Blog - Air Compressors

Is Your Compressed Air System Supporting Sustainability & Energy-Saving Practices?

 

Date: February 1, 2021
Author: Erica Geske

As industries continue to prioritize sustainable manufacturing, adopting energy-saving practices has become more critical than ever.

When most people think about saving energy, the focus usually falls on the “big three” utilities—electricity, water, and natural gas. While these are certainly key factors, one of the most overlooked opportunities for efficiency is compressed air.

Often called the “fourth utility,” compressed air is essential to more than 70% of manufacturing processes worldwide. Yet, inefficient compressed air systems are costing industries billions. In fact, it’s estimated that poorly designed or poorly maintained compressed air systems in the U.S. waste up to $3.2 billion in energy costs each year.

Since electricity makes up more than 75% of the total lifecycle cost of an industrial air compressor, improving your system’s efficiency not only reduces costs but also supports greener, more sustainable production.

How to Reduce Energy Costs and Improve Sustainability with Your Atmos Compressor

1. Compress Only the Air You Need

Matching your compressed air output to actual demand is key. Using an Atmos Compressor with a reliable capacity control system or simply shutting it down during production breaks can cut down on unnecessary energy use.

2. Get a Full System Audit

An air system audit can uncover inefficiencies such as leaks, oversized machines, or improper setups. Audits measure performance factors like delivery pressure, reliability, and air quality, helping you optimize system efficiency.

3. Reduce Pressure Where Possible

Every extra 2 psi of pressure increases energy consumption by about 1%. By reducing system pressure and addressing leaks, piping restrictions, or poorly maintained filters, you can immediately cut energy waste.

4. Upgrade Your Drains

Switching from timer or manual drains to zero-loss drains prevents unnecessary air loss and helps your system operate more efficiently.

5. Maintain Filters Regularly

Filters should be inspected and replaced not only in the compressor room but also downstream and at the point of use. Proper filter maintenance ensures air quality while preventing costly pressure drops.

6. Reuse Heat with a Recovery System

Atmos Compressors generate heat during operation. Instead of letting it go to waste, a heat recovery system allows you to repurpose this energy for heating your facility, water, or makeup air—significantly lowering energy costs.

7. Stick to Routine Maintenance & Monitoring

Scheduled maintenance and monitoring keep your Atmos Compressor operating at peak efficiency, extending its life while lowering energy consumption.

Atmos Compressor: Your Partner in Sustainable Manufacturing

Atmos Compressor is committed to supporting sustainable and energy-efficient production. Our advanced compressed air solutions are engineered to maximize performance while minimizing energy waste. We provide a wide range of products and services to help you achieve your sustainability goals, including:

  • Capacity Control Options
  • Air Audits & AirSuite™ Solutions
  • ATMO-MAX Zero-Loss Drains
  • High-Performance Filters
  • Heat Recovery Systems

 

 

 

 

 

 

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