title = "Energy Conservation on the Production Floor"

content = """
Energy cost is a significant operating expense at Ridgecrest Metalworks, and industrial energy use is a recognized contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. The facility has a documented energy conservation program as part of its ISO 14001 commitments and its cost reduction strategy. Operators directly control a meaningful portion of the facility's daily energy consumption through their operating habits.

**Major energy consumers on the floor.**
- CNC machining centers: 15–150 kW per spindle under load; idle power still significant.
- Hydraulic power units: Run continuously on many press and punch machines even during idle periods.
- Compressed air system: One of the largest energy users in a typical metal shop; leaks in compressed air lines waste energy 24/7.
- Furnaces and heat treatment equipment: Very high energy intensity; thermal efficiency depends on setpoint accuracy and minimizing door-open time.
- Overhead cranes: Motor power significant during lifts.
- Lighting: High-bay fluorescent or LED fixtures throughout; intensity and hours controlled by occupancy.
- Coolant pump and filtration systems: Run continuously during machining shifts.

**Operator conservation practices.**

1. **Shut down machines during extended idle periods.** A CNC machining center in ready/idle state consumes 20–40% of full running power. During breaks of 30 minutes or more, power down hydraulics and spindle according to the machine manufacturer's approved procedure.

2. **Compressed air.** Report air leaks immediately—a 1/8-inch orifice leak at 100 psi wastes approximately 25 SCFM, costing several thousand dollars per year. Never use compressed air to blow down clothing; use a brush or vacuum instead.

3. **Heating and ventilation.** Close bay doors promptly after material movements in cold weather. Heating the exterior is pure waste.

4. **Furnace management.** Batch parts efficiently to maximize furnace loading per cycle. Every empty furnace cycle wastes energy equivalent to a full cycle. Avoid unnecessary hold times at temperature.

5. **Lighting.** Turn off lights in unoccupied areas (offices, restrooms, storage rooms). Motion sensors assist but do not replace operator responsibility.

6. **Coolant pumps.** Turn off coolant pumps when a machine will not be running for the rest of the shift.

**Energy monitoring.** The facility tracks energy consumption (kWh, natural gas therms) per month and per unit produced. Unusual spikes in energy use can indicate equipment inefficiency, leaks, or process problems. Operators who notice unusually high temperatures, excessive hydraulic system noise, or constant compressor cycling should report it—these are often symptoms of energy-wasting equipment faults.
"""

version = "0.0.1"
