Independent tests show energy-saving for titanium water-heating elements
Energy savings of at least 6% have been demonstrated for titanium-sheathed water-heating elements by independent tests carried out for Titanium Products — in addition to the known lifetime benefits.
The tests were carried out by WatStech, the water science and technology group from the University of Wolverhampton.
The tests compared standard 3 kW heaters. One was of nickel alloy Superloy 825. The other was produced in an alloyed titanium to specification ASTM B338 Grade 2.
Their performance was compared using two identical 70 litre cylinders of synthetic hard water kept at a constant 56°C.
An initial 3-week period of constant running combined with hard-water drain down and top up was allowed for conditions to stabilise, followed by a 6-week period with both heaters monitored continuously.
The results indicated an energy saving of 6% in favour of the titanium element. Energy savings in practice could be higher. The tests were carried out over a relatively short period of time, and a continuous build-up of scale on the nickel-alloy element would add to its energy consumption.
