Energy saving and efficiency

University of Antwerp, Faculty of Applied Engineering – Antwerp, Belgium

Published online: 16 December 2020

Abstract

Many products and package systems offered by manufacturers have been optimized under pressure from Europe’s eco-design regulations (e.g., Energy Related Products). This also gives the customer access to reliable product information at the time of purchase, which continuously encourages manufacturers to improve the energy efficiency of their products in order to remain competitive. Typical of this merchandise is mass production. The focus in this article is on the design of energy efficient thermal systems, where each installation is custom made and consists of an assembly of components. Two groups with a large share in energy consumption need a different approach: industrial processes and building facilities. Pinch Point Analysis provides a systematic method to save energy in industrial plants through optimal implementation of heat recovery, cogeneration and heat pump applications. On the other hand, the Hysopt simulation software offers a powerful and accessible tool for optimizing the heat generation and distribution network that allows energy savings in buildings. After an introduction, both Pinch Point Analysis and Hysopt are explained, with designers in particular being the target group.