Reducing the energy cost of laser fume extraction
Energy costs are a major factor in the equation for fume extraction systems, attention to key area of design and operations, can guarantee reduction in wasted energy.
“More than 40% of the energy consumed in most manufacturing plants is used to power fans, pumps and ventilators.” Garry Lanham. KBD.
Within many installations the capital costs of equipment are superseded by there inherent running costs within 2 years. However by ensuring certain technical elements are featured within the design as well as constant monitoring during operation energy/cost savings can achieved through the 3 factors below:
1) Volumetric Flow Rate
2) Total Pressure
3) Efficiency of the fan
With regards to fume extraction, flow rate is relatively inelastic in order to maintain containment, therefore adjustements to system pressures and fan efficiency are a better place to affect reductions. A Systems pressure is directly related to the state of filters and to some extent the cleanliness of the hoses, a blocked filter and partially clogged extract hose, increases pressure and such resistance on the fan. Where fans have a variable motor speed as pressure increases so does the fan speed, so that the flow rate is constant. Ideal for fume containment, but a point will be reached prior to the filter light flashing when the cost of the increased energy out weighs the cost of changing the filter sooner. Simply sucking more air through a system when resistance increases is detrimental to energy savings. A need for further research is certainly required, it would be interesting to hear comments on this matter.
