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A water services provider in Kenya's coast province has installed a new set of vertical
multistage pumps at its water treatment plant following a failure. Mawasco, based in Malindi, Kenya, procured a set of Poldap Dalgic Pump sets from Konya in Turkey as replacements. Shem Oirere tells the story.
31 January 2012
Energy savings can be obtained in several ways, but before manufacturers turn to hydraulic
optimisation of units or apply new electrical drives or powerful control systems, they should look at the dimensions of the pipelines and make sure they get the duty point specifications right. This can be done with the aid of web-based tools from Vogel Software.
24 January 2012
When a US wastewater treatment plant in South Carolina saw lower flows than expected, due to a delayed housing project, the facility experienced repeated vapour lock resulting in higher operational and chemical costs. The manual dilution operation resulted in increased operational and chemical costs, so a solution was sought in Grundfos' digital dosing technology.
24 January 2012
Brazil is known for its use of hydropower, but when a small, remote tourism complex in a Brazilian nature reserve needed additional power supply, a conventional hydropower solution was deemed too expensive. A more affordable option came in the form of a KSB centrifugal pump driving an electric motor acting as a generator.
17 January 2012
Frothing and breakdowns were regular occurrences for printer Portishead Press as their air-operated diaphragm pump and its seals could not cope with the caustic coating solution used
by the printer. The company needed a pump that could move the coating fluid quickly, without
introducing air, so they looked at a Watson-Marlow close coupled peristaltic pump to provide the answer.
17 January 2012
Horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing technologies grant access to natural gas encased in shale formations. However, this is just the start of overcoming challenges associated with a shale well’s 20 plus year life
expectancy. New diaphragm pump technology from Neptune Pump Company is providing solutions to the harsh realities of shale well production.
03 January 2012
Pumps represent a significant target for energy savings. The need to measure, monitor and manage consumption is viewed as an integral
part of all process systems. Here, Jack Creamer from Schneider demonstrates that a process energy optimization approach can allow energy consumption to be analysed and managed, giving potential efficiency gains of up to 30%.
03 January 2012
Some industrial processes require the throttling of high pressure
fluids. Hydraulic power recovery turbines can convert the excess
pressure into mechanical shaft energy and increase the overall
process efficiency. Here, Ron Adams from Sulzer Pumps looks at how reverse running pumps can be used as turbines as an economical solution to recover energy.
13 December 2011
At the heart of any hydraulic system, pumps are exposed to severe wear by running at high revolutions over extended periods of time,
often handling high temperatures and pressures. Today, some of the latest lubrication science is creating even greater benefits from
this often-forgotten component, says Shell's Mark Draper.
13 December 2011
C. Kallesøe, J. Aarestrup and K. Rokkjær of Grundfos analyse the control and design of booster sets from an energy perspective. They investigate how the structure and control can be used to minimize energy consumption, and demonstrate that equally sized pumps equipped with speed control and running at the same speed are a safe design choice.
06 December 2011
In oil and gas pipes, the quality of the root pass of a weld is critical to the structural integrity of the girth weld. Optical Metrology Services Limited (OMS) discusses how video inspection and internal weld scanning tools are being used to check weld quality on pipes and other deep sea subsea oil and gas structures.
06 December 2011
As water companies reduce water pressure in the domestic mains to reduce leakages, tall buildings are becoming reliant on booster
pumps to provide water at sufficient pressure to enable normal daily living. This has revealed a potential threat – hydraulic shock, says Gary Wheatley from Wilo (U.K.) Ltd.
29 November 2011
Harmonic distortion is a form of pollution in the electricity supply that can make equipment
behave erratically. They can be difficult to identify and users often attribute the symptoms to other causes, frequently applying mitigating action that fails to solve the problem. Here, ABB gives a few examples of how harmonics can be effectively dealt with if properly identified.
22 November 2011
The pumping of high temperature titanium tetrachloride can cause manufacturing and safety issues. So how can we ensure that manufacturing processes are safe from chemical attack? The combination of a John Crane 3740D seal and DuPont’s
Vespel bearing sleeve material resulted in total success, as Vic Lundberg reports.
22 November 2011
Centrifugal pumps are widely used in industry and many are driven
by induction motors. Failure due to pump bearing degradation would
result in an unscheduled shutdown leading to production and revenue
losses. Parasuram Harihara from Corning Incorporated and Alexander Parlos from Texas A&M propose a technique to detect bearing deterioration using the motor’s electrical signals.
15 November 2011
One of the biggest areas of growth for the pump industry over the last two decades has been in the South American and Latin American markets, particular in the oil and gas, mining and power generation industries. This expansion is partly thanks to the NAFTA agreement, changes in customs regulations and the desire of major manufacturers to diversify. Keith Loria reports.
08 November 2011
Jeremy Salisbury from Brammer UK shows how ensuring that a centrifugal process pump operates
at optimum speed and efficiency is key to maintaining productivity, reducing energy consumption and maximizing product life. He examines the technologies available to optimize operation and reliability, and the
paybacks achievable through investment in appropriate control.
01 November 2011
While considerable energy savings can be achieved by installing variable speed drives in standard pump systems, VSDs are less common in submersible applications, being more difficult to implement. However, it
is well worth the effort as the energy savings and process improvements can be enormous. Here, ABB examines the main factors to consider.
