Steam System Assessment Tool Application in the Chemical Industry

Paul Nigro and Michael J. Chimack, University of Illinois at Chicago, Energy Resources Center
Christopher Heckert, Sargent & Lundy, L.L.C.
Aaron Hart, University of Illinois at Chicago, Energy Resources Center
Matthew D. Swanson, Elara Engineering

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Abstract

This paper discusses the application of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Steam System Analysis Tool (SSAT) at an industrial chemical plant focusing on the boiler and steam distribution systems. A total of seven recommendations were identified and analyzed using the software to determine the associated natural gas, electrical energy and water savings.
The total energy savings calculated using SSAT would reduce the energy budget of the plant by 7%. The natural gas usage of the plant would be reduced by 11%, while the electrical energy and city water usage would be reduced by 2% and 5%, respectively. These energy and resource conservation measures can be replicated by other chemical manufacturers in order to reduce their overall energy consumption.