Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
Contributions to the Greater Good
To bring clean energy initiatives to manufacturing and energy production is both a challenging, yet rewarding responsibility. Central Metal Fabricator’s gas turbine silencers, components, and services are vital to advancing green, pollution-free futures in power generation.
As a leader in the turbine industry since 1948, Central Metal offers a wide range of services including the fabrication, assembly, and installation of gas turbine silencing equipment and components, as well as, turbine repair and replacement.
Big or Small, CMF Does it All
The skilled laborers here at Central Metal Fabricators have worked on a wide variety of projects in manufacturing and power generation. Regardless of your location or the size of the job, we have the expertise to handle an assortment of turbine and welding projects. Some of our successes include:
Large City Projects
Our friendly team is capable of completing intensive work on dozens of turbines in big cities. A recent New York City venture, for example, was completed promptly under strict deadlines.
National Project Scope
Central Metal Fabricators has done work in a wide selection of locations, ranging from Canada to Long Island (lighting), and Long Island to Georgia (power plant). Regardless of where the project is, we can help complete it.
Engineering Expertise
In-house engineers can recommend silencers and designs to maximize control over unwanted noise pollution from turbines.
Central Metal Services
Our experienced, dedicated staff can fabricate, assemble, and install gas turbine silencing equipment, as well as, any related metal parts. Additionally, for aging silencing systems, experts can work with you to determine next steps. Do you need a repair, retrofitting, or would you be better off with a full replacement? CMF engineers are ready to work with you, on-site, and at your location, to warrant your best business move for both your operation and budget.
Additionally, our certified welders offer a range of state-of-the-art welding services to suit your fabrication needs, including gas metal arc welding, flux core arc welding, and shielded metal arc welding.
Stay connected with Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. by following us on LinkedIn and Twitter, as well as our blog. For your gas turbine projects, learn more about CMF products and services by contacting us today.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
Initially, ethanol seemed like a good idea, presented as a viable and renewable alternative fuel source. Unfortunately, the corn-based biofuel has not lived up to environmental expectations and may present more significant challenges. Ethanol blends produce air pollution, reduce fuel efficiency, increase corn and related food prices, and potentially cause engine damage to the vehicles which use them, according to this year’s report from the Environmental Protection Agency.
Environment Impact of Biofuels
In June, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released Biofuels and the Environment, a second triennial report to Congress which reported these findings and concluded corn-based biofuels are likely not the best approach for ensuring environmental health. Specific conclusions from the report include:
Land Use
Approximately 90 million acres are used annually for growing corn, with more than 40% dedicated to producing corn-based ethanol. This increased demand for corn cultivation creates a lack of biodiversity, deforestation, and competition for land.
Air Quality
Emission impacts of ethanol production and distribution should include considerations for volatile organic compounds, particular matter, and nitrogen oxides.
Water Use
Growing corn requires water, and the increased demand for corn-based ethanol is stressing aquifers and surface watersheds.
Soil and Water Quality
Biofuel feedstocks negatively impact soil and water quality through erosion, loss of nutrients, and excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Invasive Species
Due to genetic modifications, herbicide-resistant feedstock, and associated herbicides, cultivation practices within the biofuel industry are creating herbicide-resistant weeds.
EPA’s Plan of Address
Recognizing a critical need for a plan of action, the EPA proposes several mitigation factors, including:
More research to better understand land use changes due to biofuel feedstock production
A federal effort to improve efficiency and sustainability in the biofuel supply chain
A complex evaluation of the impact of environmental and natural resources through biofuel production
Improving understanding of changes locally to enhance information resources for mitigation of adverse impacts
Encourage, incentivize, and promote conservation and sustainability in agriculture.
Learn More
At Central Metal Fabricators, we see the value in environmental care, EPA guidelines, and appropriate actions for conservation. As a leader in gas turbine silencing equipment since 1948, CMF produces a wide range of products used by both the standard fuel and biofuel industries.
To learn more about our initiatives and expansive line of products, please contact us. Stay current with the latest industry trends by following our blog, Twitter, and connecting with us on LinkedIn.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
What is National Manufacturing Day?
Created in 2012 by the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association, National Manufacturing Day has garnered nearly 600,000 participants within the manufacturing industry, including more than 267,000 students. As a proud industry contributor since 1948, Central Metal Fabricators welcomed the annual event on Friday, October 5, 2018.