01 November 2011
While it is forecasted that fossil fuel power generation will remain an important energy supplier in the next 20–30 years, other emerging technologies aim to avoid the production of CO2. Here, Sabine Sulzer from Sulzer Pumps looks at new, CO2 emission-free energy technologies, such as solar energy and bio-fuels, as well as carbon capture and storage (CCS).
25 October 2011
Processing and handling foodstuffs are critical operations that often demand specialist
pumps, such as pulse-free types that can gently displace a perfectly even volume with each revolution. These machines are ideal for use in the food and beverage industries, among
others. Here are a few case studies illustrating different aspects of food & drink processing using Watson-Marlow pumps.
18 October 2011
In this multipart series, Eduardo Larralde and Rafael Ocampo aim to provide a comprehensive survey of the current state of the art concerning gas compressors. Following the elucidation of the basic concepts and theory in the opening article, the series continues with the classification of different compressor types.
07 September 2011
Installing a Drum Unloading System can help to prevent hazardous processes effects due to potential employee injury and food safety. It also will save time and money thanks to the recent advancements to the Drum Unloading System by Graco.
06 September 2011
Transparency of operating conditions is of vital importance, because this is the only way for operators to ensure that their pumps run at
optimum conditions, reducing energy consumption and increasing service life. This article examines KSB's PumpMeter, that is designed to measure pump input power for optimum operation.
30 August 2011
Water movement, treatment and testing specialist, ITT Corporation, recently underwent a reorganisation. The company has appointed new executives to global positions as a result, and here they talk to Keith Loria about their roles in this transition to a new standalone pumps and water equipment firm.
24 August 2011
Many countries have been reassessing nuclear power to help obtain a sustainable energy mix. China is planning the latest generation of intrinsically safer reactors, although it temporarily suspended approvals
following Japan's Fukushima accident. Ranald Patrick describes a steam turbine driven pump that provides reliable reactor cooling.
17 August 2011
Cavitation has been identified as one of the leading causes of reduced reliability in centrifugal pumps. Joseph Askew examines
the causes of cavitation and discusses real-world solutions to correct them. The same troubleshooting techniques can also be applied at the design stage to prevent cavitation from the outset.
09 August 2011
The EU directive calling for the use of marine fuels with a far lower sulphur content is causing pump manufacturers to examine how pumps that rely on the lubrication provided by heavier fuels can comply with this legislation. One rotary pump specialist has responded by redesigning its triple screw pump.
09 August 2011
In spite of investment in predictive maintenance (PdM) and considerable effort being focused on reliability engineering, process pump users continue to experience unexpected repeat failures. Heinz P. Bloch examines both repeat and random failures and explains some of the elusive causes.
02 August 2011
Choosing which pumps to buy can be a complicated process for the operators of wastewater treatment plants. With the desire for energy savings and pump efficiency at the top of the wish list, it is a competitive market. Keith Loria presents an insight into the procurement process, from new advances to buying and tendering.
26 July 2011
An innovative pump head for the highest pressures features a PTFE diaphragm with special clamped support. The result is more cost efficient than conventional metal membrane pump heads, yet provides very high pressures for the latest oil and gas sector applications. World Pumps talks with Lewa's Martin Dreher.
26 July 2011
A charity working with the Gran Sous community in Haiti required a solution to a longterm water purification problem. A technology was needed which could accurately dose the community’s water supply with sodium hypochlorite solution. An electronic diaphragm metering pump was chosen which provided an easy to operate and maintain solution.
19 July 2011
The stunning Istanbul Sapphire is the tallest residential building in Europe and its first true
ecological one. The building has had to cater for residential and leisure zones alongside a large shopping mall. As a result, its pumps had to meet the heating, cooling, wastewater, drainage and potable water applications demands, while offering environmental solutions.
19 July 2011
With Croatia fast becoming a major hotspot for European sun-loving tourists, its campsites
are investing in infrastructure to benefit from increased tourist demand. One campsite,
Camp Škrila, found that installing submersible aerators would provide an immediate, costeffective upgrade to its existing wastewater-treatment facilities.
12 July 2011
At the UK coastal city of Kingston-upon-Hull during high tides, parts of the city lie below
sea level and the surrounding plain is at a higher level. Therefore, well-maintained drainage systems are an essential flood-protection strategy and the city’s existing pumping stations have been undergoing much needed refurbishment.
12 July 2011
A city in India is the site for an enormous mixed use development, featuring residential apartments, leisure facilities, office space and retail outlets. The developers wanted the
pumping systems to echo the project’s ambitious outlook and found a solution in a range of water and HVAC pumps.
01 July 2011
A European manufacturer of extruder gear units and vertical mills required individually configured, high capacity pumps to supply the gear units with lubricating and cooling liquid. Screw pumps proved succesful in meeting these elevated capacity requirements. The design avoids noise generation and provides a long service life by preventing premature wear to the pump.
01 July 2011
Reduced energy consumption, increased service life and, therefore, improved profitability – these are all possible using the latest industrial pump technologies. Such machines still offer huge potential for savings that can be tapped using a new system efficiency service.
29 June 2011
Proven satisfactory operating experience together with the lessons learned from the past provide a sound basis for commercial specifications. In this article, Dr Edward Grist reviews experience gained over a number of years applying this approach to the specifications for power station feedwater pumps.
