Importance of Machine Modernization in Energy Efficiency Management of Manufacturing Companies

Abstract

Saving energy and looking for alternative energy sources are both elements of energy efficiency management, which is still a significant challenge for many companies around the world. Unfortunately, energy efficiency in companies is often equated only with thermo-modernization or the replacement of lighting. However, one of the most important methods of improving energy use in manufacturing companies may be the modernization of the machine park. Therefore, the main purpose of the paper was to investigate the activities of enterprises in the field of the modernization of machines and the impact of this on the actual improvement of energy efficiency. The modernization of machines in production plants is understood as adapting new parts to the old device or rebuilding the machine in such a way that it can cooperate with its new subassemblies. Companies usually decide to modernize the machinery fleet, bearing in mind the benefits of production efficiency, and they do not always combine this modernization with energy efficiency improvement measures. This is confirmed by the presented results of a survey conducted with a group of 111 manufacturing companies. Several important statistical relationships in the studied area were indicated by conducting an analysis based on the chi-square test and, in some cases, by clarifying the results of the z-test with the Bonferroni correction.

Relationships between Selected Quality Tools and Energy Efficiency in Production Processes

“…Therefore, we agree with the authors that there is a lack of comprehensive analysis of quality methods and tools to improve energy awareness and assess their impact on EE [49,65,69]. Quality methods, such as SMED, TPM, Six Sigma, SPC, FMEA, 5S, and Poka-Yoke, which are used to improve the PPs do not take into account their impact on the EE of companies [4][5][6]38,68,[70][71][72][73][74][75][76][77][78][79]. This study takes into account this aspect.…”

“…ity methods, such as SMED, TPM, Six Sigma, SPC, FMEA, 5S, and Poka-Yoke, which are used to improve the PPs do not take into account their impact on the EE of companies [4][5][6]38,68,[70][71][72][73][74][75][76][77][78][79]. This study takes into account this aspect.…”

“…These types of activities fall within the scope of the energy management system. As noted by numerous authors, the broadly understood modern industrial production also covering logistics and environmental issues cannot exist without an energy management system (EMS) [5][6][7][8].…”

Possibilities of Reducing the Heat Energy Consumption in a Tissue Paper Machine—Case Study

“…Given the rising costs of electricity and gas, paper mills will be forced to introduce new, energy-efficient solutions in paper production in order to be competitive in the market. Recently, many articles have been written describing ways to improve the energy efficiency of pulp and paper mills [1,2,7,8]. The system is supplied with energy from gas and low-pressure steam.…”