News Huge Savings in the First Year at Instron
Huge Savings in the First Year at Instron
Instron Limited of High Wycombe manufactures precision instruments and systems for testing materials and products used in a broad cross-section of industries. Working on behalf of manufacturers, governments and research bodies worldwide, Instron also carries out tests on products and materials for strength, durability, hardness and structural integrity. The company is commissioned to test materials by organisations as diverse as space shuttle researchers, a Formula 1 racing team, contact lens producers and zip manufacturers.
Instron’s existing oil-fired boiler system had effectively reached the end of its life. The company was seeking a cost-effective replacement that would answer the differing needs of its workforce with regard to ambient temperature for individual work groups whose activity levels varied greatly. A central computerised control and management system was also essential to minimise energy wastage.
The requirement for both ventilation and heating across four different zones indicated that a warm air system would be the most appropriate solution. Nine T2000E Reznor units with 316 grade stainless steel heat exchangers were installed to heat 7,500m² of the factory floor. On start-up and during cold weather, the heaters work on total recirculation of air. In summer, dampers can be automatically switched to recirculation and fresh air, or total fresh air.
The system is controlled from a PC terminal using a software programme specially designed by TA Controls. amper - proof localised sensing points detect ambient temperature in each zone. The heating system, or individual units, can be viewed graphically on screen, and controls amended by a simple point and click operation.
The management system also detects faults, isolates them and re-sets where the fault is not complex.
Instron saved 35 per cent on heating bills in the first year after installation. The Reznor system is proving responsive, efficient and easy to operate. For example, from cold, the factory reaches a comfortable temperature in 13/4 hours, two hours less than the previous system. In summer, ‘hot spots’ with little air flow can be effectively ventilated. The computerised management system offers complete control, helping contain costs.