2023 CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

Two Conference Tracks
TRACK 1: On-Site Utility Sustainability: Energy & Cooling Water Conservation (Room S402A)
Receive actionable project ideas on how to reduce the water and energy consumption of your plant. Learn the latest system assessment techniques from world-class auditors. Learn technology deployment strategies from leaders of associations like the Compressed Air & Gas Institute. Meet experts who can answer questions regarding system automation, measurement and monitoring to verify energy savings. Receive 8 PDH credits.
TRACK 2: On-Site Utility Reliability, Safety and Quality (Room S402B)
Learn techniques to improve production up-time with high-quality and reliable on-site utilities. Discuss the establishment of compressed air specifications and compliance verification for the safe production of food, beverage and drug products – and to reduce production spoilage/reject rates. Receive maintenance checklists and training to maintain required pressures and flows. Learn technology deployment strategies from leaders of associations like the Cooling Technology Institute. Receive 9 PDH credits.
TRACK 1: On-Site Utility Sustainability: Energy & Cooling Water Conservation (Room S402A)
Monday, October 23rd
8:00 am – 10:00 am Opening Session
10:00 am – 10:15 am Coffee Break Sponsored by Bobcat
10:00 am – 5:00 pm EXPO Floor Open
10:15 am – 12:15 pm Session #1: CAGI Education Seminar – Case Studies in Maximizing Compressed Air Efficiency
Chair: Chad Larrabee, Product Management Leader, Oil Free Compressors, Ingersoll Rand
- Compressed Air as a Utility and Centralizing a System
Neil Mehltretter, Technical Director, Kaeser Compressors
Case Study #1 Compressed Air as a Utility: a 20-year-old compressed air system installed in a small, confined space experienced ongoing service-related issues. The system comprised of three 75 hp water-cooled air compressors with one heated desiccant dryer. A compressed air system assessment was performed to determine existing demand, find a more suitable space for the equipment, provide redundancy, increase reliability and reduce carbon footprint. He will share the solutions implemented including an external enclosure, utility contract, plus new VFD and air-cooled compressors.
Case Study #2 Consolidating into One Centralized Compressed Air System: an expanding multi-plant campus experienced reliability and maintenance problems with its aging compressed air systems installed in multiple locations throughout the plant. With multiple compressed air applications throughout each plant, a system assessment found the optimal solutions to be consolidation into a reliable, centralized compressed air station with one master controller. These findings will be presented in detail, as well as the implemented solutions consisting of four 100 hp air compressors with internal refrigerated dryers. Solutions for inadequate installation space and ventilation will also be shared.
As Technical Director, Neil Mehltretter oversees Kaeser’s Technical Department with responsibilities including product management and system design. An authority on compressed air assessments, Neil has conducted and supervised thousands of industrial compressed air studies, helping users achieve significant energy savings and operational improvements. Neil has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from The University of Florida and holds several industry certifications.
- Calculating the Impact of Artificial Demand and Pneumatic Cylinders
Mark Krisa, Strategic Account Manager, Ingersoll Rand
Case Study #1 Artificial Demand – Getting to the Real Numbers: Artificial Demand is often estimated incorrectly, even with theoretical calculations. In this case study, for a specific compressed air system operating at steady state, we’ll compare empirical data and analysis to theoretical calculations of artificial demand. The discussion will include sources of error and considerations when calculating energy savings and the impact of changes to system pressure. The margin of error can be surprising.
Case Study #2 Pneumatic Air Cylinders – A Simple User of Air with Big Implications: Pneumatic air cylinders are prolific in industry but can be misunderstood when evaluating their impact on the compressed air system. In this study, the theoretical calculations for a simple air cylinder will be reviewed and common errors identified. A high-speed pressure time plot for an air cylinder will be presented to illustrate a practical example of what occurs in a cylinder and considerations for corrective actions and performance.
Mark is Strategic Account Manager at Ingersoll Rand. A graduate with a degree in engineering science from the University of Western Ontario in Canada, Mark has worked in the compressed air industry for over 30 years. His experience in the industry is diverse ranging from compressor service technician through engineering, compressed air system auditor and product management. Mark has authored several papers and is a project member with CAGI, ISO and CSA.
- Dryer Purge Air and Tuning Heat of Compression Dryers
Jarett Lieser, AIRScan Audit Specialist, Atlas Copco Compressors
Case Study #1 Purge Air from Compressed Air Dryers: Dryer Purge Air can be a huge user of compressed air. In this study we will look at how much Purge Air can affect the compressor room and the total electrical cost. We will look at the customer compressor room layout, the total usage of compressed air and total Purge Air, what recommendations were made to the compressed air user and what improvements were made.
