Electric models gain fast in furnace mart

Electric furnaces are taking over an increasing share of the industrial furnace market as a result of price and supply uncertainties of oil and natural gas and the cost of meeting new venting regulations. New requirements that all combustible materials be vented outside involves expensive ductwork for oil- and gas-fired furnaces and the loss of hot air. Although Btu costs are higher for electricity, total costs are competitive if electric furnaces are appropriate to the company's needs. A shift from rapid heating to energy efficiency has favored electricity even though the furnaces are more costly. Highly automated processes are especially suited to electric furnaces. Manufacturers of fossil-fueled furnaces are trying to retain their market with improvements in efficiency with heat recovery. Electricity is seen by industries as a more secure power source, however. Conversion of furnaces to electrical equipment is foreseen, although dual-fuel retrofitting is another alternative. Names and addresses of 73 major suppliers of industrial furnaces are listed. (DCK)