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The Role Of Energy Efficient Transformers In The Petrochemical Industry

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Introduction

The U.S. petrochemical industry is the third largest in the world and a significant contributor to the countrys GDP. The US Petrochemicals Industry is also an indispensable part of the manufacturing and consumer sectors, churning out products such as fiberglass, tires, paint, plastic, rubber, detergents, dyes, fertilizers, textiles, solvents, and more.

In the recent past however, the US Petrochemicals Industry has undergone reasonably predictable lifecycle-path phases; from initial growth and augmentation to slowing down in marginal returns, and thereafter facing
possible downturns aided by many factors such as competition and resource constraints.

The future of the US petrochemical industry appears to be uncertain at present with the imbalance created in the market by the high feedstock process. According to Business Monitor Internationals (BMI) 2008 US Petrochemicals Report, the industry is also suffering the effects of a contraction in house building and car production, with output set to further diminish in 2009 and 2010.

Besides the ongoing effects of the recession, the US petrochemicals industry is faced with radical changes in the regulatory environment. The US is seeing a new policy climate with greater stress on tackling climate change through reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. This move has major
implications for the energy-intensive petrochemicals industry. A bill seeking to make a 17% greenhouse gas emission reduction through 2020 has raised objections from the chemicals industry lobby. The industry could find it difficult to maintain both competitiveness in global markets and meet its carbon
targets, unless it introduces some drastic changes in the way it demands and uses energy.

Energy and the Petrochemical Industry

Energy is a very important cost factor in the chemical industry in general. The petrochemical industry is even more energy-intensive than other sub-sectors within the chemical industry. The sector spent about $10 billion on fuels and electricity in 2004.

The petrochemical industry is responsible for 70% of the chemical industrys expenditures on fuels and 40% of the expenditures on electricity. The cost of energy and raw materials are roughly 2/3rds of the total value of shipments of the petrochemical industry. Because energy is such a crucial cost factor for the
industry, improvement in energy efficiency is an important way to reduce costs and increase predictable earnings, especially in current times of high energy price volatility.

US manufacturers in the petrochemical industry also face an increasingly competitive global business environment; it is thus imperative that they reduce production costs without negatively affecting product yield or quality. Improving energy efficiency reduces the bottom line of any petrochemical plant.

Successful, cost-effective investment into energy-efficient technologies and practices meets the challenge of maintaining the output of a high quality product despite reduced production costs. This is especially important, as energy-efficient technologies often include additional benefits, such as increasing the productivity of the company and reducing the emission of greenhouse gases.

There are a variety of opportunities available in the US petrochemical industry to reduce energy consumption in a cost-effective manner. Companies are thus coming together to begin the process of jointly exploring new and more energy-efficient processes that could dramatically reduce the dependence of the US petrochemical industry on foreign oil. The US petrochemicals industry is being hit by a rapid rise in energy costs and the The Role of Transformers

Transformers, besides other things like switchgear, converters, low-voltage equipment and power-plant solutions, are just some of the things that contribute to the efficient production and management of highquality
electricity.

Most standard transformers in industrial settings operate at full load and have 90 to 95% efficiency. However, one of the main reasons for energy loss in a transformer is due to inefficiencies in the transformer core. This issue is addressed in high-efficiency transformers that utilize the latest core
technologies to reduce core losses. The positive jump in efficiency is due mainly to the fact that the core is energized 24/7, even when the transformer load is turned off or disconnected.

Another issue of concern is that of transformer load. With the majority of the electricity used in the US being run through transformers at lower loads, sizable amounts of energy are being wasted. This issue is
of special relevance to an industry like that of Petrochemicals which already is a high consumer of energy.

The Need for Energy-Efficient Transformers

Compliant transformers are able to maintain National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Class 1 efficiency levels at 35% load. This is accomplished by using higher-grade grain-oriented steel in the core rather than the standard non grain-oriented type. Grain-oriented steel offers thinner gauge and purer
metallic material quality, reducing heat caused from eddy currents by limiting the direction in which current can flow. This narrowing of the magnetic field into a thinner profile also reduces the canceling effect of opposing currents.

