Thermal Energy International’s FLU-ACE was selected for its proven performance, ease of integration, and ability to lower fuel consumption and Scope 1 emissions, supporting both regulatory compliance and science-based climate targets without compromising reliability.
The FLU-ACE system captures waste heat from four boiler exhausts, MECO still blowdowns, and vents, using it to preheat pretreatment and boiler make-up water, reducing energy consumption and supporting Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) savings.
Process blowdowns and vent streams are directed to a new effluent collection system via three-way valves, allowing safe diversion of hot blowdown either to the drain or into the FLU-ACE heat recovery circuit, maintaining reliable operation, preventing back pressure, and improving overall system efficiency.
The system integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure through new ductwork, dampers, valves, and a high-efficiency double-wall heat exchanger installed upstream of the site’s steam heating system. Recovered heat is circulated via a closed-loop water circuit, maximising reuse across utility and process operations.
This system is designed to heat an average of 13.6 m³/h of filtered water from 14°C to 54°C, delivering a thermal capacity of approximately 586 kW.
Thermal Energy’s solutions align perfectly with the pharmaceutical sector, where low-grade heat is abundant but often underutilised, addressing the industry’s need for GHG reductions and compliance with regulatory frameworks.
As a result, the customer is working closely with Thermal Energy to expand the success of this project to additional sites, exploring further opportunities for heat recovery and electrification solution.