Economic evaluation of hazard control technology in a wet process cement plant

Abstract

Goal:  Retrofit technology has been suggested for the reduction of CO2 emission in cement manufacturing but the economic justification of this retrofit technology is rarely or not available. This research study aimed to evaluate the beneficial value of retrofit technology aimed at reducing CO2 emission in a wet process cement plant. Design / Methodology / Approach: Engineering Economic and cost estimation techniques were used to evaluate the overall annual cost of combination of retrofit technology. The overall annual cost of retrofit technology was determined in terms of capital cost, operation and maintenance cost and energy cost savings of retrofit. Results: The best strategy to reduce CO2 emission is the combination of adjustable speed drive for kiln; kiln drive efficiency improvement for kiln and process control and management system for kiln at 6% reduction target, giving a cost savings of $520,836 on retrofit for 10years and 1.41% reduction in total cost. Limitations of the investigation: Getting adequate plant data in Nigeria was a constraint during the research. Practical implications:  The results presented if implemented by Cement plant operators will ensure reduction in the CO2 emission and government can enforce Cement plant operators to adhere to strict environmental and safety regulations while litigations and sanctions can be employed to implements this policy. Originality / Value:  The study established economic justification of retrofit technology for CO2 emission reduction before eventual implementation.