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Nationwide Boiler made waves at the IDEA Campus Energy 2025 Conference held in Boston, Massachusetts from February 3-6, 2025. The event served as a platform for showcasing cutting-edge solutions in district energy systems. A highlight of the conference was the presentation by Gordon Judd, Business Development Executive at Nationwide Boiler, who introduced innovative distributed heat pump configurations for district energy systems. The approach focuses on unlocking the hidden potential of chill water return lines to boost revenue and enhance energy efficiency.

Key Takeaways from Judd's PresentationIDEACampus2025 Gordon Brendan

Heat Exchangers vs. Heat Pumps

Judd began by explaining the fundamental difference between heat exchangers and heat pumps:

  • Heat exchangers allow heat to flow from hot to cold sources.

  • Heat pumps use electricity to reverse this process, moving heat from cold to hot sources.

This distinction is crucial for understanding the potential of heat pumps in district energy systems.


Innovative Use of Chilled Water Return Lines
Judd presented three scenarios demonstrating how heat pumps can leverage chilled water return lines:

  1. Adding Cooling Capacity: A 400-ton cooling load was added to a fully subscribed system by connecting to the return line and using a heat pump, achieving a remarkable coefficient of performance (COP) of 6.91.

  2. Providing Domestic Hot Water: A 500-room hotel's hot water needs were met using the chilled water return line as a heat source, with a COP of 3.8 for heating.     

  3. Space Heating Solution: A small commercial building's failing boiler was replaced with a heat pump system, utilizing the chilled water return line to provide 140°F water for space heating.


Benefits of Distributed Heat Pump Configurations 
Judd highlighted several advantages of this approach:

  • Increased system capacity without central plant upgrades.

  • New revenue streams from previously untapped resources.

  • Improved overall energy efficiency.

  • Carbon-free heating solutions compared to traditional gas boilers.


Implications for District Energy Providers
The presentation demonstrated that district energy providers can:

  1. Add new customers without expensive infrastructure upgrades

  2. Offer both heating and cooling services using existing chilled water systems

  3. Improve system efficiency and reduce carbon emissions


Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Campus Energy Systems

Gordon Judd's presentation at IDEA CampusEnergy 2025 showcased the immense potential of distributed heat pump configurations in district energy systems. By harnessing the untapped potential of chilled water return lines, campus energy providers can create new revenue streams, increase efficiency, and move towards more sustainable operations.

Nationwide Boiler remains committed to energy efficiency advancements, and our presence at this conference highlights that focus. Representing Oilon heat pumps, we are proud to offer innovative solutions that support decarbonization and energy savings. As we continue to explore and implement these cutting-edge solutions, we look forward to helping our clients optimize their energy systems for a more sustainable future.

For those interested in learning more, visit www.nationwideboiler.com or contact Gordon Judd at gjudd@nationwideboiler.com.

As a leader in the boiler industry, Nationwide Boiler understands the value of staying connected with industry professionals, customers, and partners to share insights, discuss advancements, and highlight our vast selection of boiler solutions. Tradeshows and industry events are an essential part of our commitment to delivering the best in everything we do. From boiler rental equipment to package boilers for sale, and custom control systems to emissions control solutions, we strive to provide reliable equipment and real customer service while satisfying the unique needs of each and every client.

With a variety of tradeshows on the schedule for this year, these events allow us to showcase our expertise, introduce cutting-edge technologies, and engage directly with those looking to optimize their operations. Whether you’re interested in rental boilers, custom equipment solutions, or emissions compliance, our team is ready to discuss how we can help meet your needs. Be sure to mark your calendars and visit us at one of the many events we’ll be exhibiting at in 2025!

  1. IDEA Campus Energy 2025 – February 3-6, 2025
    Boston, Massachusetts
    A dynamic event bringing together district energy leaders and innovators to explore the latest trends and technologies specifically geared towards colleges and university campuses. With expert sessions and networking opportunities, IDEA Campus is the perfect place to collaborate, learn, and discover new business opportunities.
  1. Food Processing Expo – February 5-6, 2025
    Sacramento, California
    A premier event for the food processing industry, featuring the latest technologies, equipment, and innovations. The Expo offers valuable networking opportunities, educational sessions, and insights into trends shaping the future of food production.
  1. WRBA Conference – March 25-27, 2025
    Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
    A key event for boiler industry professionals, offering networking, education, and insights on the latest technologies and safety practices.
  1. Western Turbine Users Conference – March 30 - April 2, 2025
    Long Beach, California
    A leading conference for turbine industry professionals, offering opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and insights into the latest turbine technologies and best practices.

In addition to these major events, we’ll also be attending:

  • WSSHE Spring Symposium – April 16-18, 2025
  • API Spring Meeting – May 5-9, 2025
  • IDEA Annual Conference – June 2-5, 2025
  • PRIME Expo – August 19, 2025

As we gear up for a great year ahead, we’re excited about the upcoming events and the opportunity to strengthen our connections within the industry. Follow Nationwide Boiler on the various social media platforms to stay informed about where we’ll be throughout the year, and be sure to visit us at our booth to learn more about how our team can provide solutions that will improve the efficiency and sustainability of your operations.

