Angad Rajain, Global CSO and IFM Head, Tenon Group analyses how integrating technology and measurement with MEP services can help a manufacturing facility experience minimal downtime and improve efficiency of its assets.
The role of energy audits
They help us in identifying the areas where we can improve the level of energy conservation, which ultimately benefits clients in terms of cost saving and improved efficiency of the equipment. We generally compare the audit parameters with ECBC standards (Energy Conservation Building Code) defined by the government for commercial buildings and take corrective actions or advise clients accordingly.
Measurement of utilities
At the moment, we measure and analyse consumption parameters related to power, water and diesel manually at all our client locations where we are providing MEP Services. Based upon the collected parameters, we review the same on a monthly basis to find the variances and then work on corrective steps to optimise the consumption.
This optimisation can be done by changing the schedules of operating hours without affecting the operations of the client or by adjusting and tuning the equipment, such as strict control & tracking of Power Factor and suitably setting temperature limits in the HVAC system. We also ensure that the STP/WTP/ETP is operated at the best possible efficiency levels to ensure minimum wastage of water and maximum utilisation of treated water.
Reducing downtime
Wherever we are providing MEP services, we ensure that the Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) schedule for the assets under our charge is strictly adhered to and there are no breakdowns due to lack of servicing/maintenance of the equipment. The standard PM schedule is followed as per the OEM guidelines of the equipment.
We also ensure that there are regular checks by senior officers with engineering backgrounds to ensure that all these PM/PPM schedules are being followed. The knowledge and competence of the technical team deployed for maintenance services is checked from time to time, and regular training is imparted at site level for the type and model of the equipment at site. This helps us keep equipment running efficiently, and downtime is ruled out/minimised.
Real-time monitoring
At some locations, we have Building Management Systems (BMS) where the HVAC system is controlled mainly for even temperature control within the premises. This system also makes it easy for the team to control selective parts of the system from one place itself, reducing man-hours of the resources deployed for operation & maintenance at site. This system also helps in identifying problem areas to some extent, so that corrective actions can be taken accordingly.
Cost-saving choices
We advise our clients on the measures which would enable us/clients in saving costs, such as opting for solar energy, CNG-based generators, VFDs, and changing CFL/other lights to energy-efficient LED lights. We also recommend use of treated & recycled water to the maximum possible extent.