GENERAL METHOD FOR EVALUATION INTEGRAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN THE SUGAR MILLS

Abstract

We present in detail a general approach that allows fully assess the energy performance of the sugar mills. The methodology is based on performing mass balances and energy in all sections of the industry, from the mills to the bins, including the steam generators. To carry out these balances using data that must be known in most of the cases or that, but if available, can be estimated with a high degree of reliability. Calculation equations involved are fully informed on relevant theoretical background and only when essential approximations or considerations are fully justified and validated by practical experiece. The effectiveness of this methodology was found to be implemented in 12 sugar mills, with dissimilar energy schemes in the provinces of Santiago de Cuba, Holguín and Granma. In all the necessary information was obtained that allowed to know the behavior of the parameters that must be taken into account in the comprehensive assessment of energy efficiency of the process and therefore make decisions on their technical staff.