Technological Advancements: What Today’s Industry Really Looks Like
Supported and produced by organizations such as the Manufacturing Institute (MI), National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), National Manufacturing Day helps in-field experts illustrate modern business realities to local communities. NMD dispels any stigmas and misconceptions about today’s trade. Plant, warehouse, and lab tours give the general public a look at what goes on behind facility walls—a much different shop floor from what is commonly perceived. The manufacturing industry exclaims that “this isn’t your grandfather’s factory anymore!” Modern technology on the shop floor shows how drastic advancements in the industrial sector have actually come over the past several decades.
Not only do raw material production, engineering, and construction contribute to a global and national circular economy, but they also serve as generous career paths for any persons interested in pursuing STEM and STEM Education careers.
Survey results from previous National Manufacturing Day advents show that increased awareness is helping to improve the public’s perception of manufacturing. Nearly 90% of both teachers and students who participated said they felt more aware of manufacturing jobs in their communities, and 64% of students claim they were inspired to pursue a manufacturing career.
In a press release, Manufacturing Institute’s Executive Director, Jennifer McNelly stated,
“Manufacturing Day is all about showing the community that this industry provides sustainable, well-paid jobs, with limitless opportunities for advancement. The overwhelmingly positive results of this survey tell us that the American public is seeing the possibilities in manufacturing careers.”
Positive Impact on the Industry at Large
Since 2017, manufacturing has been on the rise and is continuing to see increases in capital equipment expenditures and hiring. Astonishingly, more than 320,000 new manufacturing jobs in a 12-month period between 2017 and 2018 have been created.
The state of the manufacturing industry is expected to continue to see a positive return. The MAPI Foundation predicts a full output recovery from the great recession of 2008-2009 by April of 2019.
Big National Manufacturing Day Endeavors
At Central Metal Fabricators, we support National Manufacturing Day roots including:
Bridging the U.S. Generational Skills Gap
STEM Learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Reshoring (bringing jobs back to U.S. soil)
With seven decades of experience in American manufacturing, Central Metal Fabricators stands strong in supporting the efforts of National Manufacturing Day that ushers in a renewed strength and vitality to our critical industry. As a leading producer of gas turbine silencing equipment, we applaud National Manufacturing Day and its efforts to drive continued awareness. Notable and persistent efforts like those behind the National Manufacturing Day are crucial to improving our industry’s brand image – an indispensable and “survival of the fittest” business tactic.
Stay in touch with industry trends and manufacturing news by following our blog, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
For more information on our products and services, contact us today.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
For decades, coal and other fossil fuels have been instrumental for the generation of electrical power in the United States. However, the burning of fossil fuels has, over time, come at a tremendous cost. The chemical processes that allow coal to generate energy also contribute to its harmful effects on the environment.
As coal burns, the chemical bonds that hold the carbon atoms in place are broken, causing the release of hazardous and potent greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. These gases rise into the atmosphere and act as a heat-trapping blanket, warming the earth’s surface. If left unchecked, continuous greenhouse gas emissions can lead to increasing temperatures, elevated sea levels, droughts, heat waves, intensified rainfall, and loss of animal species.
The Trump Administration & the EPA’s Push
The Trump administration’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking to replace the Clean Power Plan (CPP) implemented by the former administration. The newly drafted proposal still aims to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, albeit with regulations far less stringent than the CPP finalized in 2015.
In October 2017, former head of the EPA, Scott Pruitt, signed a measure to repeal the CPP. In summary, the previous CPP outlined several goals for limiting emissions by employing methods such as shifting from coal to natural gas and building wind or solar farms. However, newly drafted regulations from the current administration, while still favoring coal, aim to regulate greenhouse gas emissions by making modifications to existing coal plants without changing utility modes.
Coal Vs. Clean Energy
The CPP was widely heralded by fossil fuel advocates as “the war on coal.” However, despite attempts to breathe new life into the coal power industry, coal struggled to compete with cheaper and cleaner sources of energy. Many coal-fired power plants are either being retired or converted to natural gas. Additionally, the construction of new coal power plants has halted since they are more expensive than natural gas, solar, and wind energy facilities.
According to several studies, the amount of electricity generated from coal power in the United States declined from 51% in 2008 to 31% in 2016. Natural gas has now surpassed coal, supplying 32% of total U.S. electricity (up from 21% in 2008). Furthermore, solar and wind energy sources have increased from 3% in 2008 to 10% in 2016.
