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Rectifier Energy savings

We have mote than 20 rectifiers in our plant, some are 20 years old.
We are looking into reducing our energy costs and we are wondering if newer rectifiers
are more energy efficient than old rectifiers. Most of the rectifiers are Tap-Switch air vented, a few are SCR air vented.
Has there been any changes in technologies that have reduced energy consumption?

Thanks for your help

Carlos Piata
Plating Shop employee - Veracruz, Mexico
August 21, 2011

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You may be able to make some savings by installing the latest generation of rectifiers - but at high capital cost.

I have observed over many years that when tanks are not working, it is common to switch off the DC supply.
But the mains AC input to the rectifiers is often left on 24/365 leaving the primary circuit drawing current. Check your consumption meter when all tanks are "off".

Simply switching off at the mains input when not in use will often produce a significant saving.

Geoff Smith
Hampshire, England
August 28, 2011

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August 29, 2011

Thanks for your input, we'll check the AC inputs.

We thought that there may be newer rectifiers, not very expensive, with less energy consumption.

Thanks again

Carlos

Carlos Piata
- Veracruz, Mexico