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JUNE 2014 ISSUE 2 • VOLUME 2
Horseshoe Media Ltd Marshall House 124 Middleton Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 6RW, UK www.fluidhandlingmag.com MANAGING DIRECTOR Peter Patterson Tel: +44(0)20 8648 7082 peter@horseshoemedia.com PUBLISHER & EDITOR Margaret Dunn Tel: +44 (0)20 8687 4126 margaret@tankstoragemag.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Keeley Downey Tel: +44 (0)20 8687 4183 keeley@horseshoemedia.com STAFF WRITER Daniel Traylen Tel: +44 (0)20 8687 4143 daniel@horseshoemedia.com ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Belinda Smart Tel: +44 (0)20 8648 7092 belinda@fluidhandlingmag.com PRODUCTION Alison Balmer Tel: +44 (0)1673 876143 alisonbalmer@btconnect.com SUBSCRIPTION RATES A one-year, 6-issue subscription costs £150 (approximately $240/€185 depending on daily exchange rates). Individual back issues can be purchased at a cost of £30 each Contact: Lisa Lee Tel: +44 (0)20 8687 4160 Fax: +44 (0)20 8687 4130 marketing@horseshoemedia.com
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ISSN 1750-841X
June 2014 l FLUID HANDLING 1
Tank overfill. In the best case, you have to clean up. In the worst case, you end up in court. Want to sleep well at night?
YOU CAN DO THAT Driving overfill prevention technology forward. Emerson’s new Rosemount Raptor tank gauging system lets you comply with the reworked overfill protection standard API 2350 (4th edition) for every type of storage tank. The Raptor system includes safety features like SIL certification and a unique radar with two independent gauges (level and overfill) in one housing. Learn more about Raptor and get the latest API 2350 overfill prevention guidance at www.rosemount-tg.com/safety
The Emerson logo is a trademark and a service mark of Emerson Electric Co. Š 2012 Emerson Electric Co.
NEWS Self-priming magnetic drive pumps from Michael Smith Engineers Michael Smith Engineers (MSE) has announced the availability of a series of magnetic drive, self-priming centrifugal pumps for use with corrosive liquids in demanding applications. The SP series of pumps consists of four models that provide maximum flow rates up to 45m3/hr and maximum differential to 37m. SP pumps combine deep lift capabilities (dry lift pumping up to 7.6m) and fast priming (5.5m in 90 seconds) with the important advantages of magnetic drive technology; no seals to replace and zero leakage, says the company.
Carbon bushing supplied with each pump means they can be run-dry for extended periods without damage, meaning no catastrophic pump failure in the event of a process upset. The SP Series incorporates neodymium batteries allowing them to pump fluids with high specific gravities up to 1.8, such as sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid and sodium and potassium hydroxide. Pumps are available in a choice of Polypropylene or PVDF, both resistant to corrosion. Maximum operating temperatures
Torque measurement device launched to prevent plant shutdown Smith Flow Control has launched a device that can be mounted to either a valve input handwheel or directly to the valve input shaft to safeguard the valve from excessive torque. The company says the TorkDrive is suitable for use at oil refineries, power plants, paper mills, water plants and chemical processing facilities. Its main functions are preventing valve damage, which could cause expensive plant shutdown and valve replacement and providing vital site maintenance requirement information. Set to a predetermined maximum torque, the device prevents the operator from applying excessive force when closing the valve, protecting the valve seat, and controls the torque applied when operating a valve, ensuring
that the same force is used regardless of the strength of the operator. Other features of the TorkDrive, made of 316 stainless steel, include its ability to withstand temperatures from -56°C to +100°C and a torque setting range from 80Nm – 500Nm. Two spring set configurations are available, a low range TorkDrive unit offering a maximum torque output range between 80Nm – 280Nm and a high range unit offering 250Nm-500Nm. The compact design weighs less than 4kg and requires no maintenance, says the company. The device comes complete with a tool for making fine adjustments and is supplied with bespoke adaptation to the host valve and its own operating handwheel/lever.
are 82°C for the polypropylene version and 104°C for the PVDF version. MSE says the pumps can be mounted to most standard motors, while NPT or BSP threads, adjustable flanges or union connections make it easy to connect to most process systems. Typical applications include sump emptying, transferring from underground storage tanks and tanker trucks, pumping in systems that are liable to have trapped or entrained air or in process systems where run-dry protection is needed.
Titan offers compact flowmeters for tricky applications Titan Enterprises, a flow measurement solutions firm with over 40 years’ experience, is offering a range of flowmeters for applications requiring an accurate, compact and lightweight device. The company says its Oval Gear (OG) flowmeters have recently been used in monitoring hydraulic fluids at the end of a robot arm, measuring sulphite spraying in a vineyard and for medical dosing. Based upon its OG2 flowmeter, Titan has produced an oval gear positive displacement unit, providing a pulse output over a flow range of from 0.03 to 4.0 litres per minute, using oval gears in PEEK and a lightweight aluminium CNC machined body. The company says whole unit weighs less than 100g, as required for use on a fast moving robot arm, but was capable of measuring oil flow to better than 0.5%. Titan produced a special thin walled stainless steel body, battery powered flow totaliser for the ‘vineyard’ application to provide accurate sulphite dosing to help control wine fermentation. Similar lightweight OG2 flowmeter systems have been supplied for medical dosing applications, according to the company.
Voith Hydro to supply pump equipment to Austria projects
The TorkDrive’s main functions include valve damage prevention and maintenance infoencountered by seal manufacturers
Voith Hydro, a supplier of hydroelectric equipment, has received new orders worth around €35 million to equip two pumped-storage plants in Austria. The company will supply energy provider Vorarlberger Illwerke with two pumps and a pump turbine for the Obervermuntwerk II and Rellswerk projects in Montafon,Vorarlberg. Voith Hydro will also assemble and commission two 170 MW storage pumps including the hydraulic torque converter for Obervermuntwerk II and a 13 MW, 3-stage pump turbine, complete with bearing oil supply system, for the new Rellswerk facility. June 2014 l FLUID HANDLING 3
Plexus Holdings agrees three-year tech supply contract Plexus Holdings, an oil and gas engineering services business, has agreed a new three-year contract with drilling and engineering company AGR Well Management. Under the contract, Plexus will supply both its standard pressure and High Temperature/ High Pressure (‘HPHT’) POS-GRIP wellhead technology and mudline services to AGR. Plexus has already received its first order under the new contract, worth an estimated £400,000 (€484, 379), to supply its 10,000psi POS-GRIP equipment for an exploration well in Guinea Bissau, West Africa. The technology will be used for oil and gas exploration activities, which AGR carries out on behalf of its oil and gas customers. This will reportedly be the first time that a POS-GRIP High Temperature annular seal, generally used in HPHT systems, is utilised in a standard pressure system.
News in Brief Crompton Greaves launches new energyefficient pumps Indian multinational Crompton Greaves has launched a new set of energy efficient pumps for residential, agricultural, commercial and industrial applications. The company says can be switched on and off remotely through a mobile phone call or text message using intelligent microchip technology.
New AKO air operated pinch valves revealed Technology and automation manufacturer Metso has been given a substantial order to be delivered to Saudi Aramco’s petroleum refining and petrochemical production complex currently under construction. The order includes a considerable range of Metso’s Neles rotary and globe valves and Jamesbury valves, including control, on/off and safety valves. It also includes the company’s intelligent safety solenoid technology and valve
controllers, which guarantee maximum process availability and safety while reducing overall operating costs. Delivery will be made to the petroleum refining and petrochemical production complex of Saudi Aramco, Saudi Arabian Oil Company, that will be substantially expanded. Saudi Aramco is in the process of diversifying its business from crude oil into chemicals, unconventional gas and renewable.
Metallized Carbon announces new product breakthrough Metallized Carbon, a global manufacturer of oilfree, self-lubricating, carbon-graphite materials for severe service lubrication applications, has announced the availability of mechanical seal primary rings for sealing refrigerants and other low viscosity liquids. Low viscosity liquids such as Freon refrigerants, liquid oxygen, liquid carbon dioxide, propane, ethylene, and acetone are now being successfully sealed using mechanical seals with Metcar Grade M-444, antimony
impregnated, carbon-graphite primary seal rings. Designing mechanical seals for sealing refrigerants and other low viscosity liquids has been a difficult problem for seal manufactures for many years, according to the company. It adds that it has now been established that mechanical seals with antimony impregnated, carbon-graphite primary rings and solid silicon carbide counter face rings can solve this problem.
CB&I wins pipe fabrication contract with Dow CB&I, a Texas-based energy infrastructure firm, has announced it will be supplying pipe fabrication for the Dow Chemical US Gulf Coast investment programme. The contract includes pipes for four new polyethylene plants in Louisiana and Texas and a new propylene and ethylene production unit in Texas. Both products are used in making chemicals. The value of the contracts has not been disclosed. In 2013, CB&I acquired Baton Rouge-based Shaw Group for $3 billion (€2.2 billion).
Nordson EFD spray valve system enables precision application Fluid dispensing systems manufacturer Nordson EFD is offering a spray enabling precise application of oils, grease, and other medium-viscosity liquids for a variety of industry processes. The 781S spray valve system uses low-volume, low-pressure technology to accurately apply a fine, uniform coating of material without waste, mess or overspray, says the company. The valve is designed for maximum control during application, with a combination of adjustable fluid-flow, nozzle air and post-air cut-off.The company also says elimination of overdeposits can reduce wastage by 50% or more. Industries including electronics, automotive, cosmetics, and medical all involve manufacturing processes that require precise fluid application, and the 781S has been designed with these in mind.
MCC says its new products can solve refrigerant-sealing problems encountered by seal manufacturers
KSB launches zero-leakage refinery pump for chemical applications Pump and valve manufacturer KSB has launched a zero-leakage mag-drive pump series in back-pull out design for primary use with hazardous chemicals. The horizontal, radially split volute casing, designed to US standard API 685, has been developed to reduce maintenance costs and ensure a maximum service life by combining a proven RPH hydraulic system with a new magnetic drive.