Case Study #2 Heat of Compression Dryer: oversized compressors with heat of compression dryers – in this study we will look at how much compressed air the customer needs versus how much they can make. Customer also needs -40°F dew point with a heat of compression dryer and what is done to hit this dew point. We will look at the customer compressor room layout, recommendations and improvements made for the compressed air user.
Jarett is a graduate from Alexandria Technical College with a degree in fluid power. For many years, he worked primarily in the maintenance field before transitioning into the compressed air field. He has worked as a technician, in sales support roles, tech support roles, as a product specialist, and now serves as a compressed air auditor for Atlas Copco.
- Compressed Air Purity Requirements for Plant and Process Air
Ryan Remington, National Sales Manager, Pneumatic Products, Hankison
Case Study #1 Plant Air Purity Requirements – Solving the Dehydration and Filtration Equation: Plant Air is a common term, but what does it mean when it comes to air purity? This first case study reviews the application of plant air and what levels of dehydration and filtration are required for the end use of a typical general industrial manufacturer. Discussion will include the types of air treatment technology required for the varying dehydration and filtration requirements.
Case Study #2 Process Air Purity Requirements – Assessing the Risk and Delivering the Quality: When compressed air becomes an ingredient in the process, the purity requirements increase as does the risk. This case study reviews the application of high purity users such as pharmaceutical and semiconductor. Discussion will include design best practices for Process Air applications and selection of the right air treatment technology to meet stringent air quality requirements.
Ryan Remington graduated from the University of Florida – Gainesville- with an electrical engineering degree before joining Pneumatic Products Corporation (PPC). With PPC, Ryan specializes in engineered compressed air drying and filtering equipment. Now operating as National Sales Manager for PPC, Ryan works closely with channel partners and end users to develop both standard and specialized air purification solutions for compressed air users across the globe.
12:15 – 1:45 pm Women in Compressed Air, Vacuum & Cooling Networking Group Luncheon Sponsored by Ingersoll Rand & Quincy Compressor
1:00 – 4:00 pm New Technology EXPO Classroom – EXPO Floor
2:00 – 3:30 pm Compressed Air & Gas Institute (CAGI) Certified Compressed Air System Specialist (CCASS) Exam
4:30 – 5:00 pm Treasure Hunt Raffle
6:00 – 9:00 pm Catered Networking Event at VU Rooftop, on the 22nd Floor of the Hilton Tri-Plex (123 E. Cermak) Host Hotel. Sponsored by BEKO Technologies, Sullair, Mikropor and Aggreko
Tuesday, October 24th
8:00 am – 10:00 am Plenary Session
10:00 am – 5:00 pm EXPO Floor Open
10:15 am – 12:25 pm Session #2: Big-Impact Energy & Water Conservation Projects in Compressed Air and Cooling Water Systems
Chair: James Bristow, North American Sales Manager, Hanwha Power Systems
- Centrifugal Air Compressor Cooling Water Mitigation
James Bristow, North American Sales Manager, Hanwha Power Systems
Compressed air temperature management is crucial to efficient and stable operation of all air compressors. This becomes amplified in the typical 3 stage integrally geared centrifugal air compressors used in plants across the US. Interstage cooling is integral to a properly running air system, and I will discuss ways to cool the compressed air without the need for regular water supply. I will look at both open and closed loop cooling systems.
After graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Mechanical Engineering Degree from the University of California, I started my career as a project engineer for Kobelco working on their oil flooded and dry screw compressors. From there, I ended up in centrifugal sales for the last decade, where I finally settled as Hanwha Power Systems North American Sales manager. I have quoted both standard industrial compressors and the large spec driven engineered compressors, selling both small (for centrifugals) to large compressors, in both the Asian and American market.
- Energy Efficient Compressed Air Drying for “Air Over the Fence” Applications
Chuck Henderson, Vice President, Henderson Engineering
Buying compressed air over the fence has a become a major opportunity for many companies to reduce capital investment while also reducing maintenance costs. There are a variety of options available for this application, some are dramatically better than others. We will explore the choices available and help determine which systems work best.
Chuck has served at Henderson Engineering for 50 years, is the owner of multiple patents for dehydration technology and has published numerous articles about compressed air purification.
- Hybrid Instrument Air Dryer System Technology Deployment
Abdulaziz Dulaijan, Senior Engineer, Saudi Aramco
Instrument air dryers, often the single largest air consumer in industrial plants, create a significant concern in terms of energy consumption, instrument air availability, and security of air supply. Most industrial plants in Saudi Arabia use heatless desiccant dryers that require a lot of energy in the form of compressed air. Additionally, frequent valve switching on such dryers (every five minutes) compromises plant reliability, resulting in unpredicted failures. Hybrid air dryers can achieve maximum savings with heated desiccant dryers, where valve switching is extended to 24 hours, resulting in major energy and maintenance savings in addition to ensuring reliable, and high-quality air delivery. Approximately 20 MW of energy could be saved if hybrid dryers are implemented in all company plants, possibly extending to over 50 MW. The payback for hybrid dryer retrofitting is usually between 1-2 years which supports implementation from a financial point of view.
