When letting off steam is a problem

• Jam factory discovers how to fix its steam production, save fuel and boost its performance
• Actions taken to optimise and upgrade its steam system save around € 35 000 per year

Favols is a jam manufacturer in southwest France which is keen to improve its energy performance and boost production. 

An expert study by Ademe revealed issues with Favols' steam production pressure; the boiler produces steam at eight bars when only four bars are needed, and poorly maintained steam traps are a major source of leaks during distribution.

The first simple action was to optimise the boiler and gradually reduce pressure output, from 184° C to 175°C, which saves fuel oil as well as heat losses in the boiler and distribution pipes. A further step was to insulate a large part of the network. Favols also replaced the steam traps and carried out checks to repair leaks in the distribution system.

Key benefits

Planned work includes installing modulating valves to regulate steam consumption according to production needs, and a condensate piping system (diameter and heat insulator) to help recover energy and raise the temperature of water entering the boiler.

Actions to date have generated savings of around € 35 000 per year, with more expected once planned retrofitting is complete.