The pumps are primarily used for handling harmful fluids such as hydrocarbons containing benzene which are subject to very strict emission regulations. They are also well-suited for the transport of clean, explosive, toxic and valuable fluids in petrochemical plants and refineries, according to the company. Depending on requirements concerning eddy current loss and efficiency, various
material options for containment shrouds are available. The type series is designed for flow rates of up to 300m³/h and a maximum head of 270m. The permissible operating temperature ranges from -40 °C to +300 °C. KSB has also cooperated with sealing technology provider EagleBurgmann to develop magnetic couplings for the pump which seal the shaft.
New internal leak detector launched by Italian manufacturer
Semperit invests in hose production expansion
Biffi Italia, a manufacturer of valve actuators, has announced the launch of its latest electronic pipeline monitoring system for leak detection in high and low pressure environments including liquid and gas pipelines. Part of the company’s range of internal leak detectors, ELBS-20, the company says, was designed to monitor the integrity of gas and
Austrian industrial product manufacturer Semperit plans to invest around €10 million ($13.6 million) in a hose production expansion project at its Semperflex Optimit plant in the Czech Republic. The project is already underway and, when completed, is planned to increase production capacity by 30% by the Q2 2015, the company says. No further details on the project have been disclosed.
Biffi Italia’s new ELBS-20 pipeline monitoring system
fluid pipelines and can be used in conjunction with any type of valve actuator and a range of pressure sensors. The unit monitors the pipeline pressure and is designed to command the actuators to initiate the fail safe position in case of failure. The ELBS-20 module measures safety parameters including pressure increase, decrease and sudden drop, as well as low and high limit exceeded levels. Recorded data can be downloaded to portable electronic devices though a number of communication ports, including Bluetooth, RS485 point-to-point and RS232 interfaces. The device also contains an SOV integrity check function, which monitors system availability at all times. Based on Biffi’s ELBS-10 range, the ELBS-20 offers additional features including a single cabinet for batteries and electronics and an integrated external power supply module. Capable of operating in temperatures from -40° C to 75° C, the new unit is now also able to manage pressures from 10 to 1000 bar, according to the company.
Pipe and tube group enters Brazilian market The Van Leeuwen Pipe and Tube Group has acquired Tubexpress, a Brazilian distribution company which supplies pipes and tubes to the petrochemical and oil and gas industry. Tubexpress, founded in 1990, is a stock holding distributor offering products according to ISO 9000 standards. The company has two branches in Osasco and São Carlos, both in the state of São Paulo, and employs around 65 people. Founder and present MD Mario Zupo, will transfer his day-to-day responsibilities but remain closely involved for the next two years. Peter Rietberg, chairman of the board at the Van Leeuwen Group says: ‘This takeover follows our recent expansion of activities in Africa, Asia, and the US.’
Semperit says it is benefitting from global growth in sectors including mechanical engineering and mining despite a weak market environment. The Austrian producer of rubber and plastics products adds that an ongoing demand for construction and agriculture machinery has put its Semperflex segment in ‘a strong market position’ for its hydraulic and industrial hoses.
BelGAS introduces explosionproof two-wire transmitter The BelGAS division of Marsh Bellofram, a member of the Bellofram Group, has introduced a new, explosion-proof two-wire pressure transmitter, expressly designed for industrial field service. Designed for maximum durability, the Marsh Bellofram BelGAS Type 5000 P/I transducer is a two-wire device that converts a signal pressure input into a 4-20 mA or 10-50 mA output. According to the company, the Type 5000 pressure transmitter uses a unique temperature-compensated piezoresistive transducer suitable for gauge pressure measurement of non-corrosive liquids and gases. Available in six pressure measurement ranges from 0–15 psig (0–1.0 bar) to 0–100 psig (0–6.9 bar), the transducer features typical accuracy of ±0.1% of span, and is relatively insensitive to mounting orientation and ordinary industrial vibration. The Type 5000 can withstand overpressures to 45 psig without calibration shift and overpressures to 60 psig without failure and its operating temperature range is from –40°C to 82°C. Operating from a 12–30 VDC power supply, the transmitter has a response time of <10 milliseconds. Other features include lightweight NEMA 4X-rated housing, a 1/4 NPT pressure port and a 1/2 NPT conduit port for field wiring. The Type 5000 is CE listed and FM-approved NEMA 4X Explosionproof to Class I, Division 1 Groups B, C, and D T6 and Dust-Ignition Proof to Classes II and III, Division 1, Groups E, F and G, T6. It also carries CSA Hazardous Locations approval to Class I, Groups B, C and D; Class II, Groups E, F, and G; and Class III. BelGAS says the transducer is ideal for industrial field service in oil and gas, chemical processing, pharmaceutical, industrial automation, and power generation applications.
Wartsila signs pump package contract for new North Sea FSU Marine and oil & gas industry provider Wartsila has signed a contract with Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) to supply a range of pumping solutions for a new Floating Storage Unit (FSU) which will operate on the Mariner oilfield in the North Sea. SHI will build the unit in South Korea on behalf of Norway-based energy firm Statoil.
Delivery of Wartsila’s equipment is due for spring 2015, with operations at the FSU expected to commence in 2017. The equipment includes 45 deepwell process and cargo offloading pumps with electric motors and Variable Speed Drive (VSD) panels, three fire water pump skids, and two ballast pumps. The complete
pumping packages have been customdesigned to meet specific reliability and efficiency requirements. Mariner field is the largest offshore development in UK waters, estimated to produce an average of 55,000 barrels of oil per day. The new FSU will have a capacity of 850,000 barrels.
Euroflo pumps support into Wheelwash systems
OW Bunker takes mass flowmeter to Rotterdam
Specialist pump supplier Euroflo Fluid Handling is working with Wheelwash by incorporating its products within the latter company’s systems for heavy vehicle and wheel washing requirements. Two pumps are supplied for the self-contained and re-locatable Rhino units; one being a 22kW Aquafit 80 x 65 x 200B end suction pump, feeding spray bars at a constant 5 bar pressure. The second is a Grindex Salvador sludge pump
OW Bunker is continuing to roll out its flow measurement technology across its global bunker fleet. The company has announced it recently installed a Coriolis flowmeter on a refuelling barge in Rotterdam. OW Bunker is the first independent physical fuel distributor to use the technology when supplying customers in the region. Reports say the Coriolis flowmeter has been installed
responsible for returning dirty wash water back to the storage tank for recycling. Euroflo says that, when fully operational, some 1,500l/min can be circulated through the system. The Powerwash total vehicle cleaning system also incorporates a 22kW Aquafit 80 x 65 x 200B end suction pump, and Spraywash, a vehicle wheel and under-body cleaning system, utilises a Grindex Master ‘H’ submersible drainage pump for spray bar operations as well.
on the bunker barge Valsinni, a barge with a tank capacity of 3.15 tonnes and supplies customers with low sulphur fuel oil (LSFO) at a rate of up to 600 tonnes per hour. Following a testing period, the Valsinni will be the only supplier controlled barge in Rotterdam equipped with the technology to measure the quantity of fuel supplied to a receiving vessel. The company’s first supply of the technology was in Singapore last June.
Morgan increasing productivity with new major investment Morgan Advanced Materials, a designer and manufacturer of ultrasonic sensors, has made a major investment in a new dedicated assembly cell at its manufacturing facility in Southampton, UK to further increase production of flow sensor assemblies for use in heat, gas and water metering applications. The new investment follows increased global customer demand for state-of-theart residential metering products. Morgan offers a range of high-sensitivity and high temperature stability ultrasonic flow sensors, utilising its PZT materials. The company is also able to customise sensors, offering the capability to produce unique products for individual customers to provide distinctive advantages in the market place. Furthermore, it is also able to provide custom PZT shapes and bespoke sub-assembly solutions for a variety of metering applications. A statement from the company says the investment allows specialist engineers in the business to accommodate a range of requirements, adapting the architecture and manufacturing process to meet customers’ individual needs.
CPI’s pipes will undergo months of testing and production
CPI wins pipe supply contract with BP Composite Pipes Industry (CPI), a manufacturer of glass fibre reinforced plastic (GRP) pipes, has won a contract worth $5 million (€3.6 million) for the supply of pipes and fittings for a 62 kmlong pipeline for British oil giant BP. The company says the corrosionresistant pipes, to be used on the pipeline in BP’s Khazzan field
development in Oman, are cost-effective and do not require maintenance and repair. They can also handle high pressure for flow lines and sour applications. A company source was quoted saying the contract was awarded in September last year and it takes seven months for qualification testing and production.
UK valve firm secures major overseas contract Bestobell Valves has secured an order with China’s Hudong Zhonghua shipyard to supply valves for six liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers. The contract is the latest in a series from the shipyard for the UK-based President Engineering Group subsidiary’s cryogenic valves. When completed in 2015, the LNG carriers will be used by Sinopec, the China Shipping Group and Japanese shipping group MOL, to ship coal bed LNG from the Gladstone field in Australia back to China. They will be the largest LNGC vessels to be built at Hudong shipyard and are due for delivery from 2015 through to 2017. Bestobell Valves has been a manufacturer of cryogenic valves for 50 years. With this new order the company will have secured contracts for the ten most recent vessels to be constructed at Hudong shipyard.
Bestobell will supply valves for LNG carriers at China’s Hudong shipyard
Metso announces valve contract with Saudi Aramco Technology and automation manufacturer Metso has been given a substantial order to be delivered to Saudi Aramco’s petroleum refining and petrochemical production complex currently under construction. The order includes a considerable range of Metso’s Neles rotary and globe valves and Jamesbury valves, including control, on/off and safety valves. It also includes the company’s intelligent safety solenoid technology and valve
controllers, which guarantee maximum process availability and safety while reducing overall operating costs. Delivery will be made to the petroleum refining and petrochemical production complex of Saudi Aramco, Saudi Arabian Oil Company, that will be substantially expanded. Saudi Aramco is in the process of diversifying its business from crude oil into chemicals, unconventional gas and renewables.