Increasing the energy efficiency of a transformer allows the unit to operate at the same level of power with less energy being wasted. This has a large impact on the consumption and distribution of energy because the reduction in energy usage improves the countrys energy independence, reduces its carbon
footprint and lessens infrastructure investment.

Decreasing energy usage by reducing waste even by .03% over the next 20 years cuts the need for new power generation by 60 to 66 million kilowatts. That drop would eliminate the need for construction of 11 new 400-megawatt power plants by 2038.

Electrical power generation accounts for 35% of all US emissions of carbon dioxide, 75% of sulfur dioxide and 38% of nitrogen oxides. With higher-efficiency transformers, the country will see reduced emissions
of CO2, NOx and Hg of 678.8 Mt, 187.7kt and 6.48t over the next 30 years. Curbing energy imports will also bolster the US economy by reducing the current $65 billion trade deficit and mitigating fuel prices through decreased demand.

The compliant transformers will cost more than their lower-efficiency predecessors due to the higher price tag for grain-oriented steel, additional labor and higher raw material costs. While the compliant transformers will add to the cost of construction and maintenance projects, the end user will save this cost over the life of the transformer.

The Role of Transformers

Transformers, besides other things like switchgear, converters, low-voltage equipment and power-plant solutions, are just some of the things that contribute to the efficient production and management of highquality
electricity.

Most standard transformers in industrial settings operate at full load and have 90 to 95% efficiency. However, one of the main reasons for energy loss in a transformer is due to inefficiencies in the transformer core. This issue is addressed in high-efficiency transformers that utilize the latest core
technologies to reduce core losses. The positive jump in efficiency is due mainly to the fact that the core is energized 24/7, even when the transformer load is turned off or disconnected.

Another issue of concern is that of transformer load. With the majority of the electricity used in the US being run through transformers at lower loads, sizable amounts of energy are being wasted. This issue is of special relevance to an industry like that of Petrochemicals which already is a high consumer of
energy.

The Need for Energy-Efficient Transformers

Compliant transformers are able to maintain National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Class 1 efficiency levels at 35% load. This is accomplished by using higher-grade grain-oriented steel in the core rather than the standard non grain-oriented type. Grain-oriented steel offers thinner gauge and purer
metallic material quality, reducing heat caused from eddy currents by limiting the direction in which current can flow. This narrowing of the magnetic field into a thinner profile also reduces the canceling
effect of opposing currents.

Increasing the energy efficiency of a transformer allows the unit to operate at the same level of power with less energy being wasted. This has a large impact on the consumption and distribution of energy because the reduction in energy usage improves the countrys energy independence, reduces its carbon
footprint and lessens infrastructure investment.

Decreasing energy usage by reducing waste even by .03% over the next 20 years cuts the need for new power generation by 60 to 66 million kilowatts. That drop would eliminate the need for construction of 11 new 400-megawatt power plants by 2038.

Electrical power generation accounts for 35% of all US emissions of carbon dioxide, 75% of sulfur dioxide and 38% of nitrogen oxides. With higher-efficiency transformers, the country will see reduced emissions
of CO2, NOx and Hg of 678.8 Mt, 187.7kt and 6.48t over the next 30 years. Curbing energy imports will also bolster the US economy by reducing the current $65 billion trade deficit and mitigating fuel prices
through decreased demand.

The compliant transformers will cost more than their lower-efficiency predecessors due to the higher price tag for grain-oriented steel, additional labor and higher raw material costs. While the compliant transformers will add to the cost of construction and maintenance projects, the end user will save this cost over the life of the transformer.

