Sparks Dynamics > Case Studies > Sparks Dynamics Assists Atlas Container Secure a $15,000 BGE Energy Rebate

Sparks Dynamics Assists Atlas Container Secure a $15,000 BGE Energy Rebate

Technology Category

Analytics & Modeling - Big Data Analytics
Functional Applications - Remote Monitoring & Control Systems

Applicable Industries

Packaging

Applicable Functions

Discrete Manufacturing

Use Cases

Building Energy Management

The Customer

Atlas Container

About The Customer

For 45 years, Atlas Container has been manufacturing corrugated packaging and display products. Product packaging must adapt to new sustainability goals that are geared toward protecting and preserving our environment. Atlas Container is proudly committed

The Challenge

The ReMASTER Compressed Air Monitoring system was installed in 2015. This system is capable of monitoring compressed air system parameters on a continuous basis and transferring that information to a cloud server which can be accessed by Atlas Container personnel, Industrial Diagnostics and Sparks Dynamics. This information was collected into a database which can be exported to an Excel spreadsheet or displayed graphically using Sparks Dynamics ViewMaster Software. The average annual compressed air electricity expense was estimated to be approximately $116,000. This is based on an incremental $/KWh electric rate of $.091 per KWh and an estimated compressed air energy consumption of 1,279,200 KWH. The implementation phase of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) for the Compressed Air System included: • Identification and repair of compressed air leaks • Understanding of compressed air usage per manufacturing machine and installation of shut off valves when the machines are no longer in production mode • Identification of misapplications of compressed air to include blow offs, venturis, and cooling scenarios • Understand system pressure requirements and potential installation of point of use pressure regulation.

The Solution

Pre and Post ECM system monitoring has verified that the implementation of the ECMs is saving over $20,000 per year. There has been a reduction in compressed air consumption of 20% and when there is no production on the weekend the compressor is now shut off. The VSD control of the compressor allows for efficient turndown to match the load. A dew point monitor was installed to insure that the dryer and cleanup equipment are working and providing clean dry air to the plant. A Modbus interface module was installed that now allows the compressor panel information to be streamed to the cloud as well. Analytics have been developed that continuously run on the data streams and to ensure the system maintains an efficient performance envelope.

Data Collected

Air Quality (PMI), Energy Consumption Rate, Installation Diagnostics, Leakage, Pressure

Operational Impact

[Data Management - Data Analysis]
Analytics have been developed that continuously run on the data streams and to ensure the system maintains an efficient performance envelope.

Quantitative Benefit

20% Reduction in Compressed Air Consumption
Energy cost savings of over $20,000 achieved per year and received $15,000 BGE Energy Rebate
Less than a 1 year simple payback