UE Systems recently announced a new patented method of calculating and reporting greenhouse gas emissions in plant leaks. The emissions readings are now installed as part of the company’s Ultratrend data-management software.
“This patent adds a great deal of new value, customization and capability to the already industry-leading Ultratrend DMS,” says Doug Waetjen, Global Operations for UE Systems.
Along with providing compressed air leak information, the Ultratrend DMS can now create reports that also break down gases such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide and sulphur dioxide. The greenhouse gas data measurements are based on state electricity profiles by the Energy Information Administration; Office of Coal, Nuclear, Electric and Alternative Fuels; and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Traditionally, when taking a comprehensive leak detection survey, all data collected from using one of UE Systems’ digital instruments is downloaded to the Ultratrend DMS, which filters the data and allows the user to set up a report on an Excel spreadsheet. The survey allows the user to store information in each tested group location, converting the decibel levels of each leak into CFM measurement, which is used to calculate both the cost of a leak and the amount of greenhouse gases generated by producing the electricity used to compress the air that is wasted. In addition to greenhouse gases, the software is also used for other gases such as compressed air, argon, helium, hydrogen and nitrogen.
The motivating factor behind creating and implementing a compressed gas report is to assist reporting of compressed air leaks, which is one of the most costly utilities found at plants.
The Ultratrend DMS report offers a detailed monthly survey of data, a global annualized summary of leak volume and potential cost savings once fixed. Monthly data provides details for each leak, including location, size, the identified cost, the identified energy avoidance and the identified amount of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide and sulphur dioxide. Users receive a report offering the identification of specific leaks repaired, the actualized cost saved and the actualized greenhouse gas savings for each.
“By being able to view unrepaired leaks in a report, users can manage the repair process to assure that the savings from a survey are realized,” says Waetjen.
Through prompts on the spreadsheet, users can adjust the cost factors for their geographic area and make shifts depending upon whether the plant is operational 24 hours a day or less. With the patented technology, users also can now change their greenhouse gas usage numbers based on their region.
“We’re excited about this new technology, both from a cost-savings and planet-saving perspective,” says Waetjen.
For more information, visit www.uesystems.com.