I have 28 years of Water, Oil and Gas industry experience in process systems and rotating equipment engineering, design and troubleshooting. I have engineering experience in compressed air systems, cooling water systems, pump station optimization/design and testing experience in large diameter pipelines and process piping systems. Also, understanding of a variety of international engineering codes/standards and best practices including Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards, ASME ANSI, API, NFPA, and a variety of AWWA standards. I’m a Certified Energy Manager, and ISO 50001 Energy System Auditor. I’m currently working with Saudi Aramco in the Energy Systems Division.
- Demand Side Design Effects on VSD Air Compressor Efficiency
Josh Wamser, President, Industrial Compressor Solutions
Installing a VSD in our compressor room IS an efficient way to react to plant demand. Unless we are using compressed air as a byproduct only, our most efficient solutions come from the demand side instead. Moreover, a VSD will actually aid in hiding plant inefficiency directly opposing our intentions and design. I will show how to take control of the demand side of the system before addressing the compressor room.
I am the owner of 3 companies in the compressed air industry. I spend the majority of my free time auditing plants and training. I’m an OSHA-30 certified NASCLA General Contractor, Construction/ Project Manager, Commercial Plumber, and Mechanical Contractor. I’m a Veteran of both the Navy (MMN) and the Marines (infantry). I am also a proud husband and father.
10:15 am – 12:15 pm Compressed Air Challenge Level 1 Workshop: Fundamentals of Compressed Air Systems (Part 1)
1:00 – 4:00 pm New Technology EXPO Classroom – EXPO Floor
2:00 – 4:00 pm Compressed Air Challenge Level 1 Workshop: Fundamentals of Compressed Air Systems (Part 2)
2:00 – 3:30 pm Compressed Air & Gas Institute (CAGI) Certified Compressed Air System Specialist (CCASS) Exam
4:30 – 5:00 pm Treasure Hunt Raffle
Wednesday, October 25th
8:00 am – 10:00 am Session #3: Cooling Water and Compressed Air Demand Reduction Strategies
Chair: Jon Jensen, Energy Efficiency Manager, SMC Corporation of America
- Sustainable Development Goals: Energy Efficiency in Pneumatic Systems
Jon Jensen, Energy Efficiency Manager, SMC Corporation of America
We will consider the benefits of energy conservation in regard to “Sustainable Development Goals” from topology optimized design to low-cost/no-cost applications where energy conservation in pneumatic systems can be applied. The applications reviewed will benefit plant managers, design engineers and maintenance personnel who have the responsibility to reduce the costs and environmental impact of compressed air use in their facility. The topics covered are also applicable to designers of pneumatic equipment.
Jon Jensen is the Energy Efficiency Manager for SMC Corporation of America. He provides consulting services on energy conservation in pneumatic systems. He is also a Certified Machinery Safety Expert (TUV NORD) and manages machinery safety products for SMC Corporation of America. He is a past president of the International Fluid Power Society, an Accredited Instructor, and holds Pneumatic Specialist and Electronic Controls Specialist Certifications. Prior to managing the Energy Conservation Team, Jon served for nearly 10 years as SMC’s North American Training Manager.
- Most Chillers Are Operating Above Their Design Efficiency!
Dan Mizesko, President, Dalkia U.S. Chiller Services
I will present on the benefits of re-retrocommissioning chilled water plant liquid chillers. The evidence is clear, most chillers and chilled water plants operate above their intended design efficiency (kW per Ton). Most chillers operate above efficiency design 20%, 25%, 30%, and even higher. I have seen chillers operating 60% above their kW per ton design. Most equipment operators and owners do not even realize their equipment is operating inefficiently and consuming excessive power. Just because you are performing the maintenance as per the OEM manual does not mean your chiller is running efficiently. It takes substantially more than the recommended maintenance procedures to ensure your chillers operate as efficiently as possible. Our presentation will lay out the case that proves this. We will present re-retrocommissioning procedures as well as examples of successful re-retrocommissioning and the savings achieved in the Gulf Region (Dubai and Qatar) as well as New York.
