Steam Management- The 3M Approach

Abstract

As one of the world's leading manufacturers of innovative products, 3M is continually working to improve energy efficiency in offices, research centers, and production facilities. Steam system optimization is one of the keys to this process, beginning at the boiler room and continuing throughout the facility. Boiler selection, installation, and operation are carefully monitored to ensure that steam is produced as efficiently as possible. The program encourages 3M facilities to establish Steam Teams to monitor and maintain steam systems. These teams are in continual contact with corporate facilities specialists in order to readily resolve problems relating to distribution, piping, and trapping. Team goals include evaluating existing equipment installations to verify that their design is appropriate for today's needs, periodically evaluating steam traps for correct selection and correct operation, and regularly inspecting steam and condensate piping runs to ensure that they are functioning safely and correctly.