Stricter Environmental Regulations
Ultimately, stricter environmental regulations and the gradual shift from coal to cleaner sources of energy bodes well for the environment and public health. Not only can the reduction of greenhouse gases prevent or slow down the progression of global warming and climate change, but it can also stop the spread of harmful toxic airborne pollutants into the atmosphere.
EPA regulations regarding air, water, and noise pollution must be taken into account by those in the power generation sector. The implementation of emission-reducing equipment is, therefore, instrumental when adhering to federal regulations.
Learn More
At Central Metal Fabricators Inc. our state-of-the-art silencing equipment aims to tackle the least-discussed form of pollution often produced by coal-powered gas turbines: Noise pollution. Constant loud noise, such as that emitted by turbines, can have a harmful effect on workers and others who are exposed to it.
We custom manufacture several types of gas turbine silencer equipment to reduce harmful noise to acceptable levels in accordance with EPA regulations. We also work with professionals in the power industry to custom manufacture equipment and accessories to reduce the emission of standard pollution.
To find out more about our solutions and products, feel free to contact our technical team today. Also, be sure to follow our blog, follow us on Twitter, and follow our LinkedIn page to stay up to date on current industry news and trends.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
The History of Earth Day, Present Day Facts:
In the 1970s, America and the world at large took notice of the havoc being wreaked on the environment. The importance of fundamental requirements like clean air and water became a global initiative.
Although Earth Day began almost 50 years ago, waste production in the U.S. consumes 25% of the world’s yearly quota of resources.
40% of American lakes are deemed too polluted for fishing or swimming. Each year 1.2 trillion gallons of untreated waste is dumped into U.S. waters.
Today, the global phenomenon is celebrated on April 22nd, bringing a wake of awareness in its path.
The countdown to Earth Day includes nationwide conservation with school and businesses focusing on improved pollution projects throughout and beyond April.
Central Metal Fabricators on Two Types of Pollution:
As a leading manufacturer of boiler and turbine accessories, we work with two different kinds of pollution: noise and standard.
Since 1948, Central Metal Fabricators has been specializing in gas turbine silencing equipment. We design and manufacture products and parts for use with combustion turbine units.
A look back at the history of combustion turbines would include an incredible amount of noise, considered pollution to those stationed nearby. Today, our team works to combat noise pollution by producing top-of-the-line silencing equipment.
EPA Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants:
EPA Standards state, “national emission standards for hazardous air pollution (NESHAP) for combustion turbines. Stationary combustion turbines are identified as a major source of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) emissions such as formaldehyde, toluene, benzene, and acetaldehyde. The NESHAP will implement section 112(d) of the Clean Air Act (CAA) by requiring all major sources to meet HAP emission standards reflecting the application of the maximum achievable control technology (MACT) for combustion.”
Connect with Central Metal Past April:
This April, we’re happy to bring attention to the multiple types of pollution that our industries face across the board, in the best attempt to harvest conservation efforts and prevent the variations of air pollution in a multitude of surroundings.
To stay up-to-date on the latest in the manufacturing industry, turbines, and more, continue to follow the CMF team on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
A boiler is not sensational. A steam turbine doesn’t sound revolutionary. But the duo keeps most of the industrial world ticking.
2018 will be a positive and stable year for these key industries. With strong growth will come the promise of new jobs. The anticipated turn-around of the state of manufacturing in the country may just be evinced in their numbers.
Power Plants are Driving the Turbine Demand Curve
The turbine industry in the US is valued at a whopping 17 billion dollars and the market keeps expanding by 3.4% every year.
With the question of green and clean energy receiving a lot of attention, a major reason behind the escalating turbine momentum is the eschewing of coal-based power plants. Electricity requirements are expected to peak over 2018 to 2025. But the concern for the environment means power suppliers will try to balance fossil fuel output with clean and renewable output.
Plants that run on natural gas offer a sustainable alternative.
From Disney Land to Industrial Operations, Boiler Sales Pick up “Steam”
The iconic Disney trains that circle the amusement park are driven by boilers which consume a soy-based biodiesel. And many other public attractions have been inspired by this creative effort on part of the brand.
There are hardly any factories in the US where hot water boilers do not have the responsibility of seeing operations to completion.