29 June 2011
Pump blockages and rags are a significant barrier to realizing energy and operational efficiencies in wastewater pumping throughout the world. In this case study, Graeme Moore of Scottish Water details
the blockage problems at the company’s Levenhall Sewage Pumping Station and discusses the approach taken to their solution.
22 June 2011
Recent advancements in air distribution systems (ADS), including efficiency management equipment, have resulted in drastically improved overall efficiencies of air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pumps. This, in turn, has resulted in better reliability and very considerably improved energy cost savings, reports Curtis Dietzsch.
22 June 2011
Wastewater often carries solid wastes and its effective management to prevent blockages
and prepare for any recycling is essential. Efficient pumps are needed, but so are mechanisms to remove all solid wastes, which may be rag, paper, sludges, biosolids and abrasive particles. Macerators provide one way of tackling the problem.
16 June 2011
Gas compressors find a wide range of uses, from internal combustion engines and industrial processes to domestic gas supply and refrigeration. In this first article of a nine-part series, Eduardo Larralde and Rafael Ocampo set out the basics, discussing the theoretical laws that govern the behaviour of compressors and the parameters fundamental to their design.
15 June 2011
There seems to be no end to the continuing drive towards the miniaturisation of displacement measurement sensors, particularly with regard to integrated electronics and to smarter sensors that offer an abundance of features. This article discusses how they can bring real advantages over existing technology.
15 June 2011
Catastrophic failure is a possible outcome when inlet pipework is over-pressurized or when the rotor of a high-energy pump seizes.
Both can result from the low-flow protection failing to act promptly. Dr Edward Grist shows that pipework layout, pump design and leak-off system design greatly influence the risk of failure.
08 June 2011
To correctly evaluate the operational and maintenance state of a pump, reasonably high levels of technical knowledge and operational experience are required. The ability to learn these skills is offered through two academic distance-learning study programmes: 'Pump Engineer' and 'Certified Energy Consultant for Pumps and Pump Systems'.
02 June 2011
A Welsh water treatment supplier had problems with pumps that required a complete
overhaul every six months, and greatly decreased process efficiency. Installing a new
range of progressive cavity pumps made it possible to remove parts in situ and reduce
maintenance downtime.
01 June 2011
A California-based provider of syringe pumps wanted to manufacture a fail-safe pmp that
would run 24/7 and avoid breaking or leakages. Collaborating with a seal manufacturer led to the creation of a self-lubricating polymer seal that allows precision dosing of liquids and helps reduce downtime.
01 June 2011
A European hospital identified that an advanced technology combined heat and power
(CHP) plant would reduce energy costs and reduce overall carbon emissions by generating
its own electricity. By using 3D computer modeling it was able to determine how best to
optimise the space and reduce footprint, significantly reducing any impact the project
might have on day-to-day care.
25 May 2011
A new health and leisure centre in the UK required a holistic approach to the energy-efficiency of
its HVAC system. A range of centrifugal pumps for heating and cooling, and complete pressure
boosting systems allowed the centre to reduce its carbon footprint, focus on energy saving, and
stay healthy for longer, aiding the whole community.
25 May 2011
GE Oil and Gas provides turnkey solutions for refinery and petrochemical applications. World Pumps asked Claudio Materazzi, Chairman of the company, about the sectors it addresses and the rationale behind the company’s recently launched liquid CO2 re-injection pump, designed to remove oil from depleted fields.
18 May 2011
With their leak-free design, high reliability and reduced footprint, canned motor pumps are capable of handling even the most difficult liquids safely and economically. As the requirements for environmental protection and safety increase, demand for these pumps is growing steadily. Bryan Orchard provides the details.
18 May 2011
Using sensors to measure the displacement of hydraulic cylinders has meant that the sensors can be susceptible to dirt, dust and soiling. These limitations demand a new approach. By integrating a draw-wire displacement sensor, piston rods no longer have to be deep bore drilled using specialist equipment.
11 May 2011
This paper describes the possibilities for energy optimisation in sewage pumping stations, and why continuous optimisation is necessary in order to gain the full benefits. Here we look at new up and coming features that will enhance performance-on-demand, ensuring that minimum energy consumption is always obtained despite of changes in the system.
11 May 2011
A significant water reclamation plant in Singapore required variable speed drives to handle its
sewage pump motors. Careful handling was required to avoid torsional stress on the motor
shafts, which were liable to break. A range of medium voltage variable speed drives offered
smooth starting and improved water flow.
04 May 2011
The floods that hit Australia at the beginning of 2011 were devastating. In Queensland
alone, the floods covered an area the size of France and Germany combined. Here’s how one
company provided each dealer in the affected areas with submersible pumps to be used as
free loan pumps to assist local communities with their relief efforts.
04 May 2011
In this second of two articles concerning axial flow impellers, Punit
Singh and Franz Nestmann of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology focus
on backward curved impellers, revealing hydraulic behaviour that is
interesting and unexpected in pump and turbine operations respectively.
They also compare the performance of forward and backward curved
impellers to determine the optimum impeller shape for turbines.
27 April 2011
Tower Bridge is one of the most well known tourist sites in London, UK. But like other bridges
it requires up to date technology to keep it running successfully. A new dewatering pump
transfered rainwater and ground water from the River Thames to the surface, keeping the
towers free of water and ensuring the future of this historic structure.
27 April 2011
BP required condition monitoring of the seawater pump motors on board its fleet of marine
hydrocarbon carriers. It installed a unit which takes information from the voltage and current
of the motor, and uses intelligent mathematical modelling to monitor faults. Using this new
technology, it found that impeller related damage was affecting the pumps.