Benefiting from Better-Designed Transformers

Increasing the energy efficiency of a transformer allows the unit to operate at the same level of power with less energy being wasted in the process.
Electric power systems throughout the petrochemical industry are designed to normally operate at 50 or 60 Hz. With proper planning during the design phase of the power system for a petrochemical plant, certain harmonics can be minimized. Another way to minimize harmonics in the petrochemical power
system is to minimize the saturation of transformers by maintaining the operation of the transformer in a reasonable voltage range.

The system short-circuit capacity is an important factor in determining the impact of power electronic loads in the petrochemical industry. Where the power system is weak with a relatively low short-circuit capacity, the voltage distortion caused by the harmonic currents can be significant. Conversely, where the power system is strong with a relatively high short-circuit capacity; the voltage distortion caused by the same harmonic current sources might be negligible. Thus, one solution to minimize the voltage distortion caused by power electronic equipment is to install the equipment on a strong power source.

Energy Policy Act 2005 Mandates High-Efficiency Transformers

The Energy Policy Act 2005 mandates that distribution transformers meet specific efficiency levels starting January 1, 2007. The production of non-compliant models was to be halted by 2006. The catch, however, is that the higher-efficiency transformers also cost more to build than the non-compliant models. By mid-2007, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) was evaluating the efficiency standards for transformers because it was clear that even a slight improvement could save significant amounts of electricity which was currently being wasted well before it reached consumers. Efficiency in transformers would also reduce emissions from electric generating plants, as they would need to produce less energy.

The DOE was planning to issue new guidelines for distribution transformers by 2008. Once in place following a gradual phase-in, the new transformers are expected to save 26 billion kilowatt-hours annually. This will in turn reduce annual emissions from electric power plants by 15 million metric tons,
about equal to the average annual emissions of 2.7 million automobiles.

Pacific Crest Transformers and the Petrochemical Industry

Pacific Crest Transformers (PCT) has been catering to clients in the Petrochemical industry since its inception in 1919, thus making it possibly the only such company with 90 years of continuous domain
experience.

While the thrust towards energy-efficient transformers may be a relatively new phenomenon in the US, environmentally conscious companies like Pacific Crest Transformers (PCT) began eco-friendly initiatives years earlier.

PCT is committed to designing and manufacturing superior quality, custom-built and specialty transformers in the most cost-effective and responsive manner possible. The company has experience in building Padmount, Station and Secondary Unit Sub Transformers, and today specializes in environmentally friendly and efficient liquid-filled distribution transformers. PCT was propelled towards its energy efficiency initiative in its attempt to produce efficient, energy saving and therefore environmentally sensitive transformers.

The main thrust at PCT has always been customizing transformers after elaborate consultative processes
with the client. The transformers eventually built are based on client specification and are designed to fit
into the existing infrastructure.
Over the years PCT has designed transformers for:
Hazardous, flammable, or explosive environments
On-shore and off-shore platforms in corrosive atmospheres
Special taps and voltages as required
Harmonic loads from PLC and VFDs
High-pollution areas
PCTs transformers are present in environments where there is drilling and refining of fossil fuels, including natural gas, from areas with varied climatic conditions ranging from the hot humidity of the gulf coast to the frigid north slopes of Alaska. PCT Transformers are used throughout the process of
acquisition, transportation, and conversion of the end-products.

Conclusion

Energy is definitely a key driver of the Petrochemicals Industry, and so it is only natural that in the face of an uncertain oil future, companies take another look at the way they consume energy. Energy that is saved is considered the cleanest way of generating additional energy and steps to save energy are long
overdue.

Companies in this sector need to study their processes from an energy-efficiency standpoint and look at the various ways of conservation. With increasingly competitive times ahead, these steps taken now can
result in significant cost reduction. It may also be necessary to retrofit or invest in energy-efficient transformers, and restructure the existing energy system and here, working with a manufacturer that has deep domain expertise and sound long-term environmental strategies can make a real difference.

To know more about Energy Efficient Transformers check out Pacific crest transformers website.