Dan is the President of Dalkia U.S. Chiller Services. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Air- Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineering Technology, has completed a 5-year UA Training program for Field Service Chiller Engineers in the USA, is a New York City Licensed Operating Engineer and is a Graduate of Babson University’s Mechanical Contractors of America Advanced Leadership Institute. Dan has over 45 years of “Hands On” extensive experience in the HVAC industry on a wide variety of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment utilized in high rise buildings and industrial facilities throughout the United States, Middle East, Mexico, Latin America, Africa and the Caribbean. Dan has held management positions for Carrier Corporation, Honeywell, Siemens Building Technologies, Bechtel Construction, U.S. Dept. of Energy, Gannett Publishing and is currently President of all Dalkia U.S. Chiller Services operations in the USA, UAE, Bahrain, KSA and Qatar. Dan is an industry recognized expert on Large Tonnage Liquid Chillers and Industrial District Cooling plants.
- Water Consumption and Environmental Impact: How to Reduce Water Usage While Maintaining Production Goals
Rebecca Moore, Strategic Account Manager, Aggreko
In this non-promotional presentation, we will share case studies of applied technology solutions to address water conservation concerns for the pulp and paper industry. And will also discuss ways that your facility can reduce water consumption while maintaining production goals and meeting ESG targets – and without CAPEX.
Rebecca Moore is a national large enterprise accounts manager specializing in manufacturing for Aggreko, a global temporary power, heating and cooling company. Rebecca is an expert at managing corporate relationships and ensuring clients have reliable and cost-effective solutions to boost profits and productivity.
- Next-Level Food-Industry Automation Using Edge Computing on Pneumatics
Tom Taranto, Owner, Data Power Services
Using edge computing to establish the operating envelope for critical control points (CCPs) and key process indicators (KPIs) necessary to validate operation of pneumatically power equipment. Expanding capability of machine controls allows monitoring compliance verification to improve production up time improving both reliability and safety. Learn how edge computing techniques are applied to define process major factors (PMFs) and apply operating limits for process control. Once identified, CCPs and KPIs are used to establish air specifications and to set operating limits at the machine controls to confirm process compliance.
Tom Taranto, President of Data Power Services, LLC is an independent fluid power system professional with more than 45 years of experience. He has extensive experience in design and application of fluid power systems both hydraulic and pneumatic. Compressed Air Challenge (CAC) qualified instructor, and instructor for Qualified AIRMaster+ Specialist training. Tom is Chair and team member for ASME Standard EA-4-2010 “Assessment for Compressed Air Systems”. Tom has authored compressed air articles, and peer reviewed conference proceedings. He is published both nationally as contributor to Encyclopedia of Energy Engineering and Technology, Taylor & Francis Group; and internationally as UNIDO Compressed Air Expert co-author and co-trainer for UNIDO Motor System Energy Conservation Program.
8:00 am – 12:00 pm Compressed Air Challenge Level 1 Workshop: Fundamentals of Compressed Air Systems (Part 3)
8:30 – 10:00 am Compressed Air & Gas Institute (CAGI) Certified Compressed Air System Specialist (CCASS) Exam
10:00 am – 5:00 pm EXPO Floor Open
10:15 am – 12:15 pm Session #4: Advanced Compressed Air Energy Efficiency Measures
Chair: Tim Dugan, President, Compression Engineering Corporation
- Compressed Air System Measurement and Data-Collection in all Project Phases
Tim Dugan, President, Compression Engineering Corporation
This presentation will focus on engineering and measurement in the air compressor room, focusing on instrumentation and data-collection methods for energy plus thermal, at the various project phases.
Tim Dugan has 22 years of independent industrial compressed air systems consulting and 13 of OEM design. He is known for robust, full system mechanical and automation design for complex, large compressed air systems. He also sets the standard for rigorous energy savings and reliability modeling and integration of all aspects of a complex compressed air project, including concept, controls, monitoring, mechanical systems, and commissioning. His firm is 100% independent from compressor OEMs.
- Keeping Energy Improvement Projects on Track with Measurement
Pascal van Putten, CEO, VPInstruments
How do you know if you are taking the right measurements in your performance improvement project? In this presentation, Pascal van Putten will show how a 4-in-1 flow meter will provide a baseline for your system’s performance, allowing you to continuously check if you’re on the right. A single flow meter can be a real eye-opener and already have a major impact on your energy savings project. By taking a step-by-step approach, you can achieve and maintain energy savings. User case examples, including from the food & beverage industry, will be shared to illustrate the real-world benefits of utilizing a flow meter.
Pascal van Putten, CEO and founder of VPInstruments studied Mechanical Engineering at Delft University of Technology. Pascal founded VPInstruments in 1999. VPInstruments offers industrial clients Energy Management solutions for compressed air, technical gases as well as other utilities. Pascal has 25 years of experience in flow measurement, compressed air monitoring and industrial energy management. Pascal lives in Delft together with his wife and three daughters.