20 April 2011
The installation of vacuum wastewater collection systems to collect
and transport domestic wastewater is increasing, leading to more
frequent questions concerning their energy usage. Li Min and
Zhou Jingxuan of Huazhong University of Science and Technology
in China have derived a theoretical model to provide the answers.
20 April 2011
A European pilot production coal-bed methane extraction plant required an alternative to the
electrical submersible pumps used for dewatering. The pumps were difficult to size correctly,
and would be difficult to remove for repairs. High pressure, triplex positive displacement
pumps were selected as an alternative, providing an efficient and effective solution.
13 April 2011
When a social housing scheme’s heating system reached the end of its useful life, it looked as
though the facility would have to shut down for maintenance during the winter months. The
off-site construction of an integrated heating system made it possible for the changeover of
the boiler plant to take place within just one day.
13 April 2011
Using hybrids for flow maintenance
Frank Hassert discusses why many applications benefit from
using multifunction hybrid pumps, which combine side-channel
technology with standard centrifugal pumps. The side-channel
pump hydraulics enable the pump to achieve pump heads many
times higher than those generated by a centrifugal pump.
13 April 2011
While a completely carbon neutral solution is not yet possible, a luxury hotel in Copenhagen
comes close to achieving it by deploying some of the latest environmental and energy
technology on the market. A ground water cooling system allows recycled heat from the
summer months to be used during the cold winter months.
06 April 2011
Potentiometers have been around for a long time and are still, by far, the most commonly used
position sensor in pumping systems. So why does every design engineer seem to be looking
for a non-contact alternative? Mark Howard from Zettlex Ltd examines this phenomenon and
explains the pros and cons of potentiometers.
06 April 2011
A streamlined solution was needed for the building service element of a landmark building
under construction in the City of London. The high efficiency heat exchange modules,
variable speed pumps and booster sets were packaged off-site and supplied in ready-to-install
modules. This cut installation times and reduced deliveries to the busy site.
24 March 2011
A huge pocket containing some thousands of gallons of water had formed under a glacier
on Mont Blanc. It had to be emptied before it burst and endangered the lives of the people
below. The choice fell on Caprari mixed flow pumps to empty the equivalent of more than
20 Olympic swimming pools.
24 March 2011
A Belgian brewery required a pump which could accurately dose liquid sugar into beer,
in order to fulfil an ongoing order. A close-coupled peristaltic pump was chosen which
features accurate single shot dispensing. The peristaltic technology eliminates the risk of
contamination by ensuring nothing but the tube touches the fluid.
16 March 2011
The biofuels sector, including biogas, is a fast growing industry because it means less reliance on fossil fuels, and it is sustainable. However, biomass is a difficult media, so has to be broken down to allow pumping to take place efficiently and to maximize biogas production. Harald Vogelsang explains.
16 March 2011
The increasing importance of low head applications necessitates a study of the different axial flow pump impellers used for both pump and turbine operations. In this first of two articles, Punit Singh and Franz Nestmann of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology survey the available impeller shapes and present a theoretical model that reveals the behaviour of the impellers’ internal hydraulic variables.
16 March 2011
Blockages at a European sewage treatment works were causing downtime and flooding.
Replacement pumps were sought on a ‘try before you buy’ basis to prevent a repeat of
previous problems. During the trial period, no blockages occurred, and the pump proved
capable of coping with the flow without apparent damage or wear.
09 March 2011
Centrifugal pumps have dominated the global pump market for most of the last century. However, does the current financial crisis mean that their long growth potential is assured? Here, the market research organisation Frost & Sullivan considers some of the factors that continue to drive the demand.
09 March 2011
A European wastewater treatment plant, built in an underground cavern, required an energy efficient and accurate water treatment process. The plant achieved this goal by using more than 50 variable speed drives, which provided the added benefit of reducing strain on the plant, leading to an increased operating life.
02 March 2011
Cost considerations and the trend towards energy efficiency have induced pump manufactuers to provide trouble-free solutions for
machine tool maintenance. This article examines how centrifugal pumps with frequency-controlled motors, combined with the
correct adjustment to their operating points, can lead to reduced lifecycle costs.
02 March 2011
To meet future pollution control regulations, ships will be obliged to switch from viscous high-sulphur heavy fuel oil to poorly lubricating thin distillate fuels. By using seal-less pumps, two heavy lift ships working in northern waters are tackling the problems of premature wear, high repair costs and failure associated with distillates.
22 February 2011
Nowadays, condition monitoring is widely used as an essential tool for the efficient operation of a production plant. Here, H. Sedaghati Nasab, M. Massoumian and H. Karimi of the maintenance department at Zagros Petrochemical Co in Iran discuss their experiences with a problematic boiler feed water pump and their route to the solution.
22 February 2011
In response to widespread drought in Andhra Pradesh, the Indian government launched a project aimed at irrigating the dry agricultural land. Pumps were needed to transport large volumes of water over long distances to the pumping stations being built. Vertical volute pumps driven by synchronous motors provided an efficient solution.
22 February 2011
Municipalities in the United States are searching for environmentally friendly, energy efficient solutions to water and sewage issues. With
a large number of important water and wastewater projects currently underway, the correct choice of pump is vital. Keith Loria examines
how leading pump providers have helped with these decisions.
