When does a pinch analysis make sense to use?
A pinch analysis is used for retrofit tasks and new construction projects. For new construction projects, the pinch analysis should, if possible, be carried out in the concept phase so that the derived concepts can be incorporated into the planning. This method can be applied to continuous processes as well as to discontinuously operated systems. In principle, the operation of the system is not restrictive. Carrying out pinch analyzes on discontinuous systems is more demanding and usually more complex.
Below are some common cases where pinch analysis makes sense to use:
- The company has annual energy costs of more than 300,000 CHF and needs heat for production, has cool demands and produces waste heat.
- The company would like to determine their CO₂ emissions, e.g. in the form of a roadmap for decarbonization or the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). The pinch analysis forms the basis for these further investigations.
- A pinch analysis is also an excellent starting point for establishing a target agreement to increase energy efficiency and reduce CO₂ emissions with the SFOE. If the company meets the agreed targets, it will receive a refund from the CO₂ taxes.
- There are necessary replacement investments for the energy supply, infrastructure systems or production facilities. As part of a pinch analysis, these new investments can be optimally dimensioned, the right technology selected and correctly integrated energetically into the overall system.
- For expansion and modernization of production plants and their energetic connection with the existing energy system.
- Generally, whenever profitability is to be increased, energy requirements or costs are to be reduced, new technologies are required and experience from other industries are sought after.