The Economics of Thermal Devices

The best way to increase savings and reduce emissions is to lower the power consumption and total energy use for any objective.

Lower the device power usage by just  1 kW – Save $876 per year @US 10c/KWhr (A typical US household uses 2-4 KW (power) devices at home).  Multiply this power by the hours-used for obtaining the energy-used and price-paid.

Industrial use of power is much higher  ~ 100-1000 KW are used for industrial devices specially when radiative, steam and materials processing requirements.

MHI SmartPower devices offer substantial power savings.  Click to this page for an overview.

How much do the devices cost and how to obtain the best price.

How much detail should I use to specify my device?

The best price is obtained when you purchase the closest standard equipment for your desired use.

So it is best just to specify the essentials.

For Steam: Choose the power, temperature and kg/hr water usage.  Examples on how to increase productivity? Drying, Antimicrobial and Fuel Production.

For Process Air Devices:  Chose power, and temperature.  If in-line use, specify the pressure. What are MHI SmartDevices?   Go Green with smart reactions enable by clean hot gases.

For Furnaces:  Choose the Temperature and power (based on the load).  Choose furnace makers that provide at least a one year warranty on the heating elements. How distortion free stainless steel enclosures improve life and efficiency?

For Heating Elements:  Please review economics on this page.  What is GAXP?

Items to Include

These items are now basic in a new device specification.  They are best practices and should be part of your project when specifying a device.

• Warranty – Ask for Warranty on the Heating-Element for a Steam Generator, Hot Plate, Airtorch or Furnace.
• Ask for Testimonials – Or look for them on the manufacturers web site.
• Does the manufacturer provide several levels of tutorials – Online forms.
• Online RFQ’s – Does the manufacturer provide this.
• Prices:  Although not always comprehensive there should be an online web store with price guidance.
• Does the manufacturer talk up energy efficiency and sustainability?  Its a good practice to ask the sales agent.
• Does the manufacturer believe in Simplicity of design?.

What makes a device cost more?

Here is a list of items that typically may lead to an increase in the capital cost of a device.

• Short Time-Frame – The faster you need it; the more people will need to work on your order to make the deadline.   More people equals more money.
• Customization– Customization could be great but highly costly.   Please be aware that the more items built from scratch, the more the cost.
• Spreading out payments:  Paperwork from your end could take time – sometimes even compared to the build out.  Manufacturers routinely depend on being paid on time.  The best prices are given when prepayment is made.
• Integration to 3rd Party Tools:  Choose a manufacturer that provides their own data acquisition system.  Third part tools can cost money and time to integrate.

Will I get my money back.  What is my ROI?

When choosing a product ask for typical Return On Investment Calculations if you will use it to generate revenue.

More:

• Check for Testimonials and Reviews.  A good manufacturer will always post these
• Is the repair policy sound,  affordable and useful.  Machines will break down – maintenance is typically 10% of the initial purchase.  Buyer should check if the manufacturer offers a comprehensive policy like the NeverDown(TM) policies.
• It does not hurt if the company that you are dealing-with is at least two decades in existence with continuous testimonials.
• Did the manufacturer or seller provide the quote in a timely manner. If not, it could be a symptom of  downstream delays.  There are exceptions but buyer beware.

Summary: There is obviously no one answer to how to choose your best thermal device.  The above are some guidelines that refer to good practices.  Now include some Green Practices and obtain more benefits-

Some Benefits Of Going Green and even Blue In Manufacturing?

Attracting  buyers and as away to do more business is a benefit of sustainability. How can MHI help?  MHI technologies offer the potential to:

Reduce Costs

Energy use reduction can substantially reduce long-term electrical costs. Reducing water usage and cutting down on material-waste disposal  can also add up to big savings over time.

Enhance Brand Image

Establishing your company as a voice for environmental responsibility can possibly lift the perception of your company and play a vital role in the success of your business overall.

Attract Committed Employees

One of the best ways to appeal to the next generation of workers is to demonstrate a commitment to the environment.