North West Galvanising (NWG), based in Derry~Londonderry, employs nine people and a number of casual workers. The company switched to natural gas in 2007 when natural gas became available in the area. Back then, firmus energy was the only natural gas option for the company but today, even with other suppliers available, the company remains with firmus.
Switchover to natural gas
Margaret Crawford from NWG, explains: “We have a great relationship with firmus and our account manager, Darren is always there when we need him. We previously used bottled gas and the switchover to natural gas was very straightforward.
Savings on fuel bills
“The firmus team were excellent at getting everything in place at the right time, they made everything run smoothly. Converting to natural gas saves us around 50% per annum on our fuel bills, which is a great reduction for any business.”
Natural gas powering business
NWG hot dips galvanize steel products to weatherproof them. This process offers unique protection, creating a coating of zinc and alloy, bonded to the steel. Galvanised steel has excellent resistance to mechanical damage during storage, transportation and assembly, lasting up to 40 years depending on atmospheric conditions.
Margaret continues: “Our main pot burners were converted to natural gas and the exhaust from these burners powers another process in the plant; this secondary process has a heat exchanger which in turn produces hot water and heating for the building, making our plant very fuel efficient.
Natural gas helping to meet green credentials
“Natural gas is also a great option for us as it helps us to adhere to strict legislative environmental guidelines. When planning NWG we set out to be the most environmentally friendly galvaniser in Northern Ireland. To do this we use the very latest technology and implementing breakthroughs in the chemical industry and using natural gas was always a part of that plan.”
forging strong relationships
Darren Young, key account manager for firmus energy, commented: “Natural gas is a great choice for businesses, particularly those using a lot of fuel, such as NWG. It is great to know that they are so pleased with our service and we look forward to strengthening our relationship and working with them in the future.”
