For a melting furnace without pressure control, even a ¼-inch gap around one door can cost as much as $225,000 per year.”
some of the more interesting things they state:
On page 3 regarding saving money for heat generation:
“Minimize air leakage into the melter or oven. Furnace sealing can prevent air from leaking into the furnace, which in turn keeps the air-fuel ratio consistent. Preventing cold air from entering the furnace can avoid excess fuel use and help maintain temperature uniformity. Keep seals tight.”
On page 5 regarding heat containment:
“Maintain proper furnace pressure. Prevent air leakage. Furnace draft or the negative pressure created by the “chimney” effect in a furnace promotes air leakage through the furnace openings. Door seals, gaskets, and other “hidden” openings should be checked for possible air leakage. Replace or repair any damage. Investigate new seal types and materials that may improve Performance. Maintaining a balanced (zero) or slightly positive pressure inside the furnace can also minimize air leakage. In addition to saving energy, minimizing air leaks can help maintain more uniform temperature in the furnace and load”
“Air leakage through furnace openings, particularly moving parts such as furnace doors, can result in large heat losses. For a melting furnace without pressure control, even a ¼-inch gap around one door can cost as much as $225,000 per year.”