Efficient Pollution-Free Steam Generation with Medium Voltage Electric Boilers

Steam has always been the primary heating source for the chemical processing industries. Historically the steam for process heating was generated from coal, oil, and other fossil fuel sources. Due to large heat duties and steam flow rates required it has not been feasible to consider low voltage electric steam generators since many applications require megawatts of power. However, now with medium voltage resistance heating, large multi-MW electric boilers can be installed and operated at much lower costs than low voltage electric boilers. When deciding which type of steam generation source to utilize it is critical to consider the total cost involved with purchasing, installing, operating, and maintaining your process heating equipment.

This presentation highlights the benefits of utilizing electric power to generate steam compared to traditional fossil fuel and low voltage electric steam generation sources. Advancements in medium voltage heating technology now allows electric process heating to be a viable heat source for large heat duty applications. Utilizing DirectConnect medium voltage technology (up to 7200V) reduces amp draw when compared to low voltage (480V). This reduction in amp draw drastically reduces the electrical installation costs. In specific applications, electric and fired heat sources can be utilized in tandem for optimal efficiency.

With the increased pollution reduction requirements and availability of renewable power sources, electric steam generation can reduce on-site costs by increasing efficiency and eliminating pollution sources.