Energy Insider – 3rd Quarter 2019

• September 30, 2019
• Category: Energy Insider

 

Many commercial and industrial members served by SECO Energy have a multitude of motors powering their daily processes. According to an article in the Business Energy Advisor, about half of the energy consumed in the U.S. is through electric motors.

 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the manufacturing industry can save about 11-18% using proven methods when it comes to motor replacement. It’s all about selecting the right replacement – one that is efficient and saves energy.

 

When replacing a motor, consider only motors that are newer than 2015. These motors are more efficient and meet guidelines set by the U.S. DOE. SECO member, E. R Jahna Industries understands the importance of newer motors. They utilize a multitude of motors in their mining operations. According to Lead Electrician, David Quinn, “Jahna purchases premium efficiency motors on all new equipment. Surprisingly, the efficiency of these motors is high when loaded to 60% of nameplate amperage.”

 

In energy conscious companies, it is common practice to replace all motors up to 125 hp with newer, premium efficiency motors. Some companies prefer to rebuild their motors or buy a rebuilt motor. However, if not done carefully, a failed rebuilt motor will be at least 2% less efficient.

 

Motor maintenance is very important for keeping efficiency in line with nameplate values. “Causes of motor failure are usually brought about by the user,” according to David Quinn. “For example, concrete plant motors are usually covered in concrete; at a sand mine, most motors are covered in sand. So, with that being said, put on a winter coat during summertime and run a 5K. You are lowering the life expectancy and the efficiency of the motor.”

 

When making the choice between motor replacement or rebuilding an existing motor, take into consideration the following:
• Purchase the right size motor
• Evaluate variable frequency drives
• Account for power factor
• Compare the economics for repair versus replacement

 

Moving forward when it comes to motors, you can benefit by developing a motor inventory and creating a basic motor management/maintenance plan with a focus on critical motors. When it comes time for replacement, do your homework and make the best choice for your business.

 

For more information on induction motors visit Biz Energy Insider.

 

 

Although Marion County is officially known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” it is also becoming known for the Ocala Arts Festival. The festival brings in thousands of people annually with attendance averaging around 24,000. It’s a big event and considered one of the best in the community with over 161 artists expected to participate again this year and sell their merchandise inside six city blocks.

 

The 53rd Ocala Arts Festival will be held on Saturday and Sunday, October 26th and 27th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event features artists from all over the United States competing in various categories – drawing, graphics, painting, sculpture, wood, clay, glass, metal, and photography just to name a few. The festival provides artists with the opportunity to compete for awards totaling $27,000. Local elementary, middle and high school students are eligible to compete for awards totaling $1,240.

 

Entertainment is provided both days of the festival by a variety of local talent. The Mudd’s Jazz and Blue Combo, Left on Broadway (including special guest The Greg Snider Quartet) and Miranda Madison will perform on Saturday. On Sunday, Caly and Megan Music and Nino Castaneda Latin Jazz Band will be performing with many other bands, choirs, dance and drama groups from surrounding public and private schools. There will be a caricature artist, face painters and harp and flute performers. The festival is an event the entire family will enjoy.

 

Seventeen food vendors will be located throughout the downtown area serving a wide variety of options. Free parking is available at the parking garage accessed off southeast Broadway. Note, the first floor is reserved for handicap parking only.

 

This event is produced by Fine Arts for Ocala, a nonprofit, whose mission is to promote the appreciation of the arts and to enhance art education within the community. For more information, including history, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, go to Fine Arts for Ocala.

 

 

The City of Wildwood is a quaint town with many lifelong residents. Through decades of growth, these residents have seen such incredible change that is sometimes hard to fathom.

 

This history of Wildwood reflects stories of workers giving directions using the lingo “out in the wild woods.” Fast forward to 1980, the community housed over 2,600 residents. Almost forty years later, in 2018 7,000 folks call Wildwood home. As Loretta Lynn said, “we’ve come a long way, baby.”

 

Wildwood has grown in such a way that the facilities are getting facelifts to help “catch up with the times” aesthetically. Future roadway plans are in place to help with the parking and pedestrian issues – a result of the population growth as described by Jason McHugh, Wildwood City Manager, in a recent Chamber of Commerce meeting.

 

Recreation offerings from the City of Wildwood continue to move forward by leaps and bounds. From decades past, with minimal recreation offerings, to today with countless recreation offerings, it is clear Wildwood is forward-thinking regarding the growth of the community. Dennis Andrews, City of Wildwood Parks and Recreation Manager, states, “We have added over 35 programs and special events. We identified demographics including seniors, families and youth needing things to do in our community.” As a result, the City offers sports leagues for all ages.

 

Erika Corley, Wildwood’s Special Event Planner/Recreation Specialist says, “The recent growth of Wildwood has been wonderful. The support from our residents, both new and longtime, has been exciting. The best part about the growth within the community for the Special Events and Parks Recreation Department, is that it has given us the ability to raise the bar, providing bigger and greater special events, leagues and recreational activities!” Dennis Andrews says, “It is awesome to see the community come together and support us. I am looking forward to the future.”

 

To learn more of what Wildwood has to offer, visit Wildwood Florida and click on the Parks and Recreation tab. You can also visit the Wildwood Community Center at 6500 Powell Road and speak to the parks and recreation folks. Whatever you do, please don’t assume this is the same ol’ Wildwood from decades ago. There is something for everyone in the new city.