Thermal model of precast concrete curing process: Minimizing energy consumption

Worldwide, precast concrete elements are becoming the primary construction materials, and there have been conducted numbers of studies on their manufacturing process, mechanical properties and curing regime. However, the energy consumption of the precast concrete manufacturing process and specifically the curing process is ignored by researchers. In this study, a thermal model of a curing unit, including three main sections: a curing room, a steam transfer system and a boiler, is developed. Besides, based on the mathematical formulation of heat transfer, a MATLAB code is prepared to determine the heat transfer, the mass of steam, the mass of fuel and the annual fuel cost. By the MATLAB code, the effect of different parameters on the curing process energy consumption and the fuel cost is investigated. Eventually, a smart control system that is based on the condition of the curing unit in every moment is suggested. This system leads to a reduction of 30% of energy consumption and the annual fuel cost.