Steam is needed in manufacturing processes as in the paper industry and in addition, in meat processing. The requirements range from a few kilowatts to megawatt strong plants. Heat converts water into steam in steam generators fueled by electricity, gas, fuel oil or biomass.

The efficiency of electrically operated steam generators is better than with combustion plants; however, this is in no relation to the far higher operating costs. Therefore electricity is suitable only for small plants. To increase the efficiency of steam generation in older plants, replacement of the steam boiler is recommended. If chimneys and gas connections are available, then a change from an electrically driven steam boiler to one with gas, oil or biomass is comparable to the example below.

Savings example

In case of investment costs of approx. 35,000 euro and annual savings of 12,000 euro, an amortization period of less than three years results. This computation example demonstrates that a change from electricity to gas pays off if the preconditions are fulfilled.

Financing example

If the purchase of a new steam boiler exceeds the annual investment budget, then plant leasing should be considered. With a financing plan, the installation costs in the first year result to about 10,000 euro plus the leasing installments of approx. 6000 euro for the new plant. The annual leasing fee of 6000 euro is already covered by the total savings of 12,000 euro.

Condensate recirculation ratio

For energy optimization measures, the condensate recirculationratio is the determining factor. The condensate return ratio describes the portion of water that returns to the steam boiler from the system.

Source: Austrian Chamber of Commerce