NAIMA Launches New Version of 3E Plus^® Insulation Thickness Computer Program

Alexandria, VA (January 7, 2002) - The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) has launched a new version of its 3E Plus^® insulation thickness computer program. 3E Plus now has the ability to translate energy losses into actual dollar amounts and calculates the number of pounds of greenhouse gases (CO₂, NO_x and Carbon Equivalent) being prevented from release into the atmosphere through reduced fuel consumption.

Engineers, plant managers and others can use this comprehensive energy management tool to calculate energy, environmental, and cost savings obtained through increased insulation thicknesses in the industrial and commercial sectors. 3E Plus will help to quickly and accurately determine where additional insulation can improve process efficiency of pipes, boilers, tanks and ducts. By calculating the potential energy and cost savings over time, users can gauge the return on investment for insulation upgrades. This information can be used to greatly increase energy efficiency, lower energy bills and reduce emissions of the greenhouse gases that cause global warming.

"The 3E Plus program is an incredibly useful tool," said Michele Jones, Vice President, Marketing and Operations at the National Insulation Association. "When this program is used as part of an overall insulation energy appraisal, it provides data showing the cost benefits of the existing insulation in industrial and commercial applications. Our members can then educate their customers by using 3E Plus to demonstrate additional savings possible through a more thoroughly insulated system. The program calculates cost savings, energy (Btu) savings, NO_x and CO₂ emission reductions and an overall picture of the payback period. It is a remarkable resource."

3E Plus is a practical and easy-to-use computer program that is an integral part of several private sector and government-sponsored energy efficiency programs. The program is the centerpiece of the National Insulation Association's (NIA) Insulation Energy Appraisal Certification Program. In addition, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has used it to develop its Industrial Insulation Guidelines. The DOE also uses 3E Plus in several programs offered through its Office of Industrial Technologies.

Along with 3E Plus version 3.0, NAIMA has launched a new web site that provides FREE downloads of 3E Plus and other valuable resources for program users. The web site, www.pipeinsulation.org, features case studies of 3E Plus performance, a photo essay showing use of 3E Plus in the field, downloads of the user manual, lists of state and utility incentive programs for increasing commercial and industrial insulation, and links to information on the NIA Energy Appraisal Program.

3E Plus Version 3.0 operates in a Windows^® 95, 98, 2000, ME, and 4.0 NT environment and can be obtained in the following ways:

	FREE from www.pipeinsulation.org
	FREE, along with other valuable energy efficiency software, from DOE's Office of Industrial Technologies Clearinghouse at 1-800-862-2086.
	The CD or 31/2" discs, along with printed versions of the 3E Plus® user's manual, can be ordered from NAIMA for $49 plus $7 shipping and handling.

For further information, contact NAIMA.