22 February 2011
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions have, collectively, the world’s largest supplies of oil and gas. However, other industries
such as desalination, water supply, mining and power generation also provide an important market for pump suppliers. James Hunt gives an
overview of some of the latest activities in these areas.
16 February 2011
Packaged pumping systems offer ease of installation, single source responsibility and a streamlined manufacturing process. This article
discusses the best way to use them to satisfy the demands of municipal distribution systems, industrial process systems, non potable
and water reuse systems and domestic water booster systems.
16 February 2011
A US specialist in enhanced oil recovery systems required pumps for a polymer injection facility in a Wyoming oilfield. Seal-less diaphragm pumps were selected for the 24 hour facility. Their ongoing long-service performance and gentle handling of the polymers led to additional pumps being installed to extend the facility.
09 February 2011
The German Federal Government supports the use of regenerative energy. Two prototype river turbines were installed in the river Rhine, near the German town of St Goar. The turbines successfully provided the town with electric power from river water, prompting the company who designed them to put them into commercial operation.
04 February 2011
Industrial plants frequently employ oversized pumps out of caution. Pressure losses, and consequently energy consumption, may thus
be unnecessarily high. Dr Walter Schicketanz explains in detail how such avoidable pressure drops can be determined both theoretically
and in the field, as well as examining how to reduce them.
02 February 2011
Population growth and improved standards of living in the Middle East have greatly increased the demand for water and sanitation services, along with the need for more water for agricultural uses. Debbie Fox and Ann James of McIlvaine Company discuss potential opportunities for pumps in the region.
26 January 2011
The concentrating solar power stations may supply a significant amount of the Middle East and North Africa’s electrical power
needs over coming decades. However, this approach requires specialized pumps capable of handling molten salt at high
temperatures with total reliability, as James Hunt reports.
19 January 2011
A media company in the UK required a number of packaged pump sets to complete three phases of new development. A series of pumps were chosen which incorporate elements of pre-design with the benefits of off- manufacture. The result is a reduction of the design, construction and installation phase.
24 November 2010
Atia Khalifa, Amro Al-Qutub and Yehia Khulief of Saudi Arabia's King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals present a case history in which problematic high flow-induced vibration in a boiler feed pump was studied and corrected. A combination of field measeurements and lab model testing identified the source of the problem.
22 November 2010
Seal-less drives, together with sliding vane pumps, take the drive to reduce energy consumption and increase environmental protection without sacrificing performance to a new level. Mouvex's Paul Cardon says that these technologies provide significant advantages over gear pumps in the quest to reduce energy consumption and cost.
22 November 2010
The International Energy Outlook 2010 projections, published by the United States Energy Information Administration, predicts a 49% increase in the total world consumption of marketed energy from 2007 to 2035. The escalating cost of fossil fuels, its availability, and environmental concerns, are forcing the world to find alternative sources of energy.
22 November 2010
Drs Fumitaka Kikkawa, Ryutaro Ogawa and Hiroshi Satoh of Mikasa Corp discuss the characteristics and advantages of submersible bearings made from PTFE. Here, the importance of the bearing material and the grooved structure is further elucidated with reference to dry-start' capability, abrasion resistance and vibration behaviour.
22 November 2010
The food and drink market is a significant one for the pump industry. India is the largest milk producer in the world, producing 104.8 million tonnes annually, with consumption set to treble by 2020. World Pumps India talked to Tamil Nadu Co-operative Milk Producers Federation about milk production processes in the country.
22 November 2010
Fatigue-induced rupture of the rubber diaphragm is one of the most common causes of failure in submersible pumps. In this article, Amin Akhbarizadeh and Alireza Araghi of Iran’s Pars Koral Ghomes Co demonstrate how diaphragm fatigue life can be improved via simulation and new mechanical design.
20 October 2010
The British Pump Manufacturers Association Ltd. (BPMA) is seeking to bring energy saving domestic and non-domestic pumps into the revised 2010 Building Regulations, with DEFRA support. Steve Schofield, technical director, explains why this has come about and the implications.
05 October 2010
Over the past ten years, the number of M&A transitions in the fragmented global pump industry proved it was not immune to the macroeconomic forces that stifled M&A activity in many other industries. Brendan Tierney presents an overview.
05 October 2010
This is the final instalment in our look at packaged booster sets in commercial buildings. Previous articles took in packaged booster pumps sets and variable speed booster pumps sets. This article examines handling water under pressure in tall buildings, highlighting the risks and identifying design solutions.
05 October 2010
In this article, Alan Roddis examines a typical submersible pump to determine what changes can be made to improve sealing effectiveness. He concentrates on three primary elements of seal performance; seal design, seal face materials and sealing environment, and includes a case stufy to illustrate these changes.
05 October 2010
Sophisticated controls, VSD drives, efficient motors - but don't forget the pump! Paul Davis looks at how design fundamentals and the effects of pump wear impact directly on energy costs. Can seal-less pumps lead the way to more efficient systems?
05 October 2010
This is another in our occasional series of ‘basic' articles. Courtesy of the Waterworks museum in the UK, we present some brief insights into the background and development of desalination pumps. The article gives an overview of reverse osmosis and multi-stage flash process.
08 September 2010
This is the second in a three-part series looking at different aspects of booster sets. The first installment, about commercial building packaged booster pumps sets, examined the background, break tank supply, boosted water operation, expansion vessel storage, and traditional controls. This article looks at variable speed booster sets.