- Compressed Air Demand: The Final Frontier
Paul Edwards, Principal, Compressed Air Consultants
Paul Edwards walks through several applications to show both the value and the difficulty of doing demand side work. Eliminating or reducing the air consumption at the point of use can have a leveraged impact on the entire air system – supply, distribution and demand which translates to money. Done well, the value brought to the plant’s bottom line can be significant. But demand side work is messy. Reality and theory often collide and if done poorly, it can increase costs, create product quality defects and banish your company from the customer. The presentation will provide multiple examples of applications and potential solutions and the challenges in determining the best path. It also shows how some rules of thumb and copy/paste engineering can be hazardous to everyone’s bottom line.
Paul earned a BSME from the University of Virginia, and has been in the business for 41 years. He spent 22 years with Ingersoll Rand and held positions as an application engineer, field sales engineer, global product manager for rotary screw compressors, North American Marketing manager as well as starting up the audit business for IR (with Gary Shafer). He started an independent audit organization, Compressed Air Consultants, Inc twenty years ago and 80% of his work has been in demand side improvements. CAC has done audits in over 30 countries in industries such as offshore platforms, petrochemical facilities, cement and lime, paper, corrugated, power plants, food and beverage, electronics, steel, iron, underground coal, aerospace, corn processing, chemicals, plastics, etc.
- Compressed Air Leak Detection: Acoustic Cameras vs Traditional Leak Detectors
Brian Kavanagh, Sales Director, Sonotec
With the advent of acoustic cameras, ultrasonic leak detection has never been easier. However, are acoustic cameras a complete replacement of the more traditional ultrasonic leak detectors available in the market? When considering factors such as the leak rate algorithm and environments with significant amount of extraneous noise, sometimes the traditional technology can work better. In this presentation, we will do a deep dive on the pros and cons of each type of equipment and discuss where each one excels.
Brian Kavanagh is the sales director for SONOTEC’s North and South American markets, based out of Long Island, New York. He is heavily involved in the predictive maintenance industry, particularly when it comes to ultrasound technology.
1:00 – 4:00 pm New Technology EXPO Classroom – EXPO Floor
2:00 – 3:30pm Compressed Air & Gas Institute (CAGI) Certified Compressed Air System Specialist (CCASS) Exam
TRACK 2: On-Site Utility Reliability, Safety and Quality (Room S402B)
Monday, October 23rd
8:00 am – 10:00 am Opening Session
10:00 am – 10:15 am Coffee Break Sponsored by Bobcat
10:00 am – 5:00 pm EXPO Floor Open
10:15 am – 12:15 pm Session #1: Advanced Cooling Water System Design for Reliability and Performance
Chair: Clayton Penhallegon Jr., Principal, Integrated Services Group
- Mystery of Industrial Chiller Failures Solved, With Creative Testing
Brian Justice, Director of Sales, Hudson Technologies
A large mid-west based university had chillers that were experiencing repetitive shaft seal failures which was costly and created significant downtime. The standard diagnostic analysis of vibration tests, oil analysis, acid tests, and refrigerant quality was performed but no root cause was determined. After reviewing targeted oil samples, the presence of copper chloride was found, which was perplexing to the team trying to find a solution to the operating issues. Unexpectedly the root cause of the problem stemmed from high salinity in the local water supply, leading to the generation of copper chloride. Leveraging specialized equipment, the system was flushed, dehydrated, and cleansed to remove the source causing the copper chloride formation. This problem may be more common than known and could be affecting the reliability of chillers while not being detected through traditional analysis today.
Brian Justice is the Director of Sales for Hudson Technologies, where he leads a team of account managers responsible for the sales of R-Sides services and the sales and buyback of refrigerants. He is a LEED AP and has an MBA and a Bachelor of Science in both Mechanical Engineering and Physics. He started his 31-year career in HVAC system design and applications and has worked for companies such as Carrier, AAON, Lennox, and Armstrong. Brian is active in many HVAC organizations and is currently an ASHRAE Regional Vice Chair for Region IV and on Atlanta’s Board of Governors.
- Central Utility Plant (CUP) Promises Reliability, Reduced Capital Cost, and Energy Savings
Suzan Sun-Yuan, PE, CDT, LEED AP, Technical Authority – Mechanical, ESD Consulting Engineers/Stantec
Through successfully applied CUP design achievements recognized by ASHRAE, Sun-Yuan will present main CUP chilled water system components for large commercial facilities, distribution configurations, load reaction, system deliverability, CUP equipment sizing strategies, and reliable CUP operation. For any complex facility, a CUP can present a complicated set of variables at any stage. Understanding these systems and strategies is key to applying standardized design and engineering practices to develop reliable chilled water systems and better facilities.
Suzan Sun-Yuan is a licensed Professional Engineer in AZ, CA, CO, IL, IN, NC, NV, OH, TX, and WI, pending in NY and VA; a Construction Documents Technologist (CDT), and a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP). Sun-Yuan is also a voting member of the ASHRAE Technical Committee (TC 9.12).