Plexus Holdings agrees three-year tech supply contract Plexus Holdings, an oil and gas engineering services business, has agreed a new threeyear contract with drilling and engineering company AGR Well Management. Under the contract, Plexus will supply both its standard pressure and High Temperature/ High Pressure (‘HPHT’) POS-GRIP wellhead technology and mudline services to AGR. Plexus has already received its first order under the new contract, worth an estimated
£400,000 (€484,379), to supply its 10,000psi POS-GRIP equipment for an exploration well in Guinea Bissau, West Africa. The technology will be used for oil and gas exploration activities, which AGR carries out on behalf of its oil and gas customers. This will reportedly be the first time that a POS-GRIP High Temperature annular seal, generally used in HPHT systems, is utilised in a standard pressure system.
Oilfield gear added to Industrial Surplus World inventory Industrial Surplus World now specialises in the engineering and manufacturing of oilfield drilling equipment, valves, and rig packages. The company recently announced a purchase plan for a full line of drilling and oil well servicing equipment such as servicing rigs, valves, land rigs, draw works, pumps and more oilfield equipment required for drilling or work over operations. The plan includes buying 30” G4’s and 30” G9 valves for its 2014 inventory as topsides of fixed and floating offshore structures.
Metso secures automation and valve-tech deal with Neste Oil Neste Oil and Metso have agreed on the delivery of automation and valve technology for the refinery unit under construction at Neste Oil’s Porvoo refinery. Metso’s technology helps the company with its targets to increase the output of high-octane gasoline and to improve flexibility in production. Construction started in 2013, and the unit is due to come onstream in spring 2015. The delivery includes a DNA automation system, a safety system, and links to Neste Oil’s existing systems, as well as automated on-off and emergency shutdown (ESD) valves. Also, project engineering, installation, commissioning and training will be provided by Metso. The scalable DNA automation and information system covers monitoring, process controls of the continuous and batch processes and links to external systems. Additionally, the system features a seamlessly integrated, SIL3 approved safety system. Automated on-off and ESD valves included in Metso’s delivery are for the batch process. Most of them are Neles X series valves equipped with Neles SwitchGuard valve controllers. Metso’s technologies are used at Neste Oil’s plants in Finland, Rotterdam and Singapore.
Emerson introduces new meter for demanding processes Emerson Process Management has released a direct insertion density and concentration meter designed for aggressive applications. The Micro Motion Fork Density Meter is the next generation of the Micro Motion 7826 and 7828 direct insertion density meters. Incorporating the same tuning fork design as its predecessors, the Fork Density Meter is built to tackle process applications such as pipeline interface detection, mineral slurry solids monitoring and corrosive acid concentration control. The meter incorporates a hazardous
area head-mounted transmitter that has the flexibility to digitally connect to distributed control systems (DCS) as well as output raw sensor signals to signal converters and flow computers. With the implementation of HART and RS485 Modbus digital I/O communications, the meter has the capability to accept external signals from other field instrumentation such as temperature, pressure and volumetric flow devices. The input of these external measurements enables it to calculate and output enhanced
CDR Pumps offers baseplate for corrosive chemical pumps CDR Pumps, a chemical process pump manufacturer, has added a polymer concrete baseplate to its range of pumps for the corrosive chemical industry. The epoxy resin-based concrete offers corrosion resistance to the harshest of atmospheres, a flat surface to ensure optimum pump and motor alignment, and reduced vibration. Units are moulded with an integral drip pan, come complete with grouting hole and can be stilt-mounted to avoid surface preparation and grouting.
New risers for industrial reels available from Coxreels Coxreels, a US manufacturer of industrial grade hose, cord and cable reels, has announced a new, re-engineered outlet riser on an existing series of its reels. Both the 1175 and 1185 Series reels have been enhanced and now come equipped with a remodelled low profile outlet riser offering improved full-flow characteristics. The riser replaces the machined flange riser and o-ring flange seal for maximum full-flow fluid path. This, along with the open drum slot design, also allows for a non-crimping, flat smooth hose wrap. These series of reels feature a one-piece all welded ‘A’ frame base for maximum stability, handle 1” and 1-1/2” hose ID and are ideal for high-flow watering and high volume fluid delivery applications.
process measurements such as mass flow and net solids flow, while still minimising installation and cabling costs. Also incorporated is a new diagnostic capability called Known Density Verification that checks the meter for measurement alarm conditions, sensor integrity and the presence of coating, erosion or corrosion. This new technology expands the availability of diagnostics information in critical density measurement applications, resulting in significant reductions in maintenance costs and cycle times.
TXO closes agreement on valve tech JV TXO has acquired a 30% stake in a new joint venture in oil recovery technology for $74,250 cash (€54,083). Oil Tech Royalties (OTR), owns intellectual property rights to a new valve technology – a proprietary acoustic flow reactor valve (RAP) – that disperses heavy oil and diesel.The JV is to commercially promote the technology in specific regions across the globe. According to a third-party technology report, the RAP is capable of changing the aggregate state of matter such as heavy crude oil and diesel by changing the dissolution, diffusion and crystallisation speeds in treatment so as to disperse and emulsify the oil. It is currently being commercialised in South America, with installations in a power generation plant and in the operations of a heavy oil field.
TXO says the technology is also under extensive tests with several operators of heavy oil fields and major power producers. As part of the joint venture set up, OTR will buy one of the new RAP valves and have an option over the economic ownership of 19 more. The company will also seek to commercialise the technology in the Middle East, the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and the Bahamas. An RAP is being shipped to the Bahamas for use by Morgan Oil Marine (MOM), a subsidiary of TXO associate Grand Bahama Group, where it will be integrated into the second and third phase development of MOM’s planned hydrocarbon recovery plant at Freeport, Grand Bahamas.
New pump line from Wastecorp Pumps available Wastecorp Pumps, a North American manufacturer of sewage treatment pumps, has launched a new product line of double disc pumps. The Sludge Pro is designed to operate virtually leak-free and requires no regular maintenance. Both single and double disc pump models are available with fluid handling capabilities up to 300 GPM. 3”, 4” and 6” connection sizes are available with maximum discharge head up to 80 psi.
GHX subsidiary acquires California firm Alternative Hose Abilene, Texas-based McCarty Equipment Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Houston-based GHX Industrial and The United Distribution Group, has acquired the assets and operations of the Bakersfield, California location of Alternative Hose. The location has been operating for 7 years, focusing primarily on the upstream business. Alternative carries a number of world-class
brands including Gates, Kuriyama, NRP Jones and Dixon Valve. Oilfield service companies, the agriculture industry and power generation companies have traditionally made up the firm’s core customer base. The branch management, sales and production staff of Alternative will remain with the company after the acquisition. Founded in 1976, McCarty Equipment operates 24 locations throughout the US and
Canada and provides fluid sealing (gaskets), fluid transfer (hoses), valves and other products to the upstream oil and gas industry. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, GHX Industrial provides fluid sealing (gaskets), fluid transfer (hoses) and other products to a variety of industries, particularly the refining and petrochemical, upstream oil and gas, OEM, power generation, marine, and mining and agriculture segments.
Compact turbine pumps from Pump Engineering When pumping applications present the challenges of low flows at high pressures, very low NPSH for high temperatures or low vapour pressure liquids, a new pump range from Pump Engineering could be an ideal tool for efficiency. The MTH range of pumps is designed for applications such as boiler feed, high pressure cooling, refrigeration and CIP process. These compact pumps, which are available in direct drive, bareshaft, magnetic drive and canned rotor options, can replace multistage pumps, generating high heads in only a single stage. This design allows the pump to handle hot liquids, refrigerants, liquefied gases and liquids with entrained air, for example gas dissolution systems, where the pump will selfvent carrying air bubbles with the fluid to the discharge port. The regenerative turbine pump is characterised by its impeller, which has a large number of blades machined into both sides of its periphery. Fluid enters the impeller at its outside diameter and is accelerated as it passes from blade to blade exiting the pump, at the same radius as the inlet. The row of blades located on each side of the impeller minimises axial thrust; in effect, it is two
Pump Engineering’s MTH range can be used for a wide variety of applications
impellers in one, operating within identical channels on the casing and the cover which allows the impeller to float freely and find its own equilibrium. MTH pumps are designed with the ability to generate a very steeply rising head curve between minimum and maximum flow
ensuring accurate flow control and very stable operation. The standard range of MTH pumps includes models which cover capacities from 1 to 500l/ min and pressures up to 70bar. Construction materials include iron, bronze and 316 stainless steel.
Titan launches ruggedised flowmeter for low flow fluids Titan Enterprises has announced a new ruggedised flowmeter for metering low flow fluids, such as viscous hydraulic oils used in heavy machinery, at pressures of up to 700 bar and temperatures up to 150°C. Manufactured in durable 316 stainless steel, the compact Titan 700 bar OG2 Special flowmeter is an IP67 / NEMA 4 compliant version of its OG2 flowmeter. With a standard flow range from 0.03 to 4.0l per minute on 30Cstk oil the new flowmeter is able to routinely achieve accuracy (0.5%) and
repeatability (0.1%). Beneficially, measurement accuracy of OG flowmeters improves as the liquid viscosity increases, from a nominal one per cent to around 0.1% of flow rate at higher viscosities. In the OG2 Special flowmeter, oval shaped gear-toothed rotors (manufactured in carbon filled PEEK) rotate within a chamber of specified geometry. As these rotors turn, they sweep out and trap a volume of fluid between the outer oval shape of the gears and the inner chamber walls with none of the fluid actually passing
through the gear teeth. Ceramic magnets are embedded in the rotors which then actuate a reed switch to provide a pulse output. Each pulse or switch closure then represents a precise increment of liquid volume that passes through the meter.The result is accurate flow measurement almost immune from the effects of varying fluid viscosity, density and temperature. The combination of durable materials, robust design and proven technology ensures a long product life with reliable, accurate operation throughout.
