Energy Conservation and the Application of Renewable Energy: Recommendations for the Heat Treatment Industry in Thailand

Heat treatment processes, bulk or surface treatment, are energy intensive. Energy cost in the heat treating industry is approximated at about 20% of total production cost for parts that need heat treatment. Heat Treating Equipment and Hardware Materials; Energy and Environment; Processes and Heat-Treated Materials Technology have been identified as three important factors for energy cost reduction. Electricity, Light Fuel Oil, LPG, and CNG are the main sources of energy applied in the Thai heat treatment industry. Continuous increases in global energy costs and heightened awareness in climate change mitigation has given rise to efforts for energy conservation in the industry. Appropriate energy conservation methodology and the application of renewable energy will be crucial factors for the future competitiveness of the heat treatment industry in Thailand.