WATER/ENERGY CONSERVATION IN NAVY SHIPS

Abstract

ABSTRACTMaintaining adequate underway production of fresh water for potable and boilerfeed consumption her been a chronic problem for many Navy ships for decades. Although “energy free” low pressure auxiliary exhaust steam is used in water production, a recent investigation (Naval Engineers Journal, April 1976) concluded that a significant net energy cost is involved. This energy cost has become more significant due to 1) the rapid rise in fuel costs and 2) the reduction in available auxiliary exhaust steam as the Navy's Energy Conservation Program becomes implemented. Indeed, as the Navy's ships begin to increase their operating efficiency, the energy cost of fresh water will rice. Many ships exceed their water allocation of 30 gal/man‐day by 10 to 20 gallons. A goal was set to demonstrate that potable water consumption can be reduced by 20 to 25 gal/mm‐day without Impairing “Hotel” services by the use of water conserving approaches such as reduced‐flow showers; a modified laundry procedure; installation of flow meters at key locations; and other techniques. This conservation was demonstrated successfully during extended underway periods in USS Saratoga (CV‐60) and USS Jonas Ingram (DD‐938). Fleet‐wide implementation of these conservation approaches could save the Navy millions of dollars.