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The MICROTherm unit was introduced to Mr, Scon BIy, C.E.M., Energy
Manager. A demonstration period was authorized and three MICROTherm units
were installed. The results showed a 23% to 26% less fuel consumption
based on meter readings. The MICROTherm unit eliminates unnecessary
cycling of the boilers.
The following report is the conclusion of 2 years of data based on
propane fuel consumption reports provided by The Gas Company and
Department of Public Works, US Army Garrison.
There are a total of 104 units installed that includes locations at
Scnofield Barracks, Tripler Army Hospital and Fort Shafter. There are
MICROTherm installed locations with SNG (Synthetic Natural Gas) and Diesel
fuel fired boilers that are not included in this propane fuel consumption
report.
The fuel consumption for (he period of July 1997 through December 1997
was 283,595 gallons delivered with an average of 47.265 gallons per month.
This time period is prior to the MICROTherm installation with 71 boilers
operating at this time. The fuel consumption for the period of July 1998
through December 1998 was 250,232 gallons delivered with an average of
41,705 gallons per month. This time period includes the installation of
the MICROTherm units. The average of 41,705 gallons includes an increase
in fuel load with 81 boilers operating at this time.
The number of boilers have increased due to the replacement of several
diesel boilers with new propane fueled boilers after remodeling of
buildings were completed, These 10 new boilers have added 34,363 gallons
of load in the months of July 1998 through December 1998 that did not
exist in 1997. MICROTherm units have been installed on these 10 new
boilers. The fuel consumption on these 10 boilers would have been at least
20% higher if the MICROTherms were not installed.
(The following loads increased at these locations: Triplor Hospital
#102, Building #25, Area X Building 1221 tank #5, Menoher Road #1096,
Kalohu Ave, Foote gate B quad, Wheeler Building #102 and 2074 Humphreys
Avenue all have increased the loads on rhe buildings from remodeling or
replacement of equipment.)
With the extra load of 34,363 gallons subtracted from 250,232 gallons
(the months of July 1998 through December 1998), the adjusted consumption
for the original 71 boilers during this same period is actually 216.232
gallons. The monthly average is 35,978 gallons. Comparing both time
periods, less the load increase, reflected a reduction in fuel consumption
of 11,287 gallons per month.
The price per gallon of fuel was determined by dividing the gross
dollars spent by the gross gallons consumed. The average cost of $1.31 per
gallon multiplied by 11,287 gallons = a savings of $14,78 5.97 per mouth.
A yearly savings of $177.431.64
Fuel consumption data for MICROTherm units installed on Diesel and SNG
(Synthetic Natural Gas) would be helpful to determine the actual return on
investment. The savings results would increase and return on investment
would be lens than 1.47 ycars.
Environmental benefits. Gas bums cleaner with less polluting emissions
as compared to burning diesel or heavy fossil fuels to provide for hot
water needs MICROTherm adds an extra benefit by reducing the fuel waste
into the atmosphere. Emissions are reduced, fuel cost is reduced,
maintenance is reduced and a reduced cycling extends the life of the
equipment.
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