Steam reimagined!
A closer look at the two model ranges
With production processes becoming increasingly complex, stricter emissions regulations and a growing need for energy efficiency, industrial steam generators are required to combine high performance with environmental responsibility. This article presents two different methods.
The manufacturer Certuss offers two product ranges for steam generation: the fully electric EMX and the fuel-fired UMX series. Both systems employ different technological approaches, but share a common goal: high efficiency, operational reliability and future-proofing in industrial steam generation. The fully electric EMX series is designed to combine sustainable technology with a compact design. A reduced footprint of up to 25 per cent is designed to facilitate easy integration – even in buildings with confined plant rooms (door width: 80 cm). At the same time, the modular structure allows for flexible scalability depending on steam requirements, with both single units and multiple cascades being feasible. The EMX series supports both stainless steel and carbon steel variants, tailored to the specific application. The generation of culinary steam is also possible; for this, stainless steel versions are used that meet the requirements of the food and beverage industry. The fuel-fired UMX series has been completely redesigned. It is designed for processes where process steam must be available quickly and reliably. It is designed for operation with natural gas (NG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or a combination of both fuels, making it flexible in terms of energy supply and security of supply. The heat-up time from a cold start is less than five minutes.
Stepless power control for efficient operation
Both the EMX and the UMX feature infinitely variable power adjustment, designed to ensure steam supply tailored to demand whilst optimising energy usage. Whilst the EMX’s electric power control is designed to provide an immediate response in continuous or partial load operation, the UMX series features fully modulating burner technology with a control ratio of 5:1. A speed-controlled combustion air fan and the standard combustion air preheating enable optimised fuel utilisation with reduced energy consumption without the need for additional insulation measures.
High integration density
A key feature of both product lines is the high level of integration straight from the factory. Certuss relies on the factory pre-assembly of key components, including a high-pressure water pump, a robust hot-water filter and an automated system comprising various control valves. The UMX series also features an integrated steam dryer for high steam quality. The EMX features a feed water tank. A water treatment module is available as an option. The compact design with a well-thought-out internal layout ensures that all maintenance points are easily accessible. The UMX also features an integrated chain hoist and a ladder to make maintenance work as efficient and safe as possible.
Modern control system
Both systems are equipped with a multilingual HMI system. Steam pressure is regulated automatically, whilst integrated diagnostic and monitoring functions ensure additional operational reliability. Customer support can be called upon via a remote service interface if required. Condition monitoring allows all operating parameters to be visualised locally in real time. The One View Control function enables the system status to be monitored – even from a distance within production areas. The standard automatic operation mode, Thermotimat (EMX) or Thermotimat Plus (UMX), allows automatic adaptation to different operating modes without the need for manual intervention.
Focus on sustainability
The EMX is fully electric and emits neither CO₂ nor pollutants – provided that the electricity is sourced from renewable energy sources. NOx emissions from the UMX series are below the legally required limits. This relatively low environmental impact is the result of a combination of intelligent burner technology, optimised air flow and precise control technology.
What about security?
The safety equipment complies with current standards and, in some cases, exceeds them. The systems are fitted with pressure limiters and switches, temperature limiters for steam and flue gas, as well as dry-run protection with automatic low-water shutdown. The UMX also features integrated position monitoring for the pneumatic control valves. Filtration systems for gas, combustion air and feed water ensure the consistent quality of the media used and protect the technical components from contamination and failure. The sensor system monitors the filtration systems and provides information via the touchscreen display regarding necessary cleaning.
Versatile
Both series are universally applicable and are suitable for various industries, including the food and beverage industry, the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors, and textile processing. Specifically for applications with high hygiene requirements – such as in the production of beverages – both series offer models made from food-grade materials and featuring steam of food-grade quality.
Two technologies, one philosophy
By combining a compact design, modular construction, intelligent control, high safety standards and efficiency, Certuss offers two systems – the EMX and UMX series – that are tailored to the requirements of modern industrial processes. The EMX is aimed in particular at companies focusing on energy self-sufficiency and electrified production. The UMX series is ideal for applications where rapid availability, flexible fuel utilisation and short response times are paramount.
