Mechanical Engineering.
Here are a few examples that highlight our Mechanical Engineering experience.
Engineering Study of Steam Utilization and Steam Elimination
Varo performed an in-depth study of a steam plant regarding existing steam utilization. As a result of the study, Varo was retained to perform the engineering design to replace the central steam plant with alternate local heating. The project resulted in millions of dollars in yearly energy savings.
Energy Conservation Study - Utility Area Heat Recovery
Varo was retained by a local plant to perform a review of several potential energy recovery projects in the utility area. Items that were investigated included recovery of heat from compressors, blow-down heat recovery, and preheat of boiler combustion air with boiler heat. Costs and savings were evaluated for several potential projects.
Phosphate Blending Plant
Varo was retained by an international company to provide a design-furnish solution for three new phosphate blending units, each producing a different product. Varo utilized the client’s preliminary P&ID drawings to design and implement an effective and cost efficient solution for the client. Varo managed the procurement process to ensure equipment was ordered and delivered appropriately . Varo also provided construction administration services to support the steel erection, equipment installation and process commissioning. The system consists of bag dump stations, mixing vessels for blending, dust collection, and pneumatic conveying of fine materials, as well as tote and bag filling.
Doughnut Machine Upgrade
Varo was retained to perform a study on the doughnut making machine at a local manufacturing company. The downtime and maintenance required to keep the production line running was excessive. Areas investigated included the proofer, the Reimelt doughnut fryer, the Boggner doughnut filler, and the conveyor system. After receipt of the report, the client contracted with Varo to design-build modifications to resolve various production line issues. Our responsibilities included engineering, design, installation and testing of modifications. Some of the changes we performed included replacing linear bearings on the filling machine, moving the take-up, balancing the load, decreasing chain tension on the filling machine, chain conveyor modifications, idler sprocket and take-up changes on the doughnut fryer, and doughnut transfer design changes.
Aseptic Filling Machine Hydrogen Peroxide Fume Capture Hood, Fan and Duct Design
Varo was retained to perform a review of a hydrogen peroxide fume issue in the aseptic filling room. As a result of the review, Varo designed a special fume hood and exhaust system with ductwork and a fan to remove fumes at the inlet and outlet of the aseptic filling machine. The capture hoods were designed to allow full view and access, while not impacting production and maintenance. In addition, vane dampers were installed in the main air handling return unit.
Bulk Storage, Batch Blending System
Varo was retained to provide engineering services for modifications and additions to an existing roof shingle manufacturing plant. The project included the modification of an existing batch/blending system inside the plant (i.e., re-routing conveyors, increasing conveyor capacity, adding automation equipment to the existing system). The project also included engineering and on-site services for a new rail receiving, conveying, storage, blending system for roofing granules, as well as mechanical, structural, civil and bulk storage design, and a batch reject system.
Energy Recovery Coil Filter Study - Process Heat Energy Conservation Project
Varo was retained to perform a study to determine the most practical means to keep a proposed energy conservation heat recovery coil clean during operation. The proposed coil would be subjected to a fine powder from the heat generating process exhaust. Several divergent alternatives were evaluated, and the various alternatives were graded on their practicality, cost, and effectiveness.