Arthur Moslow, Global Electrification Project Manager at Kanthal.Arthur Moslow, Global Electrification Project Manager at Kanthal, delivered an engaging presentation on "Gas-to-Electric Heating System Conversions for Decarbonization". In his discourse, Moslow outlines the motivations, methodologies, challenges, and benefits associated with embracing electric heating systems in industrial settings.
Motivations for Electrification
Thermal processes encompass a wide array of applications across industries. Traditionally reliant on gas-fired systems, these processes emit significant air pollutants such as CO2, NOx, and SOx.
Moslow underscores the multifaceted benefits of electrifying these thermal processes, spanning five key categories:
- Environmental Impact: Electric systems reduce emissions, fostering cleaner air and safer workplaces.
- Energy Efficiency: Achieving up to 95% thermal efficiency, electric heating is more energy efficient than gas systems that only achieve 70% thermal efficiency.
- Temperature Control: Electric systems offer precise ±1°C control, ensuring consistent product quality.
- Sustainability: Coupled with clean energy, electrification aligns with global climate goals.
- Operational Excellence: Remote operation and scalability enhance efficiency.
While utilizing renewable energy is ideal, it is essential to acknowledge that electricity stands as a more efficient alternative compared to oil or gas.
"However, when devising design considerations for an electric solution, it is imperative to prioritize sourcing electricity from clean and renewable energy sources. While utilizing renewable energy is ideal, it is essential to acknowledge that electricity stands as a more efficient alternative compared to oil or gas," Moslow emphasizes.
Overcoming Challenges: Designing Electric Heating Systems
Transitioning from gas-fired to electric heating systems involves a systematic approach, comprising four essential steps:
- Calculating electrical power requirements
- Designing electric heating systems
- Removing old gas systems
- Installing new electric systems
Moslow explains that the first two steps pose significant challenges and accentuate the importance of meticulous planning and analysis. "When it comes to the design phase, the key focus is on accurately determining the power requirements. However, a simple conversion from gas to electric power won't suffice. Numerous factors related to the existing furnace and application must be carefully considered."
"We recommend conducting thermal dynamic calculations, a service we provide and advocate for our customers. Furthermore, we propose utilizing computational fluid dynamics modeling (CFD). This approach facilitates the exploration of different options and design configurations for potential electric heating systems, ultimately determining the optimal solution. Essentially, it involves mapping out the customer's existing application and furnace process," Moslow adds.
Call to Action
Addressing the complexities of electrifying thermal processes, Moslow highlights Kanthal's unique value proposition, which industries can rely on to champion sustainability and achieve operational excellence. "In tackling these challenges, industries seek a reliable partner and Kanthal stands out in this regard," Moslow asserts.
"Our extensive product range provides unmatched versatility. With solutions spanning from a few hundred degrees centigrade to a blazing 1,850°C (3,360°F), we tailor our offerings precisely to meet our customers' needs. Our dedication to innovation ensures that we're always striving for the best fit for our customers, bolstered by our global reach," Moslow assures.
Post-presentation reflections
In his post-presentation remarks, Moslow highlights the collaborative nature of the session and shared commitment within the industry towards transitioning from gas to electric heating systems for the greater cause of sustainability.
Turning his attention to the petrochemical industry, Moslow observes a growing trend among companies towards decarbonization. Moslow draws attention to the transition towards fully electric systems and the exploration of hybrid solutions as intermediate steps, stressing, "Every company has unique names for their solutions, but they're all on the same path."
Reflecting on the impact of the session, Moslow notes the audience's keen curiosity and engagement, stating, "People were quite curious to learn more about the topic."
In conclusion, as industries continue to navigate the complexities of decarbonization, Moslow's remarks serve as a testament to the unity of purpose driving the electrification movement, signaling a promising future for sustainable industries.