08 September 2010
Alan Robinson of weld overlay cladding specialist Arc Energy Resources discusses the benefits of using the various techniques to protect the internal surfaces of pumps handling difficult media from corrosion. Here, he argues that this can be more cost-effective than using highly alloyed materials for the whole machine.
08 September 2010
Many companies use manufacturer test-bed statistics to make purchasing decisions. However, these take little account of the effect the pumped media has on power consumption. To get a true understanding of the overall efficiency of their pump, a measurement of sustained efficiency over time using data from users' own pumping station assets is vital.
07 September 2010
Vibration is an enemy of water and wastewater pumps. Phil Burge explores the latest condition monitoring solutions, and also examines how they can be integrated, as part of higher level asset efficiency optimization programmes, to overcome the problems caused by vibrations.
07 September 2010
Warren Rupp, Inc. has developed a new, patent pending technology that optimizes the pump efficiency and utilizes adaptive optimization as pump application parameters change.
01 September 2010
Investment in R&D is vital, especially during a recession, because it allows companies to meet the demands of new technologies and diversify. So says KSB's Dr Soenke Brodersen who describes how the company's research department develops products to meet new requirements.
10 August 2010
In these energy-conscious times, pumping applications offer the potential for significant energy savings. Variable frequency drives are commonly applied for this purpose but are not the only solution available. Complementary solutions such as soft starters and energy management systems are also explored here by Jack Creamer and Grant Van Hemert of Schneider Electric.
10 August 2010
In spite of the importance of suction specific speed (S) to cavitation behaviour, some users pay little attention to this parameter when they select and size a centrifugal pump. In this article, Behshad Moradi of PSN highlights the role the S-value plays in the hydraulic characteristics of centrifugal pumps and aims to make users more aware of this important factor.
10 August 2010
This month sees the start of a three-part series that will build into a reference for commercial building packaged booster sets. This first part examines background and set design. The second part will look at variable speed booster sets, while the third will focus on high-rise building boosters.
10 August 2010
Pumps use a lot of energy, an increasingly important concern today. Here, Dipl. Ing. (FH) Jürgen Konrad looks at the latest designs and materials for containment shells fitted to magnetically-coupled pumps, which can save significant energy for quickly amortised initial outlay. Operators can profit too.
10 August 2010
Patrick Deniau of Milton Roy Europe takes a historical look at metering pumps, their long development, and the technological breakthroughs that have led to the most modern designs, including the very latest hydraulic actuated diaphragm types. Eco-design principles are now used to great effect.
02 August 2010
In this article from Algeria, A. Benretem with co-authors M. Benidir and R. Chaib discuss their study of the rheological behaviour of water-phosphate slurries containing various concentrations of solid particles. The influence of particle size, particle size distribution and concentration on the mixture's transport velocity and viscosity are examined.
02 August 2010
In the attempt to reduce CO2 emissions, biofuels are playing an increasingly important role. But the aggressive acids, high temperatures, high viscous media and strict legislation involved impose significant demands on components. KSB's Michael Bauer looks at the pump technology that is helping develop this growing sector.
20 July 2010
Robert McIlvaine and Ann James of McIlvaine Company show how extracting gas from shale deposits has become ever more economical, and discuss how pumps can play a role in this increasingly important form of energy, looking at a selection of important wells across the U.S.
14 July 2010
While World Pumps publishes many technical features, it is always good to go back to basics. Courtesy of the Waterworld museum in the UK, we present some brief insights into the development of centrifugal submersible pumps, with some recnet examples.
15 June 2010
Many of the AC drives used by the water and wastewater industry are approaching 20 years old. Even with careful maintenance there comes a point when the decision has to be taken whether to replace, upgrade or retrofit? Here we define the choices available.
09 June 2010
Reinhard Kurtz and Katrine Abraham discuss automotive industry and other surface treatment applications. They examine the issues and look at how to design pumps and seals to handle the fluids concerned. Their simple solutions allow smooth process flows without disturbances and costly downtime.
10 May 2010
Modern metering pumps are generally environmentally friendly and efficient. To ensure reliability and safety when handling hazardous media, hermetically-sealed equipment uses intelligent break-sensing and separating diaphragms, plus reliable failure recognition. A Bubb and B Freissler of ProMinent report.
10 May 2010
Environmental benefits of dry vacuum pumping, particularly for reducing pollution and operating costs, have long been appreciated and progressive vacuum users are learning how best to exploit experiences in India.
10 May 2010
As equipment and machinery becomes more complex and automated, the need to have a properly structured and funded maintenance strategy is more important than ever. A recently released white paper provides engineers with advice and guidence on the condition monitoring of rolling bearings.
10 May 2010
Condition monitoring tests are beneficial in improving both the operation and maintenance of pumping systems. Here, Ray Beebe of Monash University uses a slurry pump case study to illustrate the value of basic head-flow tests for a system where restricted access made conventional flow measeurements difficult.
20 April 2010
In the USA, the McIlvaine Company has developed a classification tool to aid decision-making processes, such as the selection of an appropriate pump for a particular application. Robert McIlvaine explains the theoretical concepts behind the system and illustrates its benefits with some practical examples.
20 April 2010
Gerhard Rohlfing discusses the current state of conditioning examination in multiphase twin screw pump systems and how it can increase pump life. He also looks at some examples in the oil and gas industry where, done correctly, it has been found to improve efficiency.
