A Novel Energy-Intensity Model Based on Time Scale for Quasi-Continuous Production in Iron and Steel Industry

Abstract

Energy intensity is an important assessment indicator of energy consumption. Unfortunately, the traditional energy intensity model (TEIM) has obvious limitations when applied to quasi- continuous production process, especially for small time scales (STS). Therefore, a novel energy intensity model (NEIM) has been established in this study. The NEIM includes three main stages. Firstly, the statistical period and time scale have been determined. Secondly, the concept of workpiece valid weight has been proposed for a given time scale. Then the specific calculation method has also been established. Thirdly, a NEIM has been suggested according to the definition of energy intensity. The application results for a reheating furnace show that the NEIM’s effectiveness has been verified via comparison with the TEIM for large time scale (LTS) and critical time scale (CTS), whereas the NEIM still has validity at STS. Additionally, calculation results for the NEIM reflect more trend information at LTS and CTS; whereas, more dynamic information has been reflected at STS. The aim of this research was to expand the NEIM application for different time scales. Meanwhile, NEIM can also be applied to various energy-consuming facilities.