Click on Download Button to Download 22525 Energy Conservation and Audit Unit 2 Notes PDF
Energy Conservation in Electrical Machines
Introduction:
Energy conservation in electrical machines involves
optimizing their efficiency and reducing unnecessary energy wastage. Since
electrical machines (motors, generators, transformers, etc.) are foundational
components in the industrial sector and many other areas, even small efficiency
improvements can lead to significant energy savings.
Energy Conservation in Motors:
- Optimized
Motor Sizing:
Choose motors that match the required load. Over-sized motors consume more
energy than necessary for most of their operational life.
- Variable
Speed Drives (VSDs): Use VSDs for applications where the load varies. They adjust the
motor speed to match the load, thereby conserving energy.
- Motor
Maintenance:
Regularly maintaining motors can prevent efficiency drops. This includes
bearing lubrication, cleaning, and ensuring proper alignment.
- Efficient
Motor Design:
Use energy-efficient motors that are designed to have lower losses and
better performance.
- Proper
Motor Starting:
Use soft starters or variable frequency drives to start motors, reducing
the starting current and the associated energy surge.
Energy Conservation in Transformers:
- Optimal
Sizing: Use
transformers that match the load requirements to avoid energy losses in
under-loaded or over-loaded conditions.
- Reduced
No-Load Losses:
Use high-quality core materials that have low hysteresis and eddy current
losses.
- Regular
Maintenance:
Check for and repair oil leaks, ensure proper cooling, and maintain
insulation integrity.
- Use
of Amorphous Metal Transformers: These transformers have significantly lower no-load
losses compared to traditional silicon steel core transformers.
Energy Conservation in Generators:
- Optimal
Loading:
Operate generators close to their rated capacity. Running a generator at a
low load can be inefficient.
- Regular
Maintenance:
Regularly inspect and maintain generator components like air filters, oil
filters, and cooling systems to ensure they run efficiently.
- Waste
Heat Recovery:
Use the heat produced by generators for heating applications, thus making
use of otherwise wasted energy.
General Techniques:
- Power
Factor Correction: Use capacitors and inductors to correct the power factor, reducing
the reactive power component which does not do useful work.
- Use
of Advanced Materials: Materials with better conductivity reduce losses due to
resistance.
- Automated
Control Systems:
Implement control systems that can adjust the operation of electrical
machines based on the real-time requirement, avoiding unnecessary energy
consumption.
- Monitoring
& Measurement: Use monitoring equipment to track energy consumption and
efficiency. This data can be used to identify areas for improvement.
Conclusion:
Energy conservation in electrical machines is crucial for
both economic and environmental reasons. With the increasing demand for energy
globally, it is imperative to focus on efficient utilization to ensure
sustainable growth. Adopting advanced technologies, regular maintenance, and
ensuring optimal operation are key strategies in achieving this goal.