Total site energy improvement using R-curve concept

A new method for analyzing an industrial energy system has been introduced in this paper. This method is based on the development and modifications of the R-curve concept. It consists of three graphical tools, namely, “R-curve”; “R-ratio vs. Total Annual Cost (TAC) curve” and “R-ratio vs. Emissions (EM) curve”. This new method can be applied to different scenarios which may include: retrofitting the utility system of a total site; and choosing the cleanest and most efficient and economical fuel for the boiler(s) of the utility system. Originally, “R-curve” indicates how the existing operation of utility system of the total site may be improved without any capital investments. “R-ratio vs. TAC curve” has been introduced to determine total annual cost of the utility system of a total site in each R-ratio value. “R-ratio vs. EM curve”, demonstrates the emission values of each pollutant in each R-ratio value.