Report evaluates energy efficiency in automation

It is free to download from www.festo.co.uk/energyreport and provides a useful guide to the subject of efficiency with pneumatic and electric drives. The paper has been produced as part of a joint EnEffAH project, part of the German Government's energy research programme, and clearly outlines a broad range of technical and organisational topics. It explores the basic principles and measures for increasing energy efficiency and shows that the correct selection of technology (effectiveness) and the correct operation (efficiency) are critical.

Steve Sands, Product Manager at Festo, says: "Energy is an ever-more important issue and this guide is an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with pneumatic and electric drives systems as a whole. The research shows that the requirements of the application entirely determine the right technology mix for energy efficiency.

"As one of the leading automation technology companies, we have a deep understanding of both pneumatic and electric drive technologies. Through this report we can share our knowledge to help our customers make informed decisions on the correct selection of technology to maximise their energy efficiency.

"There are no quick-fix solutions for increasing energy efficiency, as it must be viewed in an overall context. Trying to save money at a component level without considering the overall system is in-effective and parameters must be looked at in detail to provide lasting efficiencies and savings. Lifetime costs really must be considered; it makes no sense for it to take 10 years to achieve a payback on an initial investment through improved efficiency if the expected life of the machine is only five years! Selecting the right measures and using drive technology correctly, means notable energy and cost savings can and must be reached."

To download the EnEffAH energy efficiency report go to www.festo.co.uk/energyreport.