How MicroSpec IR Analyzer can Help Your Plant Implement Cost Savings Strategies This Winter？

Is your vinyl chloride monomer plant prepared for the one-two punch this winter from volatile energy prices and sluggish consumer demand? According to the New York Times, energy prices are expected to reach record heights this winter in part due to fallout from the geopolitical crisis in Europe and OPEC+ production cuts. Simultaneously, consumer spending is also anticipated to shrink this winter due to inflation pressures according to JPMorgan CEO, Jamie Dimon.

This trend can already be seen in the American housing market where, according to the Federal Reserve, the inventory of new homes has reached levels not seen since the 2008 financial crisis. These high inventory levels will lead to a decrease in new constructions and subsequent decrease in demand for PVC containing construction products such as roofing membranes, pipes, siding, flooring, etc.

Reduced demand and raw material cost increases will force producers to adopt more efficient business practices to meet the pressures placed on them by the market. A producer will need to develop a data-driven plan that includes key performance indicators, or KPIs, to determine the best approach as how to respond.

One such KPI is the overall conversion efficiency of the plant. By monitoring moisture levels at key points in the process, producers can gauge how efficient they are at converting feedstock to vinyl chloride monomer. Even small shifts in the moisture content can have dramatic implications for your plant’s bottom line.

Unfortunately, an existing analyzer may not be providing an accurate reading. Reasons for this include factors such as instrument drift, fouling, mechanical failures, and lack of maintenance. Upgrading your analyzer to one manufactured to modern standards will remove these uncertainties altogether. Some key features to be on the lookout for when upgrading your analyzer include:

• Solid state design (I.E. no moving parts)
• Hazardous area certification
• Automatic zeroing
• Long-life tungsten light source
• Corrosion resistant construction

Applied Analytics’ MicroSpec MCP-200 Infrared Analyzer is an excellent choice that meets all these criteria. The video below explains the analyzer’s features in more detail. If you’d like to learn more, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our engineers today.

Watch: MicroSpec MCP-200 IR Analyzer Video