Half Year Report-construction Machinery Industry Overview

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www.cri-report.com – In January-June 2011, China’s construction machinery industry accumulatively achieved the total industrial output value of CNY 312.35 billion, ascending by 43.04% YOY, and realized the sales revenue of CNY 306.13 billion, increasing by 40.86% YOY.

In 2011 H1, the accumulative product output of China’s construction machinery industry continued growing. Except for special cement equipment whose output experienced substantial year-on-year decline, other products all maintained growth, especially for internal combustion folk lift products.

After China’s construction machinery market experienced the rapid growth in 2011 Q1, various sub-industries have seen an obvious decline in sales volume since April compared with March. In January-May 2011, the accumulative sales volume of excavators in China grew by 36% YOY; that of bulldozers grew by 21% YOY; that of loaders grew by 21% YOY. It has been an indisputable fact that the construction machinery industry has slowed down.

Although China’s construction machinery industry still has favorable prospects in 2011, the decline in growth rate is an inevitable trend. The main reason for the decline in prosperity of some products in the industry lies in credit crunch, whose influence on the industry is mainly reflected in 2 aspects: first, the downstream demand of the industry will be influenced. Construction of some projects under construction has decelerated due to credit crunch, and operation of projects which were originally planned to be operated has been delayed; second, the marketing efforts of enterprises will be influenced. In 2011 Q1, various construction machinery enterprises successively made more marketing efforts and increased the proportions of financial leasing and installment payment so as to seize market shares. Since April, some enterprises have enhanced risk control and decreased the proportion of credit sales.

In 2011, the global economy recovered gradually and the demand for construction machinery increased. The external demand will still grow, directly driving the construction machinery export market especially for the construction engineering machinery manufacturing industry. Although the base of global economic recovery is unstable, the situation of favorable global economy will be unchanged in 2011. The export environment of China’s construction machinery will continue improving and the export value is predicted to be resumed to the record high of 2008.

To get more details, please go to http://www.cri-report.com/278-chinese-construction-industry-report-2011h1.html

More following information can be acquired from this report:
-Operations of China’s Construction Machinery Industry, 2011 H1
-Operations of Sub-industries of China’s Construction Machinery Industry, 2011 H1
-Import and Export of China’s Construction Machinery, 2011 H1
-Prediction on Development of China’s Construction Machinery Industry, 2011 H2

Vietnam Fertilizer Industry Research Report

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Overuse of nitrogen fertilizers which has led to deficiency of other macro nutrients in the soils of Vietnam has encouraged the government to support use of potash fertilizers in the country.

The consumption of fertilizers in Vietnam has been growing at a CAGR of 3.4% during 2006-2012 as the government struggles to fulfill the goal of food security for the growing population of the country. The fertilizer sector has been one of the most resilient sectors even during the economic downturn making it one of the most profitable sector for the fertilizer companies. The fertilizer industry of the country is concentrated with majority of the supply being done by two giants namely Petrovietnam Group and Vietnam National Chemical Group with most of the companies being affiliated to these two groups. Majority of the fertilizer firms in the country have focused on production of nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers. Nitrogen fertilizers contributed more than half of the overall consumption of fertilizers in the country in 2012.

However with the government now focusing on the concept of balanced fertilization, the consumption of potash fertilizers is expected to grow in the coming years 2013-2017. The consumption of potash fertilizers in expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% during 2012-2017 which would be the fastest growing as compared to the other macronutrients such as nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers thereby driving the growth of fertilizer industry in the country. The two major potash fertilizers used in the country are potassium chloride and NPK fertilizer both of which are exhibited to witness a favorable growth of 5.5% and 5.1% during 2012-1017.

-Majority of the potash fertilizers are imported in the country with the imports in the country growing at a CAGR of 8.2% during 2006-2012. The largest amount of potash imports was from Belarus in 2012 which reached 233,444.0 tons- – According to the research report -Vietnam Fertilizer Industry Outlook to 2017 – Government Initiatives to Enhance NPK Complex Fertilizer Growth’ by Ken Research.

