The new compressed air stations at Bischof+Klein Lengerich are meeting expectations: In the first six months since they entered operation, around 500,000 kWh of heat have been recovered. Bischof+Klein therefore saved around 50,000 cubic meters of gas, which were previously used to generate heat. The stations supply the entire plant. The compressed air network is controlled according to demand throughout the plant. 

The new generation of stations is significantly more efficient and is able to support the heating in Lengerich thanks to heat recovery.

Compressed air is used in virtually every line. It ensures, for instance, that winding shafts are firmly clamped or that the film is processed at the individual stations in the conversion lines. However, it also supports the packaging processes in the Logistics department and opens or closes the skylights.

A lot of energy is required to produce compressed air. The compressors compress the air to 6.2 bar, during which heat occurs. 60 percent of the input energy are converted into heat. This heat can now be stored in a buffer tank with a capacity of 10,000 liters. The water in this tank has a temperature of 75 degrees Celsius.

The consistent quality of the compressed air is also important. It has to be relatively cool (approx. 3 degrees Celsius), dust-free, and dry. Moisture is therefore withdrawn from it in the dryer.

Supply technician André Engel is satisfied with the new stations. They are interconnected and supply the entire plant. The compressed air network can be controlled throughout the plant and optimally according to demand. 
 

Image line: The new compressed air stations