United Performance Metals has taken steps to run a more energy efficient facility. The company’s latest green installment includes Super Ceiling Sensors from RAB Lighting Products. The sensors were installed in the restrooms throughout the company’s plant and office areas. Sensors turn on lights automatically, and they stay off when the restrooms are not in use.
Last year, UPM’s energy saving upgrades included the installation of several 16 foot Diameter Isis® commercial ceiling fans in their plant. These Big Ass Fans® provide summer cooling and winter heat destratification. In the winter, the fans are slowed to efficiently moving large volumes of warm air off the ceiling. During the summer months, the fans run quickly to create a work environment that feels up to 10 degrees cooler.
In 2010, the company installed T8 High Intensity lighting with High Bay Occupancy Sensor lenses in their warehouse sheet bays. Lights automatically turn on as plant employees drive a side loader forklift truck through the sheet aisles. All other times, the lights are off.
Plant Manager, Roger Haire was immediately pleased with the product. “Reduction in maintenance costs alone were obvious. The old bulbs were expensive and needed replacement often. The new lighting lasts much longer. The lighting color itself is much better. They turn on instantly, with no warm-up time. It was a smart move all around.”
The company has also been recycling office paper and metal scrap and will continue to look for more ways to decrease their global footprint in the immediate future.