Reduction of Heat Loss from Boiler Furnace Wall by Thermal Insulation in a Palm Oil Industrial Plant

Abstract

Reducing energy loss in boilers is a critical aspect of energy production systems in industrial plants. Insulating the boiler wall is an effective method to minimize heat loss. This study investigates the effects of rock wool insulation with thicknesses of 50, 75, and 100 mm on a 25-ton/hour boiler in a palm oil industrial plant. Two wall sections were analyzed: Section 1 with an area of 9.58 m² and an initial surface temperature of 263°C, and Section 2 with an area of 12.7 m² and a surface temperature of 174.5°C. Results revealed that insulation at Section 1 reduced energy loss and saved fuel by 93,091–94,442 kg/year, equivalent to 64,512–65,448 THB. Section 2 achieved savings of 57,323–58,460 kg/year, or 39,725–40,513 THB. Payback periods for Section 1 were 58, 73, and 89 days for 50, 75, and 100 mm insulation, respectively. For Section 2, the payback periods were 126, 158, and 190 days. The findings confirm that insulation is a cost-effective investment, significantly reducing fuel consumption and long-term operating costs.