High-temperature collars and couplings from Stafford Manufacturing
New valve booster design from Samson Controls
Stafford Manufacturing has introduced a line of shaft collars and couplings designed for use in conveyors, furnaces, ovens, oil and gas, and other process environments with temperatures up to 1,650°F. Stafford high-temperature shaft collars are offered in one-piece, two-piece, hinged, and flanged designs and the rigid clamp-type couplings come in a wide range of configurations including one-, two- and three-piece, stepped bore, and dual-keyed styles for unsupported shafts. They can be machined from Type 330 stainless steel for applications up to
Valve specialist Samson Controls has launched a new design of valve booster to eliminate time-consuming trial and error procedures associated with fine tuning of control valves. As a result of its bypass restriction, the booster can be accurately adjusted and then lead-sealed in this set-up ensuring valuable time saved, whilst also minimising potential start-up problems. The pressure-balanced booster provides a stable output, even under fluctuating pressure conditions. The signal pressure is transmitted with a defined hysteresis, without loss (gain 1:1), and emits minimal noise. Another important benefit is that only the booster’s functional parts come into contact with instrument air, while the booster’s exhaust air port can be protected from the weather or other environmental factors. When used in combination with a positioner the booster allows control valves with large pneumatic actuators to be controlled quickly and precisely, even in applications with high flow rates or significant pressure drops.
1,650°F, Inconel, Hastelloy C-276, and other customer-specified alloys. Suitable for a wide range of applications in high-heat environments, the shaft collars are offered with bore sizes from 1/2” up to 4” ID and can be modified with special hexagonal, square, or threaded bores and mounting holes on the face or OD applications include drive systems, agitation equipment, and structural components. Stafford high-temperature shaft collars are priced according to material, configuration, and quantity.
MARKET ANALYSIS
Fluid handling industry M&A activity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2013 review and 2014 outlook As shown in the below graph the M&A activity in the industry slowed somewhat in 2013 versus 2012 with 45 transactions compared to 49 transactions in 2012. However, the anomaly in this comparison is that a number of transactions were pulled forward into Q4 2012 due to the pending change in the US capital gains tax rate from 15% to 20% that was effective 1 January 2013. Setting aside the impact of that outside force the deal activity trend line is showing a modest increase in transaction activity over the last three years.
There was a noticeable increase in Australia as a targeted geography in 2013, which is likely to continue to be a targeted area going forward due to their upstream oil and gas and mineral processing industries.
Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
The reduced deal activity in 2013 was primarily in the number of transactions involving distribution and service businesses while we saw an uptick in transactions that were focused on the water end market sector.
Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
10 FLUID HANDLING l June 2014
Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
The median industry transaction multiple (total value/EBITDA) was 9.2. A breakdown by transaction size is shown below. Generally the transaction multiples in the industry lagged the overall M&A market and the middle market multiples which both had a median EBITDA of 11.2 for the trailing 12 months ending September 2013. There were 10 companies who did multiple acquisitions in 2013 and they accounted for over 50% of the total industry activity. As shown in the below table five of the acquiring companies are US-based, four are based in Europe and one in Japan. Of the 10 companies nine are strategic buyers and only one is a private equity firm. However it was a private equity firm, KKR, which made the largest
MARKET ANALYSIS FHI acquisitions by private equity firms in 2013
Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
Industry outlook – 2014 Based on the guidance provided so far by industry companies the outlook can be described as modest revenue growth (mid-single digits) with low double-digit growth in EPS.
Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
acquisition in the industry in 2013 when they took private the previously publicly traded Gardner Denver in a transactions valued at $3.9 billion (€2.8 billion). The five largest industry transactions are shown below. Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
Growth drivers include: • Generally favourable worldwide economic conditions - US economic growth continuing - Positive growth in Europe - Continuing growth in the emerging markets
Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
The role of private equity in the industry has been minimal the last three years, however the activity did increase in 2013 and we expect to see more activity from private equity in the industry going forward as these firms make add-on acquisitions to the platform businesses shown above.
• Positive conditions in major industry sectors - Strong international project activity in worldwide oil & gas sector - Continued strong project activity in US chemical and petrochemical sector - Improvement in worldwide residential and commercial construction. Factors mentioned by industry companies as headwinds include: • Continued weakness in the mining sector • Low commodity pricing causing weakness in US agriculture sector • Uncertainty of timing for water infrastructure projects worldwide • Uncertainty in the US regarding health care, government spending and regulations M&A outlook – 2014 The general outlook for M&A activity in 2014 is positive. • M&A fundamentals are strong - Strategic and PE buyers have high levels of cash available - Debt cost and availability are favourable
Source: Company announcements, SEC filings and Global Equity Consulting analysis
June 2014 l FLUID HANDLING 11
PAGE HEADING • Worldwide macroeconomic factors are generally favourable • Pent-up demand is seeking equilibrium - Deal activity strengthened in the second half of 2013 and the momentum is expected to carry into 20141 - Aging population and increasing deal multiples may bring supply and demand more into balance - 41% of executives expect to pursue an acquisition over the next year vs. 23% a year ago.2 The factors driving FHI M&A activity in 2014 will include supplementing single digit organic growth and reacting to evolving end-use customer wants and needs. These evolving wants and needs include outsourcing of services and a trend toward predictive maintenance which is likely to drive suppliers toward providing more bundled capabilities at both the original equipment and aftermarket levels. End-use customers are also looking for continuous improvement in their return on assets so they look for ways to reduce their MRO inventories without jeopardising their plant operations. This is likely to cause manufacturers to look for ways to provide short lead-times for make-to-order aftermarket components. The other end-use customer want that we see will be gaining traction going forward will be to enhance the energy efficiency of their fluid handling systems. Much work has been done to improve the reliability of the systems over the last twenty years but it would seem the factors are now coming into place to also drive improvement is system efficiency. Certain new product, and possibly system, efficiencies are being mandated by governments in the US and Europe. This could drive some M&A activity to acquire products that meet the new standards as well to acquire the ability to provide upgrades to enhance the energy efficiency of existing fluid handling systems. The industry M&A activity in 2011 and 2012 was primarily focused on
businesses that provided products and/or services to the oil & gas sector. 2013 saw a shift to include businesses focused on the water sector. For 2014 the industry should expect: • Continued interest in the water sector in areas such as: equipment rental, water management and evolving water treatment technologies. • A growing focus on acquiring the missing pieces necessary to provide end-use customers with systems vs. products and the ability to provide predictive aftermarket service for those systems. • A rejuvenation of interest in acquiring companies who have the ability to supply short lead-time make-to-order MRO components. • A growing interest in acquiring products and services that help end-use customers improve the energy efficiency of existing systems as well as meet the mandated requirements for new products and systems. In summary, in 2014 the industry is likely to continue to leverage mid-single digit top-line growth into double digit earnings growth. A growing appetite for acquisitions will supplement organic growth as well as extend companies’ capabilities to react to the evolving end-use customer needs and wants. For more information: This article was written by Thomas E. Haan, principal of Global Equity Consulting and an operating director for City Capital Advisors, (+1) 269 385 5186, Thaan@ GlobalEquityConsulting.net
References: 1 PwC news release 11 Dec 2013 2 EY news release 9 Dec 2013
InCon InspectionConsultants
Inspection Consultants (InCon) Ltd offers:
Inspection Consultants (InCon) Ltd is a specialist NDT inspection company providing in service and out of service storage tank inspections in compliance with current codes and standards. To complement our inspection services, InCon is able to offer full engineering assessment of storage tanks to meet the guidelines laid down by EEMUA 159 and API 653 including “fitness for purpose” reports, RBI (Risk based Inspection) assessment and inspection scheduling reports.
To discuss your requirements contact: Steve Delves Tel: +44 (0) 1472 488101 Mob: +44 (0)7725 261 393 Email: stevedelves@incon.co.uk Neil Edge Tel: +44 (0)151 3572212 Mob: +44 (0)7736926750 Email: neil@incon.co.uk
• Storage Tank Integrity Assessment to EEMUA 159 & API 653 • Storage Tank Floor Inspection using the Floormap VS2i MFL Scanner in both Mapping and Manual mode • Storage tank shell survey using the Scorpion Dry Probe UT Crawler • Stainless Steel and Aluminium storage tank shell survey using a Dry Probe UT Scanner on extendible poles negating the requirement for scaffolding around the tank • Dye Penetrant Inspection (DPI) • Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) • Pipeline Integrity Inspection to API 570 • Digital Radiography of pipelines through lagging/insulation • Digital Radiography of PTFE/FRP pipelines • Phased Array Inspection of pipelines, welds, and mapping of corrosion areas • Tubular Inspection using the Olympus MultiScan MS5800 (ECT, IRIS & RFT, NFT, MFL) • Positive Material Identification (PMI) • Remote Video Inspection (RVI) • Bespoke Weld Procedures & Welder Qualifications • Mobile Radiographic Services.
HOSES
Transfer line failure:
use of passive shutdown systems When incompatible parts are used together and hoses come loose from their fittings, the result can be devastating on workers and the surrounding environment. Add a confined space to the mix and it can become fatal. An end blowing off causes the remaining portion of the hose to ‘whip’ about until flow stops and allows the medium being conveyed through the hose to escape. If the medium is a gas, its expansion can cause this to be extreme. Where the medium is a liquid it can be hot or corrosive, leading to further risks. The mediums being carried in them are often hot and flammable. Failures can result in injuries such as oil injection, burning, fire. There’s also the environmental damage from the escaping medium. Whipping hoses can cause serious injury or death. Since the landmark incident in Sanford, North Carolina, to the more recent tragedy in Riverview, Michigan, reliance upon excess flow valve technology to stop the potentially catastrophic consequences of hose and line failure has been eroding. Through legislation requiring ‘passive device’ technology to formal warnings against this reliance issued by all of the major regulatory agencies in the US, to special permits that provide regulatory relief for users of passive device technologies, a growing trend has commenced toward eliminating this over-reliance upon excess flow valves in the event of transfer line failure.
