Energy Efficiency of Industrial Drying Machine and Effects to Natural Gas Consumption and Carbon Footprint

Abstract

In this study, the drying process of the industrial drying machine for textiles was examined in terms of natural gas consumption, savings and reduction of carbon footprint. The study has been based on experimental part, CFD analysis as well the economic and thermodynamic calculation. Cases without heat recovery and with heat recovery were compared. The calculation was undertaken assuming energy savings and carbon footprint reduction after installation of a heat exchanger. It shows the fuel consumption and carbon footprint of a stenter that can be decreased significantly using heat recovery exchangers. Using close to 20% of recovered energy in total consumption leads to significant reduction of carbon footprint. To illustrate the results, these are compared with the CO2 absorption capacity of a mixed forest and set in relation to a specific number of trees.