- Cooling Towers/Well Water Isolation with a Liquid-to-Liquid System to Protect the Compressors
Michael Wlodarski, Regional Sales Manager, HydroThrift Corporation
Many times, non closed loop cooling systems, such as open cooling towers, well water or river water, can foul the heat load they are intended to cool. A liquid-to-liquid cooling system can take advantage of this low-cost cooling source and also protect the heat load from fouling and scaling.
Mike Wlodarski has been in the heat transfer and cooling system industry for over 30 years.
- Cooling System Control Designs for High Efficiency and Reliability
Clayton Penhallengon Jr., Principal, Integrated Services Group
Clayton Penhallegon Jr. will cover high efficiency features, special climate adaptations, particular integration characteristics for application with specific other components, full load and IPLV / NPLV efficiency differences between designs, etc. He will define first introductory level selection-based efficiency differences and preview next-level operational strategy efficiency improvements.
Mr. Penhallegon is the managing member of Integrated Services Group, which provides process cooling water system operational effectiveness and cost reduction consulting services and project implementation for manufacturing facilities. Penhallegon has worked for nearly 30 years with various industries including plastics, paper, wood products, metal containers, textiles, and others performing a broad range of activities spanning efficiency measure identification, capital appropriation assistance, system design and project implementation oversight, controls integration and start-up, and utility rebate documentation and verification. He holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech, an MBA from Georgia State University, and is a registered PE in Georgia.
12:15 – 1:45 pm Women in Compressed Air, Vacuum & Cooling Networking Group Luncheon Sponsored by Ingersoll Rand & Quincy Compressor
1:00 – 4:00 pm New Technology EXPO Classroom – EXPO Floor
2:00 – 3:30 pm Compressed Air & Gas Institute (CAGI) Certified Compressed Air System Specialist (CCASS) Exam
4:30 – 5:00 pm Treasure Hunt Raffle
6:00 – 9:00 pm Catered Networking Event at VU Rooftop, on the 22nd Floor of the Hilton Tri-Plex (123 E. Cermak) Host Hotel. Sponsored by BEKO Technologies, Sullair, Mikropor and Aggreko
Tuesday, October 24th
8:00 am – 10:00 am Plenary Session
10:00 am – 5:00 pm EXPO Floor Open
10:15 am – 2:00 pm Session #2: CTI Seminar: Fundamentals of Cooling Towers, Adiabatic Fluid Coolers & Water Treatment
- Fundamentals of Cooling Towers
Mark Pfeifer, Manager, Technical Services, SPX Cooling Tech
Like to know more about cooling towers? Cooling Tower Fundamentals will provide an overview of cooling tower technology and application. Topics to be covered include common cooling tower terms, how cooling towers work, the most common configurations in use today, and key design considerations for successfully applying cooling towers on both HVAC and light industrial systems.
Mark holds a BSME in Mechanical Engineering from Kansas State University, is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Kansas and is a LEED accredited professional. His cooling tower career spans over 30 years in various roles including materials engineering, proposal management and applications engineering. In his recent role Mark manages the Technical Services department providing technical support for sales representatives and customers. Mark is currently secretary of ASHRAE’s Technical Committee for Cooling Towers and Evaporative Condensers (TC8.6) and a member of USGBC. Mark Pfeifer has done numerous presentations to engineers, architects and contractors on the subject of cooling towers and their application to HVAC and Industrial projects.
- Fundamentals of Adiabatic Fluid Coolers
Andrew Sickler, Industrial Business Development Manager, Baltimore Aircoil Company
Adiabatic heat rejection has become more widely available, saving energy and water without the need for water treatment. Engineers and owners are now challenged with comparing the benefits and tradeoffs of air-cooled, water-cooled, and adiabatic systems. After attending this seminar, you will know how to compare different cooling systems, when adiabatic units are right for your projects, and the different types of adiabatic coolers and condensers available.
Andrew Sickler, Industrial Business Development Manager, Baltimore Aircoil Company has seen many facets of mechanical systems in his career. He has held various positions including service technician (while finishing his engineering degree), service manager, construction project management, and project engineering. This background shapes his approach and allows him to deliver his clients thoughtful and responsible solutions to their engineering and design challenges.
12:15 – 1:00 pm BREAK
- Fundamentals of Water Treatment
Jon Cohen, Digital Innovation Fellow, Buckman Chemical
Would you like to know more about cooling tower water treatment? This session will provide an overview of the basics of water treatment for evaporative heat rejection equipment, including open and closed circuit cooling towers as well as evaporative condensers. Topics include common water treatment terms, methods for control of scale, corrosion, and biological contamination, water management plans, and best practices for minimizing water use while maximizing system efficiency.