20 April 2010
ABB's Jukka Tolvanen introduces life cycle cost analysis and shows how efficient motors and AC drives can often be used to minimise lifetime costs, especially in high usage pump and fan systems
25 March 2010
Regulatory agencies in both the US and Europe are tightening controls on fugitive emissions, such as equipment leaks, as opposed to point-source emissions from reactor vents or boiler exhaust stacks. Michael Adkins and Pete Ehlers, both of Swagelok, explain how choosing the right ball valve can keep you in compliance.
10 March 2010
For many applications, VSD motors are set far away from the pumps they run, which can cause bearing damage and motor failure. Steve Hughes, managing director of REO, explains how new filter technology can protect these hidden motors.
10 March 2010
Fires in Queensland and New South Wales in August are not unheard of, but are often a forewarning of more serious fires to come once the heat of summer arrives. This makes it all the more important for firefighters and homwowners to ensure they have the best pump equipment to help fight the flames.
08 March 2010
Central heating manufacturers are developing environmentally-conscious technologies which can effectively distribute heat, while saving energy. Phil Marris discusses the technological developments in the heating industry which have made the use of heat pumps with powerful, compact radiators a reality.
08 March 2010
Choosing the most appropriate and cost-effective centrifugal pump for a given duty requires strict adherance to a thorough selection process, as Eduardo Larralde and Rafael Ocampo discussed in the first article of this two-part series. Here they demonstrate the application of the selection procedure in practice with a real-life example.
05 March 2010
In June 2008, Ole Weiner was appointed President and CEO of AxFlow Holding AB. In this article we look at how he has maintained Axflow's growth during a period when conditions throughout all areas of the processing industry have deteriorated and continue to give rise for concern.
04 March 2010
The advantages of the 'intelligent building' are the increase of user comfort as well as the reduction of operating costs. existing pump technology, such as that found in heating and air-conditioning, can contribute to this. Here we examine a flexible concept with which electronic pumps can be integrated into different building automation systems.
04 March 2010
With significant state funding being allocated for wastewater and drinking infrastructure improvements throughout the US, there will be a need to temporarily divery water flows during construction improvements. With the demand for bypass pumping systems set to grow, Del Ritz discusses how to implement a successful bypass operation.
03 March 2010
Flaring and venting of greenhouse gases during oil production contribute considerably to climate change. Most oil producing countries are preparing for the end of flaring. Hans Juergen Schoener looks at the contribution of multiphase pumping to the protection of climate and environment.
03 March 2010
This article looks at methods used to reduce the harmonic distortion produced by variable speed drives, including reactors, multi-pulse solutions and passive harmonic filters. It also refutes some of the criticisms of low harmonic drives made by some commentators.
03 March 2010
The design and operation of hot water systems typically appear to be straightforward. However, particularly in large buildings with many users, inexpert system design can result in unsatisfactory supply issues, as this article illustrates using a real-life example of a large hospital.
03 March 2010
Electrical power generation plants using various types of steam cycle place high demands on the pumps that feed and look after the steam generators. To a large extent, the pump types vary with the power plant type and come in different configurations. James Hunt provides a basic guide to pumps in power generation.
03 March 2010
The results of a study on the hydraulic performance of open-bottom canned pump intakes should aid engineers and pump users to design these systems with reduced velocity fluctuations and undesirable flow rotation. This article provides the details.
02 March 2010
Effective monitoring of thrust bearing wear is a crucial factor in preventing pump and impeller damage. This article describes the techniques available for monitoring thrust bearings on boiler feed equipment, and explains hot the technology can be successfully implemented and commissioned.
02 March 2010
Net positive suction head calculations are routinely used to establish whether centrifugal pumps will operate satisfactorily in a given process. However, extending the NPSH concept to metering pumps presents a number of difficulties, as this article explains.
02 March 2010
A look at the important development of the dry, oil-free vacuum pump, which solved the back streaming problems that had previously plagued major industry sectors for years - metallurgy, vacuum drying and semiconductor manufacture amoung them.
01 March 2010
To develop a sewage water pump for extreme operating conditions and high power consumption requires numerical simulation, advanced prototype manufacturing and experimental verification of design data. This article describes the process.
01 March 2010
Environmentally friendly dry vacuum pumps have great energy saving possibilities and have the potential for the lowest cost of ownership in chemical and biofuel processes. This article explains the benefits.
01 March 2010
To reduce the energy consumption of a parallel pumping system the whole pumping process can its components must be monitored. Simulated environments can be used in finding energy saving potential. This article looks at the different technical solutions which could help realise this, such as VSD installment or changing speed adjustment methods.
25 February 2010
There are many ways to increase the efficiency of pump. Here, lew Beck at Oconee Nuclear Station discusses two of them: firstly the use of ceramic type coatings applied to pump intervals such as the impeller and casing, and secondly through the renewal od original filts and tolerances.
25 February 2010
Decisions and actions taken during the specifying, commissioning, operation and maintenance of centrifugal pumps can all affect reliability. This is an increasingly important issue with the growing emphasis on efficiency and cost reduction. Trinath Sahoo of Indian Oil Corp provides the details.
25 February 2010
Gas turbocompressors are essential for gas pumping, transport and other duties in expanding petrochemical, gas and process industry sectors worldwide. James Hunt explains the different uses and demands for gas turbocompressors, and also what is needed by way of materials and construction for optimum results.