Even the HVAC systems in homes depend on chiller boilers to maintain desired ambient temperatures.
Thus it’s no small wonder that the global boiler market is all set to touch a record high of 11.6 billion dollars in 2018. The strictly industrial segment is smaller at $803 million, but even this niche will experience growth of 2.8% by the end of the year.
Central Metal Fabricators is a Leader Serving These Industries
Lauded as a quality manufacturer of dampers for gas turbines, boiler accessories, boiler casings, busbars, steel hoppers and dampers for turbines, the positivity that’s on the horizon for the turbine and boiler markets also promises to make 2018 significant for Central Metal Fabricators.
We’ll continue to develop our existing product catalog and invest in perfecting services like sheet metal fabrication, replacement of parts and flux core arc welding, gas metal arc welding and shielded metal arc welding services.
We’re fully equipped to be a reliable partner for the manufacturing industries doing brisk business over the next 12 months.
If you are interested in staying abreast of the trends sweeping strategic production sectors, please follow us on the blog, Twitter and LinkedIn.
You can also connect with us here for a custom quote.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
The annual National Manufacturing Day is the first Friday of October, so mark your calendars for Friday, October 6th, 2017. The initiative brings together manufacturers and communities in an educational way to address common industry issues.
MFG DAY events near you are listed on the site for interested personnel such as students, educators, media, politicians, and businessmen alike.
Industry Issues to Address
Although manufacturing is key to the economy, it still has its share of disputes. Current concerns being addressed are the manufacturing skills gap, public misconceptions about the industry, the amount of male versus female workers in the field, and the outsourcing of jobs overseas for cheaper labor.
National Manufacturing Day is one of the biggest initiatives supporting methods to overcome each hurdle.
What the National Manufacturing Day Entails
During both public and invitation-only visits, manufacturers have the opportunity to dissolve any myths about the manufacturing industry. Common misconceptions include dirty shop floors and low-paying positions, but today’s industry happens to be quite the opposite.
Step foot inside a facility and you will see that today’s manufacturing industry means technological advancements, STEM skills, secure job placement and benefits, as well as economic benefits across the country and across the globe.
The Importance of Manufacturing Today
The manufacturing sector has grown faster than the rest of the U.S. economy since the recession that ended in 2010. Manufacturing significantly impacts today’s economy, spurring economic growth, as well as encouraging innovation with its technological improvements in machinery. Plus, services are dependent on manufactured items. Let’s not forget that manufacturing creates employment too.
Central Metal and National Manufacturing Day
Central Metal Fabricators supports each National Manufacturing Day initiative, including bridging the skills gap, supporting male and female student proficiencies in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and encouraging reshoring of manufacturing activities.
Central Metal Fabricators has been a leading designer and manufacturer of gas turbine silencing equipment in the U.S. for more than half a century. Our gas turbine and utility parts such as hoppers, bus bars, boiler panels, and tanks are top quality. Our team works efficiently to fit within your project timelines.
To discuss how we can help your company initiatives, please contact us today.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
What are the future expectations of wind and solar energy for supplying global power? Here at Central Metal Fabricators, we fabricate, assemble, and install gas turbine silencing equipment and associated metal items. Our panel of industry experts delve into the matter below, and the findings might surprise you.
IEA Projections on Renewable Energy
As per data from the International Energy Agency (IEA), wind and solar power will generate more of the world’s energy by 2040 than it does today. But, while primary energy demand (TPED) renewables, which includes solar and wind, have higher usage than 1990, it likely amounts to less than you imagine.
In 2014, solar cells or photovoltaic (PV) cells and wind contributed a meager 0.6% of total global energy. Fast forward to 2040 and this number increases, but only to 2.9%. Respectively, coal, oil, and gas will continue to dominate as the top three energy power sources around the world.
Plus, the IEA prediction assumes that every country complies with the Paris Agreement on climate change. The US is currently not in the climate accord, and compliance is not likely to be gained by every other country, so the IEA’s estimate of less than 3% is likely more than it will be come 23 years from now.
Natural Gas and Nuclear Power Estimates
Natural gas will grow faster as an energy resource than any other TPED, accounting for 25 percent of global demand by 2040, based on projections by a recent ExxonMobil report. This will be less than oil, which will be the biggest resource, providing about 32% of the world’s energy, and more than nuclear power at 7%.
While renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind will grow over the next few decades, its development will be considerably slower than the rate and volume of natural gas.
Applying the Research
Regarding the above, you have an idea of the world’s energy picture for the near future, including only about 3% renewables. Understanding the energy supply for Central Metal Fabricators and many other industrial manufacturers is important so that we use the sources wisely to craft optimal products and plan for the future.
Internally, we manufacture an array of industrial products including dampers for gas turbines, boiler casings, steel hoppers, and busbars. Our top quality engineering design service replacement parts, gas metal arc welding, flux core arc welding, and more.
Stay on top of relevant trends by following us on our blog, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Be sure to contact us to place your next industrial product order or if you have any questions.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
As renewable energy sources, namely solar and wind energy, increase in popularity, many manufacturers are wondering where this leaves them.
What is the Dilemma?
As an industry, manufacturing is a large energy consumer. The paramount worry for many in the field is that their own energy sources will be siphoned off by grid operators when solar and wind drop short of expectations. The unreliable true nature of renewables is an unfortunate reality; if it is not a sunny or windy day, then neither energy source is strong.
From a manufacturing standpoint, the growing number of large-scale solar and wind facilities makes for an unreliable grid and reduces power quality, all of which are worrisome because they can equate with safety and reliability issues at the manufacturing site. These risks lay squarely on the shoulders of the energy consumers, with some of the biggest being manufacturers. While the eco-friendly nature of solar and wind as power sources are plentiful, there are issues with adopting them across the board.
Recently, the Industrial Energy Consumers of America (IECA) spoke to the Washington Examiner. As per IECA CEO and President Paul Cicio, “Industrials are not in the business of generating and selling power. We are in the business of producing manufactured products.” Cicio adds that manufacturers cannot meet internal demands for power or steam if they act like a consumer power plant.
Looking for Solutions
It is the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), federally chartered regional transmission organizations, and self-regulating system engineers of these markets that look over the issues. But the FERC’s latest Primary Frequency Response notice of proposed rulemaking will likely only serve to exacerbate the problems and put more responsibility on manufacturers. Unfortunately, utility operators and mechanics often do not have in-depth experience of manufacturing processes, thus not understanding the reliability that is vital for manufacturers.
Currently, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation is assessing the situation based on manufacturers’ grievances and any changes will occur through the standards design process.
Central Metal Fabricators
As a leading manufacturer of gas turbine silencing equipment, it is our responsibility to bring awareness to various circumstances that influence the manufacturing industry.
Here at Central Metal Fabricators, our experts will continue to keep you abreast of developments as we fabricate, assemble, and install top-quality gas turbine silencing equipment and related metal products.
Posted by Central Metal Fabricators, Inc. on | Leave a Comment
Have you seen the environmental science education video, “Can We Rely on Wind and Solar?” It’s popular on the social media scene, with more than 644,000 views in the last few weeks. The video asks the question, “Why do solar and wind combined provide less than 2% of the world’s energy?” The video presents a case for using fossil fuels as are energy supply resource contrary to popular beliefs promoting wind and solar energy.
In the video, Alex Epstein of the Center for Industrial Progress, says, “The only way for solar and wind to be truly useful would be if we could store them so that they would be available when we need them.” But, there is no realistic way to do so.
Epstein points out that the process of generating energy for mass consumption from renewable sources is expensive. He also notes that wind energy and solar energy are “unreliable” and “intermittent,” saying, “Yes, the sun is free. Yes, wind is free. But the process of turning sunlight and wind into useable energy on a mass scale is far from free.” Epstein adds, “Compared to other sources of energy – fossil fuels, nuclear power, and hydroelectric power – solar and wind power are very expensive.”
There are other issues, too. According to Epstein, the unreliability or “intermittency problem” of wind and solar energy is the main reason why there aren’t any freestanding solar or wind power plants in the world. He says, “In the entire world, there is not one real or proposed independent, freestanding solar or wind power plant. All of them require backup. And guess what the go-to backup is: fossil fuel.”
Whether or not you’re wondering if “green” energy, specifically wind and solar energy, are the solution to our world’s climate and energy problems, you might want to take a few minutes (less than five minutes) to watch the video. Or if you’d like to explore the types of turbines and related industrial products the energy industry is using to produce power for global mass consumption, check out the Central Metal Fabricators website.
