Green without eco-bling
As energy saving climbs up plant engineers' agendas, Dr Tom Shelley reviews some of the good and not so good technologies for heating, ventilating and air conditioning
Space Heating - The heat is on
Heating large premises is a major challenge for employers seeking to ensure comfortable working conditions for employees, as well as the protection of the building's contents (such as stock or equipment) and fabric.
Spend a little, save a lot
Now that we know conventional energy costs aren't likely to fall any time soon, spending what turns out to be relatively little to save a lot has suddenly become much more attractive. All the more so, as engineers and business leaders alike see that - despite solar, wind, wave and revived nuclear power helping long-term - rising energy demand worldwide is bound to fuel price hikes for the foreseeable future.
Blowing hot and cold
Energy efficiency demands are driving ever more sophistication in both HVAC and building energy management systems. Steed Webzell aids plant engineers faced with tough technology decisions
The old ones are the best ones
Most worthwhile energy-saving techniques have been around for years, but, as increased energy prices, newer legislation and growing public awareness around emissions all force users to reconsider fuel consumption, many are now re-surfacing in subtly improved forms. However, while the growing market for green solutions is good, engineers need to reacquaint themselves with best technologies for different jobs - and beware of their limitations.