To help processors understand and enhance the efficiency of their process heating systems, the DOE's Industrial Technologies Program (ITP) has updated two resources in its BestPractices library of helpful technical resources: the process heating sourcebook and process heating assessment and survey tool (PHAST) software.

The second edition of Improving Process Heating Systems Performance: A Sourcebook for Industrywas produced in collaboration with the Industrial Heating Equipment Association (IHEA). The revised sourcebook provides information about basic process heating applications and equipment; options for energy and performance efficiency; and an overview of process heating economics. A new feature of this edition is a chapter emphasizing opportunities for improvement in electric-based systems performance.

Electric-based systems use electricity to make or transform a produce through heat-related processes. This new chapter includes efficiency improvement tips for:
  • Electric infrared processing.
  • Microwave processing.
  • Radio-frequency processing.
  • Resistance heating and melting.
  • Induction heating and melting.
  • Plasma processing.
  • Laser heating.
  • Arc furnaces.
  • Electron beam processing.
  • Ultraviolet curing.
  ITP also releases of Version 2.0 of the PHAST. This software tool helps industrial users investigate process heating equipment that uses fuel, steam or electricity, and identify the most energy-intensive equipment in their facility. Version 2.0 is enhanced to also assess ovens, heaters, boilers, furnace equipment and melters. The new version supports both English and metric units of measurement, and allows local currency options for energy cost and savings calculations.

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