Switch from oil to liquid gas serves up big savings
Published: 22 November, 2021
PWE looks at the installation of VSRT steam boilers at a food processing facility, which is expected to cut costs by a significant 21%, while also reducing carbon emissions by almost 25% and nitrous oxide (NOx) levels by 75%.
Leading British condiments maker, Tracklements, has boosted its production capacity and enhanced its environmental credentials by switching its energy supply from oil to liquid gas from Flogas. The move to modern, efficient liquid gas-fired Fulton VSRT steam boilers is expected to cut the company’s Switch from oil to liquid gas serves up big savings costs by a significant 21%, while also reducing carbon emissions by almost 25% and nitrous oxide (NOx) levels by 75%.
The Wiltshire-based company has been making condiments for more than 50 years and has an extensive range of over 60 artisan products, from mustards, ketchups and sauces to pickles, chutneys, jams and jellies. All ‘handmade in small batches’ using natural ingredients, these are made in unique jacketed steam cooking pans that mimic traditional homemade methods, and for the last 40 years they have been powered by two Kerosene oilfired steam boilers.
Ben Read, operations director at Tracklements, commented: “We needed to increase our steam capacity to support the continued growth of the business.” He added: “But we’re also fully committed to improving our environmental footprint, so we wanted to move away from the higher carbon footprint which oil represents. By replacing our ageing oil-fired steam boilers with the latest liquid gas-fired VSRT models we’ve not only increased our steam capacity by 100%, but we’ve also cut costs and significantly reduced our carbon emissions in the process. This was a major factor in our decision, as Tracklements continues to work tirelessly towards our goal of planetfriendly products.”
Having worked with Fulton for over 40 years, Tracklements looked to them to specify a cutting-edge system that would help minimise its environmental impact. Fulton also recommended Flogas as a liquid gas supplier – one that could provide a reliable supply and trusted on-going service. Flogas and Fulton partnered to deliver Tracklements a full turnkey, end-to-end energy solution that also included all necessary ancillary equipment as well as service and training contracts.
Commenting on the project, Jeff Byrne, aftercare and business development manager at Fulton explained: “By modernising their steam raising equipment and changing their fuel type to liquid gas, Tracklements can expect an impressive 21% financial saving and a near 25% reduction in carbon emissions. These cost savings are based on current gas oil prices before the planned withdrawal of tax relief on red diesel in April 2022, so looking forward they’re actually far more favourable. Cost and carbon savings can also significantly increase by up to 30% when combined with the potential steam system efficiency savings by running the latest fully-modulating, highturndown liquid gas boilers. What’s more, our liquid gas-fired VSRTs will help minimise other pollutants, with NOx levels projected to reduce by 75% compared to the previous oil-fired steam boilers.”
Tracklements has a strong environmental policy and holds ISO 14001 certification for its green credentials. Read continued: “We’re constantly looking at ways we can enhance efficiencies and minimise the environmental impact of our artisan manufacturing process… We’re really glad to have now made a great step in that direction. Liquid gas is also more reliable for our business. Our tanks are fitted with auto-ordering technology, so as soon as they hit 40%, it triggers a re-order. It’s great peace of mind and leaves us able to focus on making great green condiments.”
Jude Hurley, business energy manager at Flogas added: “This is a great example of how a simple switch from oil to liquid gas can have a major impact, logistically, financially and environmentally. Not only will the company benefit from a more efficient, reliable fuel with fewer emissions, but it is also setting itself up perfectly for a seamless transition to renewable green gas in the future. Bio-propane is chemically identical to liquid gas, so when the time comes for Tracklements to become carbon neutral, it can be simply dropped in without any changes to equipment or infrastructure. It’s an energy solution that’s truly fit for the future.”
Flogas Britain Ltd
Flogas has more than 35 years’ experience in providing tailored energy solutions to commercial, industrial and domestic customers across the UK. From Liquefied Petroleum Gas and Liquefied Natural Gas to propane enrichment of biomethane – the company delivers highperformance, reliable, cost-effective energy solutions to suit customers’ exact needs. www.flogas.co.uk/business
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Tracklements
Based in the heart of Wiltshire, Tracklements has been making award-winning artisan condiments for over 50 years. Along with chutneys, relishes, pickles and sauces, The Tracklements range includes ketchups, jellies, salsas, mustards, fruit cheeses and Charcuteriments. It uses only the very best quality, natural ingredients, and works with British famers and spice growers from all around the globe to ensure the Tracklements products taste as good as the best homemade versions. For more information visit www.tracklements.co.uk
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Fulton
With manufacturing facilities in the United States, Great Britain and China, Fulton is a global manufacturer of steam, hydronic and thermal fluid heat transfer systems. Backed by over 60 years of research, innovation and experience, Fulton is building on a tradition of success and is focused on improving life through heat transfer solutions. For additional information about Fulton please visit www.fulton.co.uk
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