Systematic Energy Management and Digitalization Measures
Drone project visualizes potential for saving energy
Environmentally compatible production makes a significant contribution to sustainability in the chemical industry. In order to detect and prevent energy and heat losses at our site facilities, we have launched a drone program at our Nünchritz site. We use a thermal imaging camera to detect heat losses in buildings and pipe bridges. We derive effective insulation measures from the results obtained, enabling us to save several 100 kW at the site.
Reducing Specific Energy Demand
Efficient Insulation Strategy for Plants and Buildings
To reduce the specific energy demand at Nünchritz, we continuously identify potential areas for improvement and implement appropriate measures every year. The specific energy demand per product unit here, for example, fell by around 50 percent between 2012 and 2022. At the same time it is important to identify and derive potential for increasing plant and process efficiency. As a result, we aim to reduce specific energy consumption at WACKER by a further 15 percent by 2030.
The drone deployment program will enable us to check the quality of the insulation in our heating networks. Insulation plays a key role in preventing energy loss.
Making Savings Potential Visible
To be able to record the energy condition of our plant, our drone is equipped with a thermal imaging camera. We use it to create a thermal image analysis of the entire 130 hectares of our site area. Cold nights, when there is a considerably marked difference in temperature between the ground and the thermal pattern of the piping systems, are ideal for this purpose. The sensors detect thermal radiation in the infrared spectrum and convert it into colored images. The color scale corresponds to a temperature scale. Suitable measures for reducing heat loss are then prioritized and implemented for the calculation data collected. The total savings potential is expected to be in the order of several 100 kW.
Neighborhood Day Ensures Transparency
Dealing with the issue of energy and how we approach our drone program was a key topic presented at Neighborhood Day 2022. At this annual event, we present our site services to the local community. Live events show local residents how responsibly the energy-intensive chemical industry handles the very important topic of energy. Response to the drone project was very positive.
“With the help of our drone project, we can detect heat loss particularly easily and take appropriate action.”
Muhamed Slomic, Infrastructure Manager, Nünchritz Plant
Regional Winner in 2023 RC Competition
Every year, as part of its Responsible Care competition, the German Chemical Industry Association (VCI) looks for exemplary sustainability projects which also serve as inspiration for other companies. The 2023 Responsible Care competition focused on the responsible and efficient use of energy. WACKER Nünchritz’s project to identify energy-saving potential using drone technology won first place. It serves as a perfect example of improving energy efficiency in the chemical-pharmaceutical industry and makes an important contribution to the industry’s transition toward achieving net zero by 2045. Having won in Northeast regional round, WACKER’s Nünchritz site now moves on to the VCI’s nationwide Responsible Care competition.
Find out moreSystematic Energy Management and Digitalization Measures with our Drone Project at Nünchritz Support the Following SustainaBalance® Goals:
WACKER has set ambitious goals to implement defined sustainable development goals by 2045. Our action plan is based on our SustainaBalance® strategy. This also provides for the achievement of key milestones by 2030. They consist of enabling sustainable solutions for our customers, saving resources and establishing a sustainable value chain.
Find out moreOur Contribution to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
A total of 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals cover strategies to improve health and education, reduce inequality, and promote economic growth. This also includes combating climate change and using resources responsibly.
WACKER's systematic energy management and digitalization measures in the form of our drone project at the Nünchritz site support the following SDG:
- SDG 13: Climate Action
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