Dissecting a Mass Spectrometer's Energy Use
Peter Rumsey, P.E., FASHRAE, Integral Group
Mass spectrometers are widely used in research laboratories. Recent studies of mass spectrometers have found that their energy use is in the range of two to three kilowatts (kW) of continuous demand, which is equivalent to the energy use of two typical homes. A recent study by the Integral Group on how to reduce the energy use of mass spectrometers has found that it is possible to lower their energy use by half.
The study, undertaken by Integral Group for Caltech, looked at a wide variety of existing mass spectrometers. The study included energy measurements and analysis of options to reduce energy use. It was found that half of the energy use of mass spectrometers is in the cooling and vacuum systems. The measurements also revealed that there was little or no energy reduction when the mass spectrometers were in the idle mode. The study developed a set of recommendations for lowered energy use that would result in a more than 50 percent energy reduction. The three primary strategies included:
- Lower energy use and better control of vacuum pumps.
- Replacement of process chillers with lower energy use chilled water plate and frame heat exchangers.
- Better control of the mass spectrometer during idle times.
The impact of lowering mass spectrometer use in existing laboratories could be exponential. However, no large investment is required. This presentation will outline strategies to achieve significant energy savings on existing equipment without a significant investment.
Biography:
A national leader in the design of low-energy buildings, Peter Rumsey has designed mechanical systems for data centers, cleanrooms, and laboratories that are among the most energy efficient in the United States. Mr. Rumsey is a registered professional engineer in 10 states, a certified energy manager, and a senior fellow of the Rocky Mountain Institute. He is a graduate of the University of California (UC), Berkeley's, mechanical engineering program and is a frequent lecturer at industry events, conferences, colleges, and universities, including UC Berkeley and Stanford University. Throughout his career, Mr. Rumsey has focused on transforming the building industry by designing affordable and dramatically energy-efficient buildings.