Developments in pump technology

Source:kingSlurryPump.com

Time:2023-09-04

It could be argued that the main developments in pump technology have been driven by an end user's application requirement (e.g. to be able to vary a pumps output) since Archimedes' time. This need was progressively met through the many changes to pump power/drive source as new technology became available and was adopted into the pump arena. The alternative to speed control was to throttle a valve or close a sluice gate. This however wastes energy across the restriction barrier to flow.

The need to vary pump performance within an installation experiencing changing system characteristic's, is not that new, the possibility to achieve this comprehensively however, is. Today improved motor and variable speed drive technology provide the solutions to varying load or demand patterns on pumping systems.

Whilst this has opened up new opportunities it has also brought new challenges. The main one ensuring that the latest technology is applied appropriately, therefore delivering the best results that add value to a system, i.e. Whole Life Cost or Totex.

A variable speed drive alone does not always guarantee optimal results in terms of efficiency, reliability or reactive maintenance. This can be apparent on some wastewater applications and systems with a high static head component to a duty point. Here a technology such as a Prerostal (perhaps with dual speed motors) will often deliver a better Whole Life Cost outcome.

The trend to better match pump performance to system requirements looks set to continue and probably intensify, particularly as we run out of options to improve product efficiency and look into the system to obtain further savings.

Having said that we must not lose sight of the fact that not all systems require infinite variability in pump performance and sometimes a belt drive, dual speed motor, fixed speed motor or even the halfway house of a Prerostal system may be the most appropriate Totex solution where fewer set-points of performance are required.

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