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nationwide-boiler-inc-

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationwideBoiler

Find our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NationwideBoiler

Shortly before midnight on April 14, 1912, the “safest and most luxurious passenger ship ever built” hit an iceberg off the Newfoundland coast. After lying dead in the water for about two-and-a-half hours, her bow began to submerge. In just minutes, this giant ship was nearly vertical, her stern soaring hundreds of feet in the frigid night air. Great plumes of steam billowed from her four stacks as she began her long descent to the bottom of the sea. More than 1,500 people stood on the decks singing “Nearer My God to Thee” as she slid beneath the waves taking them with her to their watery grave, thousands of feet below. That was the maiden voyage of the most famous luxury liner ever built, the White Star Lines’ Titanic. And it was the worst disaster in commercial naval history.
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Fifty-five years later, almost to the day, a crew of Hollywood actors, technicians, directors, camera operators, and the myriad others required to make a modern motion picture gathered a few miles south of Rosarito Beach on the west coast of Mexico’s Baja, California peninsula to recreate that dreadful night. To duplicate the steam erupting from the Titanic’s exploding boilers, Warner Brothers, 20th Century Fox and Paramount Pictures – all of whom are involved in the picture – turned to Nationwide Boiler.

A few weeks before filming of the sinking sequence began, Nationwide Boiler sales engineer, Russell Rabago received a call from one of the film’s special effects coordinators inquiring about the availability of a steam plant for use in the film. Within days, Russ was on his way to Mexico to examine the location and make sure about all the details. By late January, two of Nationwide’s mobile steam plants were loaded on trucks and headed to the border. Within days of their arrival, they were making steam. During filming, the steam provided by Nationwide Boiler’s equipment was used to simulate the effect of exploding boilers as the Titanic sunk. During filming of the Titanic’s sinking, “Even the stunt people looked scared when they saw the dailies of the 90-degree angle shot,” reported Francis Fisher, one of the lead actors in the film.

Titanic is one of the most expensive movies ever made. Currently, the estimated cost is $150 million. Although originally scheduled for a summer release, it is now planned to be in theaters this winter. To get a better idea why Titanic required such an enormous investment, consider the facility where the sinking sequence was simulated. First, new studio facilities were built. Next, an 80-foot-long model of the ship was constructed. Then the model was floated in a 180-million-gallon tank, constructed specifically for this sequence. And all this construction was only for the exterior shots. Interior sequences were filmed earlier over a period of many months.

“We’re not sure if Nationwide Boiler’s name will appear when the screen credits roll, but we’ll be watching,” says Mr. Rabago. “From everything that’s been reported so far, it will be a film like Gone with the Wind, which everyone will view sooner or later, and one they’ll be talking about for years to come.” Someday, Mr. Rabago will probably tell his grandchildren about the important part he played in making one of the greatest motion picture spectaculars of all time.

This article was originally featured in the Summer 1997 edition of our Steamlines newsletter.

At the end of a rental boiler project, proper decommissioning is key to ensure safe transport back to the rental boiler supplier and to avoid any unforeseen costs. It’s not just about disconnecting and moving the equipment - taking a few simple precautions can prevent potential damage and ensure everything is ready for return. Review and follow the steps below for a smooth, hassle-free pick-up and return of your rental boiler equipment.

Drain & Flush

Start by thoroughly draining and flushing all the boiler lines with clean water, making sure all water drain valves are fully opened. This step helps eliminate any remaining water that could cause corrosion or freeze damage, potentially harming the system during transport or storage. Flushing the lines also removes debris and buildup, improving the boiler’s performance for future use.

Inspect

Next, take the time to carefully inspect both the fireside and waterside surfaces for any visible damage, scale buildup, or issues with the refractory lining. These areas are crucial to the boiler’s efficiency, and any damage or buildup could lead to serious problems later. It’s also a good idea to take clear photos of the boiler’s condition at the end of the rental period. This way, there is a record to reference in case there are any questions or concerns about its condition when returned.

Equipment Prep for Removal

The stack and other components that were installed upon arrival to the jobsite should be removed and mounted back on the rental boiler trailer and/or shipping skid. Be sure to securely bolt the stub stack, non-return valve, safety valves, and vent valve back into place, just as they were when the equipment was delivered. Aligning everything properly ensures that each component stays in place during transport, avoiding movement or potential damage.

Additional equipment prep should be completed as follows:

  1. Cover all boiler openings: this includes the stack, steam, gas, and water connections, electrical panel, and safety valve openings.
  1. Reattach running gear and gooseneck: If the trailer was taken apart for transport, ensure that the running gear and gooseneck are properly reattached before moving the trailer.
  1. Check tire pressure: Before transport, it's important to check the tire pressure of the trailer. Make sure the tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels for optimal performance and safety.

By following these steps the return process becomes seamless, protecting the rental boiler, feed system or auxiliary equipment and ensuring that everything is handled properly from start to finish. If you have questions about preparing for the return delivery of your rental boiler equipment, don't hesitate to call Nationwide Boiler at 800-227-1966.