Jon has been involved in water treatment for over 30 years, covering laboratory, R&D, Sales, Equipment, technical consulting, and management. He has been the Technical Director for regional water treatment companies and led large teams in biocides and equipment for a larger company. He is an active participant in trade organizations, serving as a past BOD member at the CTI and participating in the drafting and subsequent adoption of numerous standards and guidelines, including ASHRAE/ANSI 188. Jon holds a Bachelors degree in Biology, Masters in Chemical Engineering, and an MBA. He is also accredited with LEED AP. Jon is currently a Digital Innovation Fellow at Buckman Chemical. Jon lives in Naperville, IL with his wife, daughter and three dogs. He loves to travel with his family and play golf and tennis. Jon is also active in Leadership and mentoring programs through Sigma Chi and Northern Illinois University.
10:15 am – 12:15 pm Compressed Air Challenge Level 1 Workshop: Fundamentals of Compressed Air Systems (Part 1)
1:00 – 4:00 pm New Technology EXPO Classroom – EXPO Floor
2:00 – 4:00 pm Compressed Air Challenge Level 1 Workshop: Fundamentals of Compressed Air Systems (Part 2)
2:00 – 3:30 pm Compressed Air & Gas Institute (CAGI) Certified Compressed Air System Specialist (CCASS) Exam
4:30 – 5:00 pm Treasure Hunt Raffle
Wednesday, October 25th
8:00 am – 10:00 am Session #3: Food Production Quality & Safety: Removing Moisture, Oil, and Microorganisms from Compressed Air & Vacuum Systems
Chair: Leslie Marshall, National Account Manager, Atlas Copco Compressors
- The Best Way to Remove Moisture from the Compressed Air System
Leslie Marshall, National Account Manager, Atlas Copco Compressors
Moisture can be the ultimate enemy of compressed air and the equipment which it flows through. Advances in technology means that there are more ways than ever to combat it – that’s the good news. The challenge is that users should consider many factors when choosing the correct dryer for their needs. This presentation will cover sizing requirements, the difference between dew point and pressure dew point, and other key factors which can significantly impact performance. Real-life case studies will be used to demonstrate all the points raised.
Leslie Marshall is a vastly experienced manufacturing engineer who specializes in improving plant efficiency, at scale, across multiple locations. Having worked previously at General Mills, she now works nationally for Atlas Copco compressors, helping customers identify their challenges, design programs, and ultimately increase efficiency.
- From Fresh to Soggy – Quality Monitoring: How Compressed Air Condensate Affects Food Quality
Simon Gleissner, Managing Director, SUTO iTEC
This presentation is aimed at professionals in the food processing and manufacturing industries, as well as their compressed air service providers. It will provide valuable insight into the important role of compressed air in maintaining food quality. During the session we will explore the basic concepts of dew point and humidity sensors, which are essential tools for the monitoring and control of humidity levels in compressed air systems (CAS). You will gain understanding of how moisture is introduced into the compressed air system and the potential impact it can have.
Simon has a decade of experience in measurement technology for compressed air and gases. He is the Product Manager for in-house software developments, as well as Product Manager for Air Quality and Purity Measurement tools. Besides that, Simon is responsible for the German operations of SUTO iTEC, acting as Managing Director since 2019.
- Ensuring Vacuum Quality in Food Packaging and Freeze Drying
Bryan A. Jensen, Engineered System Solutions Manager, Rogers Machinery Company
Vacuum Quality: Analysis of a Freeze-Drying vacuum system, considering system subcomponents, including the ramifications of the refrigeration/ammonia system on the vacuum system performance, as well as a review of control and variable gas (often Helium) conditions at the vacuum pump. There are lessons to be learned for all food, and other manufacturers for that matter, even if the population attendance of freeze dryers specifically is low.
Bryan is a mechanical & aeronautical engineer with over 20 years of application experience in a wide variety of industrial & chemical manufacturing processes, focusing on the compressed air & gas industry. He grew up in Alaska, trained in the Mid-West and started his career as a NASA materials research engineer in the Deep South before returning to the Pacific NW. He currently heads the Engineered System Solutions team for Rogers Machinery Company, based in Portland, Oregon.
- Process and Sterile Filtration – Key to Minimizing Contamination and Protecting Brand Reputation
Michael Lewis, Business Development Manager, Atlas Copco Compressors
Lewis will present how to evaluate a compressed air systems to produce sterile air for aseptic environments by looking at the current system needs whilst avoiding the pitfalls of incorrect filtration and the negative effects that can have.
Michael Lewis is a Mechanical Engineer with an extensive background in Process Filtration developed over the past 20 years. He currently serves as a Business Development Manager – Process Filtration with Atlas Copco, working with food, beverage, pharmaceutical and semiconductor customers.
