Computerized I&M Programs for Oil-Fired Space Heating Boilers

Compliance with the forthcoming strict short-term smoke (or PM-2.5) and SO 2 standards makes indispensable the implementation of vigorous inspection and maintenance (I&M) programs in urban areas with oil-fired space heating boilers. In the present paper two relevant software packages are analyzed. The first is designed to assist planners in studying the feasibility of I&M programs in a particular area, guiding them in the collection of data and performing analysis to evaluate the environmental, energy, and economic implications. Application of this package in seven Greek cities revealed the possibility of reducing the emissions of smoke, SO 2 , and NO x by 75%, 6.7%, and 11%, respectively, and the fuel oil consumption by 6.7%. The second package expedites the implementation of I&M programs in any area. This package is designed to request annual maintenances from each building superintendent, to analyze the quality of boiler maintenance performed, to generate boiler inspection programs, to produce feedback letters and fines to superintendents and maintenance mechanics, and to compile technical and statistical reports.