Energy Analysis in the Natural Stone Manufacturing Process

Abstract

The current socio-economic situation, characterized by energy problems and environmental concerns, urgently requires an innovative intervention. Such action should be carried out in order to improve competitiveness and the strength of companies in general, and those belonging to the natural stone sector in particular. Production processes provide the largest source of data within a factory and it is therefore necessary to carry out an energy analysis, as it is a prerequisite for informed decision-making. This energy analysis would identify those areas where most energy is consumed. Consequently, an energy analysis was conducted on two of the most representative production processes (slab and tile production). First of all, researchers analysed each stage of the production process using IDEF0 standard notation. Previously, the power consumption was monitored from both electrical and thermal perspective and, using several energy indicators, an energy balance had been carried out. As a result of this analysis, the significance of electricity compared to gas was clearly identified; the analysis also showed that cutting and abrasive processes were more critical from an electrical point of view (in that order). Another important finding was that related to thermal energy: reinforcement processes were those with the greatest significance (and in particular those performed in ovens). Based on the conclusions of the energy analysis, it was possible to establish new research lines: design of cutting disc and multiblade framesaws, microwave curing technology applications, etc. Those research lines would therefore provide the most significant beneficial effects on the environment and energy saving and, hence, companies can overcome the current economic situation.