Buzzi Unicem’s Maryneal plant recognised for sustainability efforts

Buzzi Unicem USA’s Maryneal plant, Texas, was a finalist in the Innovation category at the 2014 Cement Industry Energy & Environmental Awards, presented by the Portland Cement Association (PCA) and Cement Americas magazine. The Innovation category recognises cement industry leaders in the development of innovation technologies and techniques relevant to environmental protection or energy efficiency.

In 2013, the Maryneal plant commissioned the first Horomill^® grinding system in the US, replacing the old cement grinding system, and the energy savings have been significant. From January 2009 through June 2013, the power consumption rate of the plant’s grinding system was 78.3 kWh per short tonne of cement produced. Between July and December 2013, Horomill power consumption averaged 47.7 kWh per short tonne of cement produced, representing a 40% reduction in power consumption and related greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the new system resulted in a reduction in noise levels and water consumption, and less off-spec cement.

The Energy & Environmental Awards, created in 2000 by the PCA, acknowledge individual cement plants that show continuous environmental improvement and go beyond government regulations and local laws to ensure that their processes contribute to making their communities better places to live and work. The Awards cover five categories: Outreach, Environmental Performance, Land Stewardship, Innovation and Energy Efficiency. Judges for the 2014 Awards included representatives from US EPA-ENERGY STAR, Wildlife Habitat Council, US Geological Survey, World Wildlife Fund and Cement Americas.

Adapted from press release by Rosalie Starling

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/the-americas/08092014/buzzi-unicems-maryneal-plant-recognised-for-sustainability-efforts-433/