INITIATIVE | 103 Shaw's concern for the environment has prompted a search for less polluting and more energy efficient sources. One result is Shaw's waste heat recovery program.
Large industrial compressed air systems are commonly used throughout Shaw's manufacturing operations supplying air not only for manufacturing processes but to power pneumatic equipment such as conveyers, grinders, jack hammers, drills, aerators, sprayers, etc. Close to 90% of the electrical energy used by the compressors can be converted into heat. Recognizing this energy conserving opportunity Shaw installed heat recovery units, in fourteen facilities, to be used as space heat during the winter months. Dampers were also added to transfer the heat outside during the summer months.
In the recovery system, air is heated by passing across the system's after-cooler and lubricant cooler, where heat is extracted from both the compressed air and the lubricant used to lubricate and cool the compressor. The heat is then captured and transferred saving each participating facility approximately 1,065 MMbtu's annually. That's enough energy to fuel 11 houses for an entire year…that's the Shaw Green Edge.
