Implementing a Compressed Air Leak Preventive and Repair Program

Abstract

In recent years the energy cost in Puerto Rico has been constantly increasing. The reasons vary from more expensive fuel costs, new environmental regulations requirements and inefficiencies in the system. The major efficiency opportunities can be found in the plant systems, but frequently these opportunities are overlooked due to unawareness of the cost of the inefficiencies. One of the major system inefficiencies is the compressed air system. The problem in the compressed air system is the air leaks that result in higher production costs. Air leaks can be a significant source of wasted energy in an industrial compressed air system. To reduce these losses, the project will develop a strategy to reduce the air leakage. To reach this goal the Lean Six Sigma DMAIC methodology will be used. This methodology will go from defining a problem through implementing solutions and establishing best practices to make sure the solutions stay in place. Key Terms ⎯ Compressed Air System, DMAIC, Lean Six Sigma, Cost of Inefficiencies.