Industrial Pump Optimization for Requirements
In broad terms, there are two pumping solutions for every task which means using either a kinetic pump or a displacement pump. Which will be selected will depend on the application of the specific hydraulic features of each pump as they apply to the requirements of the operation.
Where the delivery head is variable, displacement pumps will be required as they maintain their efficiency irrespective of the height to which they are pumping. Kinetic pumps, frequently centrifugal pumps, only deliver good performance efficiencies within a set of performance parameters and cannot be relied upon outside of them. Centrifugal pumps experience a rapid deterioration in efficiency when the delivery head is too low or too high which may lead to unrealistic constraints on the operational process itself resulting in inefficiencies and cost incurrence elsewhere in the system.
Similar considerations apply when viscosity of the pumped liquid is considered. Displacement pumps are usually recommended where there is medium viscosity which also varies yet flow remains constant because they are the most economical. Centrifugal pumps suffer from significant efficiency reductions beyond their optimal operational range and this leads again to high costs being incurred.
In short, where the operational flow and the mode of operating the industrial pump is subject to fluctuation, displacement pumps are considered the most effective solution.
Kinetic pumps, and especially centrifugal pumps are to be considered when flow and mode of operation are constant, or at least set within specific operational parameters within their efficient range. Where requirements do not fluctuate, cost savings can be made by using centrifugal pumping solutions because within their efficiency parameters, they are much more efficient than displacement pumps. Cost savings may also be found by making sure any pump operates close to its maximum efficiency point or range.
Irrespective of whether centrifugal or displacement pumps are utilized in a solution, performance losses should be assessed in order to ensure the industrial pumping solution is optimal given the dimensions. There should also be a thorough assessment of design calculations to minimize the risk of decreased efficiencies due to error or over-estimation of safety margins inherent in the design process which in turn will be reflected with decreased efficiencies, and therefore higher costs when in operation.
Tags: centrifugal pumps, displacement pumps, Industrial Pumps, kinetic pumps, Pumps