IChemE Education Subject Group - Resources

Process Utilities Cost Guide 2002

FOR EDUCATIONAL USE ONLY

Note: The following list represents common process costs, for use by staff and students in educational institutions for economic calculations. It is not intended for any other purpose. Having said the above, it is hoped that this table will be of use in giving students a rough but realistic idea of process costs, and will enable academics to give examples and projects which are at least plausible. I will be pleased to receive suggestions of additions and corrections from knowledgeable parties. This document is copyright the Institution of Chemical Engineers, but may be freely quoted and linked providing due acknowledgment is given.

1. Utilities

Mains water 50p / tonne
Cooling water 2.5p / tonne
Trade effluent 75p / tonne(average aqueous effluent suitable for discharge to sewers)
Demineralised water £1.00/ tonne
Steam (10 bar g) £6.50 / tonne
Steam (30 bar g) £9.00 / tonne
Compressed air 1.0p / m3

2. Other Process Costs

Labour cost £10 to £15/hour or £48,000 per year including overheads and supervision
Nitrogen 10p / m3
Natural gas 0.8 p / kWh
Electricity 5p / kWh
Fuel oil 0.8p/ kWh
Refrigeration 3p / kWh

3. More Detailed Cost Sources

Energy Information (US) cost of fuels and electricity
Yorkshire Water Charging Information (UK) mains and sewers
Steam Delivery costs (USA)

This page maintained by Martin Pitt, e-mail: M.J.Pitt@sheffield.ac.uk Last updated 8 January 2003

Return to: Education Subject Group Home Page Return to: Education Subject Group Resources Page