8:00 am – 12:00 pm Compressed Air Challenge Level 1 Workshop: Fundamentals of Compressed Air Systems (Part 3)
8:30 – 10:00 am Compressed Air & Gas Institute (CAGI) Certified Compressed Air System Specialist (CCASS) Exam
10:00 am – 5:00 pm EXPO Floor Open
10:15 am – 12:15 pm Session #4 Maintenance & Food Hygiene Collaboration for SQF-Compliant Compressed Air Quality
Chair: Keynan Lewton, Air Compressor Maintenance Specialist, Fluid-Aire Dynamics
- Verifying Compressed Air Purity Compliance with SQF and BRC Food Safety & Quality Requirements System
Maria Sandoval, Laboratory Director, Trace Analytics
Compressed air quality standards and regulations are often vague and can leave end-users feeling confused. This discussion will help attendees understand which standards apply to compressed air systems and how to use them to build a monitoring plan for manufacturing facilities. Gain an understanding of ISO 8573 and learn more about what SQF, BRC, Primus, and FDA say about compressed air quality. Find out about which contaminants to test for and how to meet existing requirements to ensure adequate compressed air quality.
Maria Sandoval has over 15 years of experience in Microbiology and Molecular Biology. Her tenure with Trace Analytics, LLC has led to her becoming the preliminary draft project leader for the ISO 8573-7 technical committee. As the Lab Director at Trace she focuses on research and development, methodology improvements, accreditation compliance and personnel development.
- Compressed Air and Cooling Water Systems: The Forgotten Additives/Ingredients in Dairy Products
Alex O’Brien – CGA, Food Safety / Quality Coordinator, Center for Dairy Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Compressed air and cooling water are the forgotten ingredients in food and beverage products. O’Brien will share anecdotes and practical approaches to food manufacturing safety compliance, preventive maintenance and environmental monitoring. He will share knowledge on H1, H2 and H3 food-grade lubricants, and which are acceptable for incidental contact. To bridge the gap in maintenance- and quality-focused testing philosophies, stakeholders must understand the importance of testing for root causes of contamination, rather than simply testing for compliance. From small artisan cheese makers to large manufacturers, O’Brien will share practical approaches to prevent food contamination through compressed air and cooling water.
Alex O’Brien is the Dairy Safety & Quality Coordinator at the Center for Dairy Research. O’Brien assists dairy plants with food safety and quality issues, food safety plans, root cause analysis and performs third party audits. Alex has worked in the food industry for the past 6 years, serving as a quality assurance supervisor and quality assurance manager. He has worked at Kerry Ingredients and Maple Leaf Cheese Company. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2014 with a Food Science degree. Alex is a Wisconsin native with long family ties to the dairy industry. His grandparents and parents previously dairy farmed in east-central Wisconsin and his in-laws are dairy farmers.
- Microbiological Issues in Food & Beverage Compressed & High Risk Ambient Air Systems
Charles Giambrone, Food Safety Programs Coordinator, Rochester Midland Corp.
We encounter microbial contaminants in both compressed air, and high risk ambient air handling systems via 3 mechanisms. They include Biofilm residues via sloughing, Aerosolized Water droplets, and Microbial Spores. All three mechanisms are found in a variety of microbial ecosystems in a facility’s compressed air and high-risk ambient air in RTE processes.
In order to ascertain the root cause of the air contaminants’ sources/origin we need to first decide: A.) the Regulatory, and technical standards/requirements, and B.) Methodology, and accuracy of the air sampling method[s] employed. A discussion of the current state of ISO standards along with the discussed GFSI standards, FSMA statements, and 3A standards. This will include a review of the currently utilized air sampling technologies’ pros & cons.
After the quantitative data is analyzed, then we will discuss how the data is employed to assist in root cause analysis in order to determine the microbial contaminant vectors in either compressed air or high-risk ambient air, or both. Then, a close examination of the successful Preventive Maintenance measures [sanitation & hygienic design] as well as most effective treatment methods for both compressed air and high-risk ambient air handling systems.
Charles Giambrone has been involved in Sanitation, Hygienic Design, and Food Safety for over 40 years. Trained as an applied microbiologist, working both in the regulatory, and private sectors as we QA manager has given him a unique level of expertise. Also by working in specialty chemical companies providing food and beverage plants with sanitation-hygiene proactive solutions enabled him to both conduct applied research, training and improvements in science based Sanitation technologies. This culminated with him being bestowed by International Association of Food Protection prestigious Sanitarian Award in 2022.
- Preventative vs. Proactive Compressed Air System Maintenance for Consistency and Quality
Keynan Lewton, Air Compressor Maintenance Specialist, Fluid-Aire Dynamics