Sanford incident For more than a decade, safety concerns have been proliferating throughout industry, none more so than in the LPG industry. Incidents have spawned greater concern over ‘weak links’ in the safety chain of LPG transfer systems, causing countless millions of dollars and claiming many lives. On 8 September 1996, in Sanford, North Carolina, during delivery of propane to a bulk storage facility by an MC 331 bulk transport, more than 35,000 gallons of propane were released. The discharge hose separated from its hose coupling at the delivery end of the hose. Most of the transport’s 9,800 gallons of propane and more than 30,000 gallons from the storage tanks were released. If
this quantity of released propane ignited, local authorities estimated that about 125 emergency response personnel could have been injured or killed. This incident along with others pointed to a fundamental flaw in the fluid transfer system— over-reliance on the excess flow valve. This recognition spawned a landmark rulemaking issued by the US DOT-RSPA in which they declared formally that excess flow valves are not reliable to address hose failures, and new technology must be identified and developed to provide a greater degree of safety and reliability. The new technology included the term ‘passive technology’ which was defined as: ‘Shutdown equipment that has the capability to shut off the flow of product without human intervention within 20 seconds of an unintentional release caused by complete separation of a delivery hose.’ This definition changed the safety landscape, and the rulemaking marked the first of several important steps that have since been taken
to require alternative means to address the consequences of transfer line failure by relying upon systems other than excess flow valves.
Rulemaking HM-225 and 49 CFR 173.315 Regulation HM-225A, in effect since July 1, 1999, imposed new requirements on operators of cargo tanks used to transport liquefied compressed gases and new procedures for unloading liquefied compressed gases from cargo tanks. The regulation seeks to prevent unintentional releases during unloading of liquefied compressed gases, assure prompt identification of unintentional releases and reduce the consequences of unintentional releases. Specific provisions include: • Inspection, maintenance and testing requirements for cargo tank discharge systems. • Unloading requirements for liquefied compressed gases, including revised A chlorine repacking plant receives 4 railcars contained nearly 250,000 lbs of chlorine to be repacked into cylinders and other distribution. After 59 days, a hose wrongfully identified as a chlorine hose catastrophically failed spilling 48,000 pounds of Chlorine over 3 ½ hours. The root cause in addition to the hose failure, is that backup systems (ESD’S) as well as excess flow valves (EFV’s) failed to work
June 2014 l FLUID HANDLING 13
attendance requirements. • Requirements for emergency discharge control equipment, such as passive systems that will shut down unloading without human intervention and remote control devices that enable an attendant to stop the unloading process at a distance from the vehicle. The requirements for emergency discharge control equipment on cargo tanks used to transport liquefied compressed gases are keyed to the degree of risk associated with the transportation of specific liquefied compressed gases. Regulation 49 CFR 173.315 specifies two types of emergency discharge control equipment. One type, passive shutdown equipment, must shut off the flow of product without human intervention within 20 seconds of an unintentional release caused by complete separation of a delivery hose. This landmark legislation marked the first time that any regulatory body not only identified the risks associated with excess flow valve reliance, but further regulated against their use in lieu of other technology. Since this regulation went into effect in 1999, several systems have been developed, and no recorded incidents have occurred.
Pressure monitoring systems Various systems have been devised which are intended to close shutoff valves along the length of a flexible hose based upon a drop
in monitored pressure when the hose breaks. Pressure monitoring systems for automatically closing the ends of a flexible hose have various reliability concerns. Near the completion of the unloading operation when the liquid level gets low in the tank, the sucking action at the pump inlet creates a vortex or whirlpool effect in the liquid, causing vapor to enter the pump in a random fashion. The entry of shots of vapor causes pump cavitation-like pressure spikes and drops which will shut-in a device that is triggered by the outlet pressure dropping below a given level. The device could be overridden manually when the tank is near empty to prevent the premature trip of the shutoff device. A separate problem, however, involves determining when the tank is near empty since the unloading time is a function of pressure and pump condition, and typically lasts for over 30 minutes. Even if one could determine when to engage and override, this creates a situation where the operator could override the device at will and defeat the purpose of a system that automatically closes off the ends of the hose.
Passive shutdown systems Given the numerous, detailed and accurate warnings from manufacturers, advocacy groups, government agencies and from accidents themselves, it is not reasonable for anyone to be surprised when the next hose bursts and an EFV fails to stop the
catastrophic consequences. These warnings are advice to beware to professionals charged with the safety of facilities, communities and individuals, and are intended to be actionable. The passive device addresses directly the deficiencies of the excess flow device. These deficiencies are not an indictment of the EFV device, as the device behaves exactly as designed when used and installed properly. Rather, where the fault lies is in the properties and attributes that industry affixes to these devices to do a job for which they were not designed. The EFV is designed to trigger at a preset flow rate exceeding normal operation and contemplating the ‘shearing off’ of valves or other catastrophic hardware event. In the event of a transfer line failure, in truth the EFV does not fail; it simply works as designed, as the flow through a transfer line is likely within the parameters of normal operation and a rate at which the EFV is set to accept. The passive device is designed to shut off the flow of product in both directions in the transfer hose in the event of a failure between the couplings. When the next transfer lines fails and the call goes to the responsible party, rather than wondering if they have dodged a bullet with an EFV, the first question will be, ‘What did the hose do?’ For more information: This article was written by Andrew Abrams, Thomas Steinbach and Joseph Abrams at LifeGuard Technologies, www.thesafesthose.com
Top surface lake type corrosion
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Water and wastewater industry drives demand for continuous ultrasonic level devices Infrastructure for the water and wastewater industry is the keystone market for continuous ultrasonic level devices (ULD) and its importance is only expected to grow. Global investment in this infrastructure is predicted to be enormous as emerging economies attempt to meet their water needs, while the developed world’s rapidly aging water infrastructure is upgraded. A shortage of quality water is not just a problem for the world’s population but also for many industries requiring it to be able to produce their products. In heavy process industries for example, water is needed to manage temperature of equipment. The oil and gas industry requires water to recover oil from deep within the earth or to release gas trapped in rock. The mining, paper and textiles industries also consume large amounts of water.
These and other industries must increase investment to manage the environmental impact of any wastewater produced, thus creating opportunities for ULD suppliers beyond the traditional water and wastewater industry. With only a few suppliers having the breadth of product line and the infrastructure to achieve global, regional and industry penetration, the balance are left to carve out their separate niches. Those suppliers offering a reliable, low-cost product will have the greatest opportunity to gain market share as this is the product demanded by the water and wastewater industry, where ultrasonic is the level and flow technology of choice due to the following reasons: • No contact (the sensor is mounted above medium to be measured) making it noncorrosive while material build up and wear
• • • •
and tear are avoided. Higher maintenance and repair costs of contacting devices easily surpasses initial savings No moving parts Easy to install, reliable performance, versatile for almost all level applications Enhances safety – workers need not go down into wet wells/confined spaces frequently for maintenance Practical and cost-effective solution – it is less expensive than alternative technologies like radar.
Factors driving the growth of continuous ULD Entry-level device concerns A primary factor is the continued reduction in cost of entry-level versions in combination
with increasing functionality. These offer an effective, affordable solution, primarily for liquid applications with maximum range of 10m or less. These entry level models now have the ability to handle corrosive, sticky and dirty liquids, come equipped with increased functionality, including relays, and are used in small day tank, skid, intermediate bulk containers (IBC), sump and process tank level applications. Emergence of cloud SCADA The emergence of this is also leading to a transformation within the water and wastewater industry, as small- and medium-sized water utilities are able to justify investment in these systems. This should bode well for suppliers of ULD as the transformation in the industry will inherently lead to a natural shedding of its historic reluctance to implement intelligent instrumentation, as these systems require them to do so in order to achieve the operational benefits. Ultrasonics combination of low cost and high functionality meets the needs of small to midsize municipalities, which have limited capex budgets. Aging infrastructure In developed regions, existing water and wastewater infrastructure will require upgrading and expansion to meet future requirements. These projects will use advanced automation technologies to support operational, maintenance and business processes. The current cast iron water piping in London, UK, had its origin in the 19th century and is now gradually deteriorating, leading to leaks and wastage in the distribution network. The next construction wave came at the beginning of the 20th century when consolidation and centralised control characterised this sector. Private water companies were nationalised and the Metropolitan Water Board was formed. This board was later combined with other water boards to eventually form Thames Water, which is presently UK’s largest stateregulated utility water company. Boards and policies apart, the quaint turn of the century infrastructure of many water treatment plants in UK indicates the urgent need to upgrade or replace. The government has allocated funds for infrastructure in the water and wastewater industries. Water infrastructure requirements in developing regions Automation technology is also being adopted to meet the needs of the rapidly growing water infrastructure in the world’s developing regions. Water is a necessity for both human consumption and for agricultural purposes to feed the growing population. The sustainability
of the developing regions already stressed water supply is being threatened both by overuse and pollution. Overuse of the available water resources is increasing the scarcity of water, a factor that is already hampering agricultural and industrial growth in several countries. Inadequate infrastructure also contributes significantly to China’s water problems. China has made significant investments in expanding its water and wastewater infrastructure, with a focus on large construction projects, such as the South-to-North Water Diversion Project, which was partially functional for the Beijing 2008 Olympics. This project involves the construction or expansion of a large number of water treatment plants in the water destination areas. A large number of municipal wastewater treatment plants will also be constructed for pollution control along the route. New governments in the Latin America region recognise that investment in the total water and wastewater cycle are too low. Brazil, with its PAC II government funding package, has earmarked $17 billion (€12.3 billion) to upgrade water and wastewater infrastructure. Peru, under the new leadership of Alan Garcia launched a new programme, Water for All, which intends to increase the level of investment in the country’s water sector to $360 million per year. Mexico’s national water commission, Conagua, plans to
market with increasing greenfield projects. Some examples of mega projects underway in China include the $62 billion South-North Water Transfer Project, which would divert 44.8 billion m3 of water per year from the Yangtze River in southern China to the Yellow River Basin in arid northern China. The project aims to connect Haihe with the three other major rivers – the Yangtze,Yellow and Huaihe. China is set to build the world’s biggest mega city, developing nine cities around the Pearl River Delta. The $306.7 billion ‘Turn The Pearl River Delta Into One’ scheme will build a 16,000 square mile urban area that is 26 times larger than Greater London, or twice the size of Wales. Future outlook As populations grow and urbanisation and industrialisation become rampant, the demand for water will increase; this in turn will boost the demand for continuous ultrasonic level devices. UN statistics highlight that developing countries require $103 billion annually to finance water, sanitation and wastewater treatment. While the water and wastewater industry in emerging economies will drive growth of the continuous ultrasonic level devices market, price will continue to be a key differentiator in the purchasing decisions of users; especially in the price- sensitive Asia region.