19 February 2010
Gunther A Meyer and Wolfgang Leiber of Allweiler AG discuss the many ways in which pump operators can influence the service life and efficiency of the pumps in their charge, and therby reduce total costs. Factors affecting both rotodynamic and positive displacement pumps are considered.
19 February 2010
A consideration of coupled FEM-CFD simulations as the potential basis for a condition monitoring tool to improve the lifetime and performance of boiler feed water pumps in power plants.
19 February 2010
A consideration of the variety of factors which determine the selection of centrifugal pumps for applications involving the transport of solid-liquid mixtures. The influence of wear on the operating parameters of these pumps is also examined.
19 February 2010
Pump capacity is mainly controlled by means of throttle valves or by varying the rotational speed. This article considers the advantages and diadvantages of both methods and whether it is always useful to use speed regulation.
19 February 2010
Variable-frequency electronic drives are becoming common place for many applications. However, if operating conditions change, these drives can also adversely affect some pump components. This article looks at the changes which might occur and argues that they must be taken into consiferation when selecting the right seal.
19 February 2010
A description of an experiment involving pumping sand-laden wastewater at a German sewage plant. The results; a rubberised pump won an endurance test against pumps made from conventional hard chromium-alloy cast iron, and pumps using ceramic coatings.
18 February 2010
Bryan Orchard discusses the use of tubular casing water feed pumps in KBS's Frankenthal plant, Germany.
18 February 2010
Sabine Sulzer of Sulzer Pumps and Markus Duss of Sulzer Chemtech discuss their solutions to carbon capture challenges, using Sulzer's experience of designing and manufacturing related proprietary equipment.
18 February 2010
A look at some of the functionality and benefits of variable speed drives and how the total life cycle cost of a VSD controlled pumping system can be reduced significantly.
18 February 2010
Chris Rowe discusses how recent developments, including the current downturn, could revolusionise how professional engineers find careers.
18 February 2010
In the first of two articles, Eduardo Larralde and Rafael Ocampo demonstrate the importance of matching centrifugal pump characteristics with the correct application in order to ensure optimal energy use and maximun life span.
09 February 2010
How care with bearing and seal technology can extend pump life and prevent premature system failure
09 February 2010
Valérie Bischof, Prof. Bernd Stoffel and
Prof. Peter Pelz of Technische Universität Darmstadt consider whether hydrodynamic interactions in pumping systems with multiple pumps can be harnessed to optimize the performance of the whole system.
03 February 2010
Trixy Schmidt and Dagmar Hierl discuss the advantages of the stainless steel series 67 air vane motor which meets the strict criteria for use in the preparation of paper with the added benefit of high performance density.
03 February 2010
This white paper provides a rationale for effective governmental renewable energy policies worldwide.
25 January 2010
James Hunt talks to one of the four manufacturers in the world able to supply very high-pressure wet stator motor boiler circulation pumps for sub- and super-critical boilers in large power generation plant.
21 January 2010
Bryan Orchard talks to UK pump manufacturer Amarinth about the valuable source of business the Middle East's oil, gas and petrochemical industries are providing pump companies with.
21 January 2010
A look at some of the design considerations and solutions which KSB has developed for cooling duties within the power generation, refining and petrochemical industries.
21 January 2010
With desalination playing an important role in the provision of water, this article looks at the chlorine-based disinfection systems developed by Grundfos.
21 January 2010
The importance of selecting the optimal configuration and drive option for condensate extraction pumps when designing a new power plant.
18 January 2010
A discussion on the selection of the optimized pump configuration and drive option for the boiler feed pumps to be installed at new power stations.
18 January 2010
How diamond sliding surface technology can benefit mechanical seal applications and improve pump performance.
18 January 2010
How the oil + gas and desalination sectors in the Middle East are heading towards a major growth after a slowdown over the past two years.
15 January 2010
An examination of the benefits of running pumps as turbines for an efficient method of generating power, recovering energy and contributing to savings.
14 January 2010
How using pumps with an adjustable pitch angle of propeller blades can lead to cost savings.
14 January 2010
The use of high-speed camera techniques to investigate fluid flows in multiphase pumps designed for process industry applications.
05 January 2010
A look at the code devised to classify the degrees of protection for an enclosure from dust, water and impacy.
21 December 2009
The different risks fluids present while being conveyed through open and closed water piplelines.
21 December 2009
How the factors which influence the flow behaviour in submersible mixers should help to improve the design of mixing ponds for sewage sludges.
21 December 2009
The effect of replacing stuffing box packed pumps with magnet drive types in a German bitumen plant.
21 December 2009
A description of the development of a seawater injection pump for a major Middle East oil producer.
21 December 2009
An examination of the various causes of cavitation in centrifugal pumps, describing the pattern of damage each inflicts and the different methods to prevent and cure them.
18 December 2009
A look at how the demands of a growing population in Eastern Asia is affecting the power generation market
18 December 2009
Increasing pump efficiency in nuclear power stations through ceramic coatings and renewal of origninal fits and tolerances.
10 December 2009
A look at the various pumps for steam generators in electrical power generation plants.
09 December 2009
Pump opportunities in the Middle East in the desalination and refinery markets.
08 December 2009
How to choose the most appropriate bearings, grease and re-lubrication equipment.
03 December 2009