Client Background
The Parmalat plant in Kyalami produces and packages a number of different yoghurt products. The client approached Martec to conduct a leak detection survey which involved the process of finding, tagging and quantifying leak loss on all compressed air lines in the factory.
Internationally as much as 40% of compressed air produced is lost therefore increasing the need to find and fix leaks.
The client is aware of the high cost to produce compressed air and steam and therefore any losses would equate to operational expenses which could be avoided.
Key Challenges
Locating the exact point of the leak and ensuring personnel can find and repair the leak.
Martec Intervention
- Qualified personnel found and tagged 93 compressed air leaks with an estimated savings value of R 617,048.00 per annum. These leaks must be sealed correctly in order to achieve this saving.
- Four leaks of open blowing from valves were closed during the survey at an estimated cost of R 44,624.00 per annum.
- Six steam leaks were also identified.
Value add
- Our recommendation is for the client conduct the leak survey bi-annually to pick up any new leaks.
- Verification on the repairs conducted to ensure leaks are fixed.
- Confirming actual savings can be achieved with the use of measurement and verification equipment.
- This data can be sent to smart devices and alarm levels set to detect an increase in compressed air usage.
Tools and technology
- The ASNT Certified Level 2 Inspector employed the following equipment:
- SDT270 Ultrasonic Detector
- Flexible Sensor (Airborne Ultrasound)
- Parabolic Dish
- SDT Field Leak Estimator Software