Algeria plans to invest $19 billion for water and wastewater management, including 10 treatment plants invest up to $19.8 billion in the water sector over the next six years. The MENA region is also a high growth region for water and wastewater. As part of its second national development plan (20102014), Algeria plans to invest $19 billion for water and wastewater management, including 10 treatment plants. Turkey has adopted new environmental laws that harmonise its regulations with EU standards, and investments in water and wastewater facilities to meet these new standards are expected to reach $40 billion over the next 20 years. Saudi Arabia has announced plans to invest $53 billion in the water and wastewater sector over the next 15 years. Mega projects in developing economies Emerging economies, such as those in the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) countries and the Middle East, will continue to prop up the global ultrasonic level devices
Advances have been made in the materials, electronics, and manufacturing methods, enabling ultrasonic devices to survive better in harsh environments and be more readily commissioned. More powerful, lower cost microcontrollers and additional configurable electronic components allow ultrasonic sensors to adapt to their operating environment for more reliable operation. Controllers continue to add more intelligence and functionality while also being increasingly accurate. The future growth prospects for continuous ultrasonic level devices are being tempered by several factors including ultrasonic technology limitations, potential cuts in funding of water and wastewater projects due to uncertainty in global economies, competition from traditional level technologies such as pressure transmitters and the emerging prospects of low-cost radar and its superior performance. For more information: This article was written by Alex Chatha and Sharada Prahladrao, ARC Advisory Group, Alexc@arcweb.com and Sprahladrao@arcweb.com, www.arcweb.com.
The term ‘limit switch’ appears rather infrequently in technical texts. Why is that?
behind point level switches mean that they are cheaper than continuous level sensors?
Holger Sack: Today, the ‘tried and tested’ analogue limit switches with potentiometer adjustment etc are gradually being replaced by digital technology. That is why these devices are now more commonly called ‘point level sensors.’ Point level measurement is indeed closely related to level measurement.
HS: Roughly speaking yes because continuous level sensors are more complex in structure and sometimes also in technology itself, although it need not always be the case. With regard to the process, point level sensors have to meet the same requirements as continuous level ones. Level switches just carry out a ‘simpler evaluation’ of level data. That’s why the price of a level switch, or point level sensor, is usually less than that of a continuous level sensor by a certain factor.
To what extent are the two technologies different? HS: Level measurement is used to describe continuous measurement of a changing level, whereas point level is used to indicate a discrete condition, like the existence of the level at a certain point. To clarify, ‘level’ means the continuous measurement of contents from empty to full, with the values being output in percent, volume or other units of content. ‘Point level’ means a discrete on/off signal is given when a product has reached a significant level within a vessel.
Continuous or discrete – can the two areas of applications be clearly separated from one another? HS: No, they can’t.You can find both level and point level sensors everywhere, even combined in one application depending on customer requirement. Both sensor types are usually installed when an increase in safety is needed, like within the chemical industry for example.
Does the simpler technology
In point level detection, a switching command starts or stops the filling equipment. How do you monitor the process? HS: On the one hand, the individual sensor has to be considered and the entire measurement chain on the other. Microprocessor technology in modern sensors enables numerous functions that monitor the electronics, as well as the sensing element, during operation. A high percentage of faults in the electronics, as well as in the sensing element, such as build-up or corrosion, can be detected and reported. Looking at the entire measurement chain, we see information on tank contents is forwarded to the control system or special actuators through cables or bus systems. These systems are responsible for ensuring elements like valves and pumps operate at the right time. Until now, all devices in a system were analysed individually from safetyengineering standpoint, but this has changed. Engineers now look at the entire measurement chain, from the sensor to
the transmission of measured values to the actuating components. This ultimately ensures the switch-off mechanism in its entirety works, preventing overfilling or dry running of pumps.
When it comes to safety, has level switch technology improved in that respect? HS: The basic technology is very old. People built level switches long before they started building continuous level measuring instruments. For that reason there are still a lot of old, but proven, technologies in service, such as floats or paddle switches. The capacitive measuring principle is also an old, ‘tried and true’ measuring method, albeit with a few limitations when compared to the vibration principle. Next to microwave/ radar, vibration is currently the most universal measuring principle we offer. Vega has been focusing on electronic measuring systems for years because they have advantages in terms of maintenance and means lifecycle costs. That’s why, although they are a little more expensive to produce and to purchase, we believe this extra outlay pays off over a service life of 15 years or more.
The VegaSwing 66
Does this mean the new VegaSwing 66 vibrating level switch is just well-known technology in a new guise?
How did you make it possible to use the switch in such extreme temperatures and pressures?
HS: No, not in this regard. The backstory is this instrument can be used in temperature and pressure ranges where only a few technologies could previously be deployed, and certainly not the tuning fork measuring principle.
HS: For one thing, we replaced the previously used piezoelectric drive with a special solenoid which we developed ourselves. This solenoid now drives the tuning fork and is able to withstand the high temperatures. We now also use ceramic materials and have
Until now, it was not possible to use vibration technology in temperatures above 250°c but the VegaSwing 66 can both work in temperatures up to 450°c or as low as -195°c. The basis of this technology is a tuning fork which is electrically excited and made to vibrate over a few micrometres range. Until now, it was not possible to use vibration technology in temperatures above 250°c but the VegaSwing 66 can both work in temperatures up to 450°c or as low as -195°c. It can also work across pressures from -1 to 160 bar.
designed the electrical connections so secure that they operate reliably even at 450°c. Lastly, we achieved the high pressure resistance through the mechanical stability of robust materials which withstand pressures up to 160 bar.
For point level detection, the user can choose between different measuring principles.
How can the customer be sure he gets the right one? HS: It is always important the customer tells us in advance what their requirements and application conditions are because, with this information, we can recommend the right measuring principle. However, we are confronted again and again with new challenges that push the limits of our technology. Our customer’s businesses do not stand still, they’re continuously developing their processes. In most cases it’s about new combinations of pressure, temperature and chemicals which drives us to constantly develop and improve our products and measuring principles.
Current problems are, for example, difficult product properties or foaming. To what extent do these factors influence measuring results? HS: On the VegaSwing 66, for example, we can detect build-up and also whether the tuning fork is corroded or broken. This is possible both due to the measuring principle itself, as well as monitoring of the natural resonant frequency. Build-up changes the amplitude of the oscillation, which allows us to use the available processor technology to electronically evaluate this change and notify the customer that a problem exists. Such ‘anticipatory’ diagnostic capabilities are being demanded by customers more and more.
Camargue flood
PREVENTION The Petit Camargue lies in the LanguedocRoussillon Region of southern France between the Mediterranean Sea and the right side of the Petit Rhône, one of the two arms of the Rhône River Delta. Covering an area of 55,000ha, of which 38,000ha comprise wetlands, the Petite Camargue is largely given over to agriculture and fisheries, whilst its very special flora and fauna make it a haven for wildlife and tourism. With large areas of the Petite Camargue lying some two metres below sea level, it is prone to regular flooding resulting from the rising levels of the rivers Vistre,Vidourle and Rhône, and sometimes by breaks in the dykes. The earth of the wetlands is naturally saturated so in the event of great floods, when water courses rise above river and drainage
channel banks, some 300km² of the Petite Camargue can be transformed into a massive overflow area. Basically, this means that the water gathers here until it flows or drains off again, a process that can take a considerable amount of time and at a considerable cost to the local communities. As land reclaimed from the sea, the Petite Camargue has been drained, both manually and by drainage structures for several centuries. In the more recent past, pumping stations have eased the burden, with the flood water being initially pumped from the flooded areas and then fed into the Rhône where it flows into the sea. However, in the past 20 years, these pumping stations have proved to be inadequate when put to the ultimate test. Intense flooding occurred in 1993 and 1994, and as a result a special body, Syndicat Mixte de la Camargue Gardoise (SMCG) was established with the eight communities affected to address the problem. Eventually in 1998 a further public body was created to thoroughly investigate how to reduce the risks of flooding, with the results expected by 2003. However, in September 2002, flooding of the Rhône upstream occurred and this had a serious affect on the region. This was followed in December 2003 when flooding on the Rhône and its main tributaries took on considerable, even historical, dimensions. In the lower course of the Rhône, which runs in part along the Petite Camargue, 2003 was the third-largest known flood, even greater that the two floods of 1840 and 1856 which had massive effects on the region. In Beaucaire, which is situated several kilometres north of the Petite Camargue, floods peaked at 11,500 m³/s. In the lower course of the Rhône it took several days, in some parts even several weeks, before the water flowed into the sea. Some residential areas were four meters underwater and, on both sides of the river, 32,000 people had to be evacuated. The floods covered 30,000ha, caused damage worth an estimated €300 million and took more than three months to pump clear.
