Finding out is the aim of a new Energy Center project targeting Wisconsin's 132 metal finishers. But it's a small industry that needs some help to really look into it. The guidebook will detail simple and effective ways that the metal finishing industry can save energy, reduce pollution, and improve operating procedures. Metal finishing includes both metal plating and painting. Metal plating is done electrochemically in large heated tanks.
Electricity is used to heat the tanks, drive grinders and polishers, and ventilate the shops.
In addition, compressed air powers many painting machines. All these end uses are possibilities for energy savings. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, which is participating in the program, asked the Center to produce the booklet. Environmental and safety manager Kelly Huss of Astro Industries in Green Bay, Wisconsin, says what interests her about the project is learning how other shops are saving energy. Maybe they're using something that we haven't thought of that would work for us too.