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Checking that heat-recovery devices are working properly will help to enable them to work efficiently and save you money. A good maintenance programme should address the following issues:
The steam and high temperature hot water boilers technology overview (PDF) and low temperature hot water boilers technology overview (PDF) give an introduction to the main energy saving opportunities for businesses.
A good maintenance manual will make the task of keeping your equipment in top working condition much easier.
The manual for any equipment should include a full description of all maintenance tasks, how often they need to be performed and who is responsible for them. It should also include schematic diagrams of all equipment and controls, operating instructions (including emergency shutdown procedures) and the contact details of the installation and maintenance technicians, as well as equipment manufacturers.
Use a log book to keep detailed records of what maintenance work was done, when and by whom.
Reviewing the maintenance activity will help you identify any recurring problems, which might require you to upgrade your equipment
Keep these in good condition, cleaning them when necessary.
Make sure all insulation is properly maintained and any leaks are identified and repaired.
You can make sure that combustion is efficient by monitoring carbon monoxide (CO) and oxygen levels in exhaust gases. Some equipment can do this itself, or a contractor can install flue gas monitoring equipment. Note – flue gas monitoring equipment is only required if the site is covered under the Environment Agency’s IPPC regulations.
Note: Get a service engineer to help write the manual to make sure it is realistic and technically accurate.
Operate the process plant to minimise wear and tear on the system. You can do this through these 2 measures, for example:
Where possible, keep a steady throughput of the load
A good understanding of the process operation will help you to avoid pressure imbalances and maintain control of burners.