Action plan The new pumping station at La Capette
As a result of this human and environmental catastrophe, a project – ‘Camargue Gaudoise’
Engineering work being undertaken at Sylvéréal
was initiated in 2005 which, although not being able to completely prevent flooding, would limit damage to land and property. The main objective of the project was to shorten the time in which the area from Saint-Gilles to Le Grau du Roi remains underwater. That plan involved the construction of 11 hydraulic stations, five reinforced pumping stations and one completely new pumping station, in effect doubling pumping to 45.3m³/sec. This infrastructure investment considerably increases the volume of water that can be drained and significantly reduces the length of time that water remains in overflow areas by draining the land more quickly. Due to the complexity of the project and the number of organisations and suppliers involved, work did not commence on the construction until 2011. Whilst there were many engineering and environmental assessments to be made, the central issue to the success of the project was the hydraulics and their infrastructure. It was here that pump manufacturer KSB took a lead role, having earlier extended the pump station at La Souteyranne/Liviers in 2006 with additional pumps from its Amacan range, and then securing the project contract in 2010. KSB’s Amacan P series submersible motor pump is used extensively around the world for industrial and agricultural water supply, stormwater and flood prevention stations
and the water and wastewater treatment industries. The Amacan P is a close-coupled, wet-installed single entry axial open impeller pump where the impeller is located in a tubular casing immersed in the water. Explosion protected to ATEX II G2 T3, the pump has a maximum flow capacity of up to 7,000l/ sec and a maximum head of 12m. Low vibration hydraulics and a vortexfree flow due to the inlet ribs and wide bellmouth ensure that the pump is hydraulically optimised. Operating efficiency is provided by the slim motor that minimises discharge tube flow losses. From the outset of its involvement in the project, KSB. recognised that its responsibilities would go far beyond merely supply and installing the required number of pumps. Technical adaptations to the various pumping stations would be necessary in order to provide optimum performance for the pumps Examples of this include extending the La Fosse pumping station to increase drainage by a further 3m³/s; planning and equipping a new pumping station at the end of the Canal
Installing an Amacan pump
de Capette to increase drainage by a further 9m³/sec and refurbishing the pumping stations at Souteyranne/Mas Livers, La Cave/Le Mole, Sylvéréal and Bourgidou/Aigues-Mortes in order to adapt to their new drainage volumes. Each pumping station had its own special requirements, which in certain cases required KSB to simulate flow conditions to evaluate and test its civil engineering structures in order to ensure that the pumps would fulfil their duties. At Sylvéréal, it was necessary to construct special inlet chambers in the feed basin in which the pumps were installed to counter the vortex effects on the water surface which could damage the pumps. At the la Cave/Le Mole station, a special ‘tulip’shaped cone was designed and constructed at the end of the tube in which the pump was installed in order to give greater suction. Coupled with all these engineering works was the need to equip each pumping station with secure control panels for the remote operation of the pumps. At the completion of the engineering and construction programme, KSB engineers had installed and commissioned 13 Amacan pumps with flows ranging from 0.5m³/sec to 4m³/ sec, increasing the drainage pumping capability of the Petit Camargue from 19.8m³/sec to 45.3m³/sec. As a result of this major investment, which was jointly financed by Europe, the French State, the region of Languedoc-Roussillon, the Department Garde and the ‘Syndicat Mixte Départmental des Milieux Aquatiques’, the SMCG now has a robust flood prevention scheme that is capable of handling the flood levels encountered in 2003. For more information: www.ksb.com
A matter of (eccentric disc pump) principle Eccentric disc technology has gained legendary status in western Europe as the pump style that measures its success over decades rather than just years. One specific eccentric disc pump style that was introduced in 1965 boasts the type of robustness that has led to tens of thousands of units sold in western Europe alone. Many of these units have provided 30 or 40 years of service with virtually no maintenance. Eccentric disc pump technology was originally tailored specifically for the western European oil and chemical markets due to its unique design, which enables the pump to transfer viscous, non-lubricating, volatile and delicate materials without any risk of shearing. This photo is from a recent oxygen flash fire caused by the This includes the introduction of hydrocarbon sediment from a valve into a safe handling of hose while filling cylinders. The hose ignited in its centre area emulsions, inks, causing complete hose severance. The internal monel cable adhesives and melted in the flash and the hose separated on two sides. The resins in the internal system shut down the flow and no additional damage to chemical industry; property or personnel occurred other than the hose itself
and crude oil, waste oils and many different types of traditional or alternative fuels in the petroleum markets. Over time, food manufacturers in western Europe began implementing these types of pumps to handle molasses, cooking oil and cocoa butter, to name a few. While this technology has forged a readily acknowledged reputation for unmatched durability in these markets, that reputation remained somewhat of a western European secret for many years. But over time, word has spread about the value of this technology in a variety of applications, and as commerce traditionally dictates, supply eventually needed to meet growing global demand.
Fixing design inefficiencies Part of the motivation to improve fluidtransfer in mining operations centered around the inefficiencies of the two prominent pump technologies at the time: internal gear pumps and lobe pumps. Specifically, gear pumpsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; style of operation leaves them susceptible to decreased flow capacity. This starts with the meshing of the gears, which pump fluids by displacement, forcing the gears to contact each other as they turn. This causes the gears to wear and results in increased clearances between the gear teeth, which leads to a loss
A Series Eccentric Disc Pumps are self-priming, ensuring strong suction even after the pump runs dry, which is critical in applications such as paint and coatings
of volumetric consistency. As they wear, gear pumps are also forced to run at higher speeds to maintain desired flow rates. The overall result: decreased performance and reliability with a corresponding increase in operating and maintenance costs. Lobe pumps may offer continuous flow and run-dry capabilities, as well as the ability to handle a wide range of liquids, solids and slurries, but they wear constantly due to design deficiencies, as well. When a lobe pump wears, the internal clearances become greater, resulting in reduced flow capacity and volumetric consistency over time, along with an increase in efficiency-robbing product slip. Lobe pumps also feature two shafts that need to be sealed, which doubles the potential for leakage. Lobe pumps must also operate at decreased speeds to handle high-viscosity liquids and can deliver poor performance when handling low-viscosity liquids.
pumps run dry, they continue to operate even after the material has been transferred in order to clear the lines. As a result, the pump’s components can potentially burn and seize, which can result in costly damage to the pump internals. Eccentric disc pumps, by comparison, have the ability to run dry for a limited time without risk of pump damage. The eccentric disc design also ensures gentle product handling with low shearing and has the ability to self-compensate for mechanical wear, guaranteeing consistent flow rates over time. The eccentric disc pump design features high vacuum and compression effect for strong line-stripping ability, and a reduced number of components for quick and easy disassembly and reassembly. The
International expansion
In 1965, France-based pump specialist Mouvex launched the A Series eccentric disc pump, which quickly built a reputation for robustness. A critical part about the A Series is its mechanical seals. The mechanical seal is positioned behind the piston to provide shaft sealing. Previously, operators could only use the A Series with Mouvex mechanical seals, but it now offers the A Series with Mouvex or standardised seals. This helps expedite installations worldwide as end-users no longer have to wait for seal delivery from France. From a performance perspective, the redesigned A Series has doubled its maximum differential pressure from 5 bar (73 psi) to 10 bar (145 psi), allowing it to be used in many new applications. The A Series pumps are now available in ductile-iron construction. Previously, the A Series was available in cast-iron construction only. This material enhancement is critical as more and more companies in the petrochemical industry are moving away from cast iron construction. A Series pumps enable product transfer up to 150°C (302°F), as well as the use of heating or cooling jackets with products that can solidify at ambient temperatures. The pumps are ATEX-certified and can run dry for up to three The A Series has been upgraded to include ductileiron construction and differential pressure to 10 bar minutes in potentially explosive (145 psi) – double what was previously possible environments. with the original A Series
eccentric disc principle allows these pumps to continually run in reverse, which enables the back-pumping of liquids.
For more information: This article was written by Andrew Abrams, Thomas Steinbach and Joseph Abrams at LifeGuard Technologies, www.thesafesthose.com
Sustainable innovation Eccentric disc pumps feature a disc that is placed inside a pump cylinder. The disc is driven by an eccentric bearing that is installed on the pump shaft. This creates two distinct pumping chambers that increase and decrease in volume as the disc is moved by the eccentric bearing, producing both suction and discharge pressures as the chambers move in pairs that are 180 degrees apart. This ensures that the fluid passes through the pump at a constant flow rate. During operation, the pump’s disc is driven by the eccentric movement of the shaft, which allows products to flow through the pump’s inner and outer chambers. This eliminates any possibility of pulsation within the pumped liquid and any slip is negligible. The eccentric disc design also enables selfpriming, which ensures strong suction even after the pump runs dry. This is in contrast with other pump technologies. When other
Eccentric disc technology, seen here in the A Series pump, addresses the inefficiencies found in internal gear and lobe pumps
Choosing the right pump for a challenging application A Rhode Island company in the high performance alloy business had a problem with its current pumps. Frequent repairs, lack of space, and energy inefficiencies plagued their operations. By nature, their application is a difficult one.The company pumps water lime concentration containing trace nickel, copper and other metals. Water lime concentration is highly akaline, with a pH between 8-9, sometimes as high as 11.The fluid also contains a high percentage of abrasive solids. Both of these fluid characteristics are tough on pumps, especially if those pumps are not well-suited to the application. At the time, the company was operating with a Vanton polypropylene frame-mounted pump that took up a large chunk of the factory floor space and could not withstand the harsh properties of the water lime concentration it was handling. The constant wearing on the plastic pump parts caused premature failures, breakdowns and maintenance headaches. The pump and motor for this pump type were also attached by a drive coupling that needed to be realigned quite frequently. Without a better alternative, the company was required to repair its frame-mounted pumps at a very high cost.
