Analysing Demand and Supply Projects on a Mine Compressed Air System

Abstract

The cost of electricity in South Africa has been increasing at rates that are significantly higher than inflation. Eskom most recently proposed increases of up to 15%. Various methods have already been introduced to reduce energy consumption at different types of mining operations. Efficient energy use has been and will continuously be a big focus going into the 4th industrial revolution (4IR). As found from literature, compressed air systems are one of the largest energy consumers at typical South African mines. This paper focuses on improvements on mine compressed air systems and limiting factors of reducing said energy consumption on an already optimized mine. Through literature, it was found that specific energy can be used to analyse compressors. This method was used to characterise compressor systems and isolate areas where improvement projects may have a significant effect on a given mine’s compressor energy consumption. The methods for proposing and implementing further projects are discussed with illustration thereof as well as the corresponding effects. Current initiatives, if sustained may result, in as much as R4.5 million per annum in energy savings. A properly analysed system combined with well tailored, investigated and implemented projects can lead to further energy savings of up to R20 million per annum.

Keywords: Specific energy, compressed air system, compressor, simplified method, energy management, power demand, operational schedules