| Source Newsletter 2008 issue 1 |
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Technology Diffusion Helps Implementation
The Technology Diffusion model is a multi-step process that accelerates the penetration and adoption of pollution prevention technology innovations into the marketplace. MnTAP tested the model to determine if industry would be more likely to implement technologies after demonstrations or technology pilot projects were conducted in-plant, leading to more rapid adoption of the pollution prevention technology.
MnTAP recently completed an EPA-funded project in cooperation with the Kentucky Pollution Prevention Center and the Illinois Waste Management and Research Center that was focused on implementing technology diffusion principles to promote the use of innovative pollution prevention (P2) and energy efficiency (E2) technologies. MnTAP’s approach to this project included identifying opinion leaders that would identify innovative technologies, encouraging opinion leaders to mentor within their industries, providing technology demonstrations, and conducting pilots of applicable technologies that result in full-scale implementation.
MnTAP began using this approach in 2004 and 2005 with the fiberglass reinforced plastics (FRP) and wood finishing industries. Then in 2006 and 2007, MnTAP continued with FRP and added metal casting, metal finishing, and powder coating industries. The objective was to engage these industries using the technology diffusion model by exposing industry to innovative technologies and thereby getting those technologies implemented. As a result of this project from 2004 through 2007, a total of 25 demonstrations were held, 23 pilots were conducted, and 13 facilities implemented an industry technology identified by their peers. Many (18) are still in some process of evaluating technologies for implementation. Half that many (9) have rejected a particular technology for any number of reasons.
So far, MnTAP has been able to document waste reduction of 1,500 pounds of chrome; 3,400 gallons of chrome plating bath concentrate; 30,000 pounds of VOC; and 5,000,000 gallons of water. In addition, energy use reductions include 8,881 MMBTU of natural gas and 399,500 kWh of electric energy. Cost savings to companies total approximately $178,000.
The waste reduction potential includes over 1,100 pounds of styrene air emissions, energy reduction potential of over 18,485 MMBTU of natural gas and 1,729,000 kWh of electric energy. The cost savings potential is over $293,450.
Tennant benefits from technology diffusion
As part of the technology diffusion project, MnTAP staff worked with Tennant Company to implement new technologies in their conversion coating line. Due to this work, Tennant has dropped their cleaner temperature to 105°F and the conversion coating now runs at ambient temperature. Tennant has been very interested in conversion coating chemistries which will reduce their energy usage. Several chemistries have been piloted with the help of their chemical supplier and each test has resulted in lower operating temperatures while maintaining the corrosion and adhesion requirements of their coating system. They have been successful in reducing the temperature from 120°F in both tanks to 105°F and ambient temperature.
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McLean Thermal Conserves Water, Saves Money
Technology Diffusion Helps Implementation
Steam Trap Testing Can Lead to Big Savings
Event: Making the Case for Efficient Energy Management
Jeff Becker Joins MnTAP, Provides Solutions
Grant Program Offers Assistance to Small Manufacturers
Seven Minnesota Companies to Host Interns
An Answer for Used Solvents Questions: Recycling
Materials Exchange featuring Chisago County Exchange
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