Government funded initiatives such as Balanced Fertilization for better crops in Vietnam (BALCORP) would drive the growth of potash fertilizers in the country. The consumption of potash fertilizers would reach ~ thousand tons nutrients growing at a CAGR of 5.3% during 2012-2017.

The report provides detailed overview on the fertilizer market in Vietnam and help reader to identify the ongoing trends in the key segments of the industry and anticipated growth in future depending upon changing industry dynamics in coming years. The report will aid industry consultants, fertilizer companies and marketing companies and other stakeholders to align their market centric strategies accordi

The Importance Of Plastics Industry In Our Lifes

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Little things are often what are missed the most. How would you clean your teeth for instance? Toothbrushes are made out of plastics. You would not even wake up in time in the morning. Have a look at your alarm-clock. How many parts made out of plastics does it have? Without plastics there would not be any means of transport. A huge number of parts for airplanes, cars, ships and trains are made out of plastics. But where do plastics come from?

The first synthetic plastic was made from the plant material cellulose. In 1869, John Wesley Hyatt, an American printer and inventor, found that cellulose nitrate could be used as an inexpensive substitute for ivory. The mixture could be plasticized with the addition of camphor. Celluloid, as this new material was called, became the only plastic of commercial importance for 30 years. It was used for eyeglass frames, combs, billiard balls, shirt collars, buttons, dentures, and photographic film. In 1951, two young research chemists for Phillips Petroleum Company in Bartlesville, made discoveries that revolutionized the plastics world. Today, the plastics they discoveredpolypropylene and polyethyleneare used to produce the vast majority of the thousands of plastics products all over the world. The raw material for plastics is petroleum.

The word plastic comes from the Greek word plastikos, meaning “able to be molded.” Plastics can be processed in many ways. The main process used to form plastics is called extrusion molding. A heated plastic compound is forced continuously through a forming die made in the desired shape (like squeezing toothpaste from a tube, it produces a long, usually narrow, continuous product). The formed plastic cools under blown air or in a water bath and hardens on a moving belt. Rods, tubes, pipes, and sheet and thin film (such as food wraps) are extruded then coiled or cut to desired lengths.

So far so good. Now close your eyes and immagine your every day life without plastics. What would you miss most? Your television, your cellular phone, your eyeglasses or would it be safety? Most kind of safety protections are made out of plastics.

Vending Cart Industry In India

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The vending cart industry in India has a historic presence, even the format of the cart has not evolved a lot. Still the cart is made of wood with an iron frame to support the wheel and the wood. The cost of the cart being roughly around USD 10 and it makes the capital investment very low. Any one who feels to try his/her entrepreneur skill can invest in with the low capital amount and the stock. No licenses are required to operate such carts in India as they are not legal. When Government starts any action against them they disappear from the market and as soon as the caravan of the government vehicle passes by they reappear as nothing has happened ever. All it requires you to operate such cart is small amount of money (since very low capital), willingness to work and last but not least entrepreneur skill to operate your business.

The vending business in India can be seen across all the industry. One can find food, vegetables, fruits, clothes, shoes, toys, groceries and everything and anything on the cart put up for sale. Recently I have seen a cart selling very costly decorative item on the cart. The carts usually rule the street and at times you can find a specialized market for them which is set up by the local authorities (to improve the conditions of street vendors) generally known as Hatwada in Northern India. But the major industry that rules the vending industry in India is the food industry. You can find every kind of food being served on the plates of these local street food vendors, mostly unhygienic but at times hygienic too.

The scenario of vending business in India is now changing. With the efforts of the government (Ministry of Food Processing in India) and local authorities the vending business in India will see a tremendous change in coming years. With the PPP model a lot can happen which not only can improve the condition of the vending business in India as well as also be able to improve the quality being served on these street carts. Some companies Like KDCPL have already popped in for a better street vending in India.