The solution Delta Pump Group, a subsection of Delta Electro Power, a family company also based in the Rhode Island area, recommended a 316 stainless steel close-coupled Price Pump. The company’s owner, Eric Novogrodski, suggested the company install the Price Pump XJ400 close-coupled horizontal centrifugal pump. Because the pump does not feature a coupling, it does not need to be constantly realigned. The pump is also significantly smaller than the frame-mounted pump. ‘They probably gained 75% of their floor space back,’
Novogrodski explains. As a part of the package, Delta provided a variable frequency drive, which translates to two important savings for customers. First, this means a soft start coming up to speed. Not creating immediate high torque allows slurries to be processed before getting up to a high rpm, meaning the pump will have increased longevity in those tough applications. Second, the liquid is pushed through a set of membranes and then reused in the wastetreatment stream. The user has the ability to adjust the flow rate depending on what is happening downstream, enabling a more energy efficient system and saving money along the way. Moreover, the efficiency of the
25HP motor Price pump was better than that of the 30HP motor Vanton pump. The XJ400 is a close-coupled, closedimpeller horizontal centrifugal pump. It was introduced as an expansion to the pump manufacturer’s existing XJ product line that increased flow capability to 1100 GPM (4164 LPM). The compact pump is ideal for a broad range of applications, including water and wastewater treatment, textile dyeing, acid mine drainage, frac water treatment, irrigation/ fertilisation, municipal water treatment, cooling towers, liquid transfer and more. For more information: www.pricepump.com , price@ese.tc
Reducing costs through correct valve specification Choosing the correct design and specification of valve for a process can save money, reduce downtimes and minimise product loss or contamination. From choosing the most effective seat material, to the correct mounting considerations of an actuator, there are many different factors that can affect the wear and tear on a valve and in turn create problems with contamination and reduce a valve’s life cycle. In one instance a paint manufacturer required a solution for moving paint which was accumulating in the void behind the ball on its non-encapsulated SVF ball valves. On being presented with the problem European valve supplier Dixon Hygienic investigated and
found that the titanium dioxide additive within the paint was causing premature failure of the standard ball valves being used. Analysing the current industrial ball valve being used, it was determined that the best solution would include an encapsulated ball valve. This would minimise titanium dioxide paint migration between the ball and valve body. Dixon concluded that a seal with higher abrasion resistance would be beneficial due to the nature of the titanium. Additionally the size of the actuator was increased to produce more torque. This ensured valve rotation if the process fluid began to solidify. After a complete study of the application and the unique additives present in the media,
Dixon Hygienic offered a complete solution consisting of: 1. Supplying an encapsulated ball valve to minimise internal voids. 2. Using 15% fibreglass reinforced PTFE seats and seals for abrasion resistance and increased cycle life. 3. Utilising a larger actuator to overcome resistant forces inherent to solidifying paint. This valve system was put through a one year in-service test and was a success. It resulted in greater service life than the current system and it was all done at a competitive price. For more information: +44 (0) 1772 323529, marketing@dixoneurope.co.uk
www.fluidhandlingmag.com Our aim is to provide a one-stop source of information relating to the use of fluid handling technologies and systems in operation globally, as well as their operation and maintenance, across a range of industries such as chemicals, petroleum, pharmaceuticals, water/wastewater and the food & beverage sectors. So if you’re looking at best practices on the measurement or containment of your fluids then we hope you find what you’re looking for here. If not just give us a call.
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Hermetically sealed dosing pump with low shear The pharmaceutical industry requires dedicated pump techniques for pumping cells and other sensitive products. Unfortunately there are very few process pumps available for small flow rates because the preferred rotary lobe pumps for these small flow rates have not been built yet. This is mainly due to the construction of the synchronisation gearbox of the rotary lobe pump, which proves a challenge, particularly with small flows. Next to this, the requirement for a hermetically sealed pump is another obstacle in the design of a rotary lobe pump.
pump is very important for reliable and reproducible dosing tasks in the classical chemical industry. The pharmaceutical industry has additional requirements for their process pumps. The industry needs smooth dosing with low shear. It is also necessary that the pump parts have smooth cleanable surfaces in order to keep them germ-free. In order to fulfil the requirements of the pharmaceutical industry it is important to start with investigating the influence of these requirements on the construction and specifications of the pump. Low shear dosing with gear pumps is possible if the pressure difference is relatively low. The tolerances between the different pump parts have to therefore be relatively big, the intervention of the gears has to be smooth and the shear speed has to be low. Bigger tolerances in the pump will cause an inevitable internal back flush. As the shear rate has to be as low as possible, it will limit the dosing range, the minimum viscosity and the maximum differential and system pressure. It seems, at first, to be fairly straightforward to design and build a pump with larger tolerances. But the construction is The magnet drive Gather gear pump (standard) challenged by the Cleaning The magnetic drive gear pump from German manufacturer Gather Industrie is one of the most flexible and reliable hermetically sealed dosing pump systems available on the pump market. The requirements for this application are not simple. In principle a magnetic drive gear pump causes high shear. This is caused by the small clearances between the pump parts and the high motor speeds. These design characteristics are mandatory in order to be able to pump low viscous liquids in a reliable way. This characteristic of this multipurpose Exploded view of a Gather gear pump
in Place (CIP) requirements. With CIP-lyes or CIP-acids at 85°C it should be possible to pump low viscous products. This, however, requires the highest possible precision of the pump parts and with narrow tolerances. Due to the close cooperation with the pharmaceutical industry it was possible to adapt the flexible and high tech base concept of the magnet drive Gather gear pumps to these requirements. For this reason the pump had to be redesigned and optimised in different areas: 1) Lower driving speeds, limited to maximal 500 rpm (depending on the liquid handled) 2) Precise guided gears with optimal tolerances at the side faces 3) Changed gear operation at the discharge side 4) Increased tolerances in the containment shell 5) Surface quality of Ra â&#x2030;¤ 0,8 Îźm 6) Use of FDA approved respectively by the pharmaceutical industry accepted materials 7) Flanges and/or connections suitable for the pharmaceutical industry (e.g. TriClamp or Aseptic flanges). The Gather pump was designed in a way that CIP was possible. And most importantly, a hermetically sealed solution for reproducible dosing of shear sensitive products was achieved.
For more information: This article was written by Sven Borghoff, sales and product manager at Gather Industrie GmbH, http://www.gather-industrie.de/
Systems: Fluid Control Systems: • Additive & Dye Injection • Bio Fuel & Chemical Blending • Fuel & Chemical Loading • Pump Sets & Pump Control Vehicle & Plant Access Solutions: • Truck & Railcar Loading & Access • Portable Access Units (Rolling Ladders) • Modular Industrial Stairs & Platforms • Barge & Ship Loading & Access •
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Comprehensive solution DRS is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). The company was established in 1995 as a lynch pin supplier of transport and associated services to the nuclear industry and has successfully extended its service offerings into a number of new and exciting rail market sectors. When DRS wanted to upgrade and extend its fuel holding facility at their major depot in Daventry the company asked Scotland-based James Blake & Co (Engineers) to help. James Blake & Co turned to UK-based fuel handling specialist Alpeco, to design and build part of the turnkey project for the Daventry fuel storage and dispensing facility. The Alpeco ‘made-to-measure’ unit was integrated into a purpose built enclosure on the side of the Blake & Co-manufactured storage tank. The Alpeco supplied dispenser comprises two electric motor driven pump units, one of which is a back up for the other should there be a problem, or should the
main duty pump be shut down for routine maintenance. Part of the equipment included a Liquid Controls 2” meter with counter, which monitors the amount of fuel which is dispensed to each train, printer and pre-set along with a Bobbin type electric rewind hose reel carrying 150 foot length of delivery hose. Liquid Controls’ M7N1 2” meter is capable of handling fuel oils at flow rates up to 380 LPM. The meter is equipped with strainer, air eliminator,Veeder-root mechanical counter, ticket printer, pre-set and 2 stage shut off valve The Collins Youldon HR43 1.5” standard electric rewind reel takes up to 30m of 50mm outer diameter hose, fitted with a 415V ac 3-phase flameproof motor. Collins Youldon has manufactured hose reels since the early 1980s and has developed a comprehensive range of products for various applications including fuel oil delivery and fire-fighting. It is the largest supplier of vehiclemounted hose reels in the UK and over 50%
of its hosereel production is exported. The installation of Alpeco manufactured skid units and pumps were linked to an OFST 200 integrally bunded steel storage tank as required by the EA and SEPA, whose responsibility it is to ensure compliance with Oil Storage Regulations. James Blake & Co had already installed the duplex pump system so that arrival on site enabled immediate electrical connection and commissioning as the skid was being fitted adjacent to rail lines that were in constant use. The operation was carried out in just under four hours and well within the time allotted. The real issue was ensuring that the installation was perfectly executed as the adjacent railway lines carry traffic 24 hoursa-day.
For more information: www.alpeco.co.uk
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MULtI-ModaL sYsteMs
taNker eNcLosUre sYsteMs The Tanker Enclosure System (TCEN4) provides absolute safety for operators working on tanker tops by providing a walk surface over the entire tanker top that can be simply lifted up where necessary to provide access to the tanker connections. Handling Loading Arms and Hoses just became a lot easier.
The Multi-Modal system is the pinnacle of tanker top safe operations. The Multi-Modal raises and lowers vertically through a 1.5m range and can tilt each end to correct for sloping tanker tops. It can be custom designed to suit a range of lengths and widths. Supplied fully galvanised as standard however it is also available in Stainless Steel or painted to customer specifications.
cUstoM Meter skId sYsteMs Loadtec supply packaged metering systems to provide the customer with point of transfer volumetric or mass metering of liquids. The skids can also have pumps included and be provided as mobile units if required. The range of materials and methods of metering are configured to suit customer requirements.
Loadtec BottoM LoadING arMs Bottom unloading of tankers via loading arms is becoming increasingly popular. Hoses are heavy to lift and often are not stored thoughtfully. Bottom un/loading arms are completely counterbalanced and carry various accessories such as Dry Disconnect couplers, valves, purging and breakaway couplings. They can also be jacketed and insulated.
taNker access PLatforMs
Safe and robust access to tanker tops for operator convenience. A customer driven specification based on our unique design, provides an inexpensive and safe system for inspection or loading operations.
MoBILe access carts In cases where infrequent access is required or tanker positions are not fixed, the Mobile Access Cart will provide safe access to tanker tops of varying height. Ideally used for sample taking and inspection of bond seals, the MCA has foam filled 16â&#x20AC;? wheels and galvanised steel chassis with numerous optional configurations.
Loadtec toP LoadING arMs Top loading remains the most common form of bulk liquid transfer. Ensuring that it is carried out safely and with minimal environmental impact is a serious responsibility. Loading Arms equipped with vapour recovery and safety interlocks provide these solutions. Call us to have a look at your application and talk about how we can help.
track MoUNted GaNGWaYs
This system utilises a unique track and barrier system to allow a folding star to traverse over any distance, providing flexible access onto tanker tops where long loading racks are used.
foLdING staIrs
Bridging the variable gap between the tanker and the platform, our safety stairs are available in 3, 4 or 5 steps with optional safety cages. These take under an hour to fit to existing steelwork and take another safety problem away.
eLectroNIc GroUNdING
BreakaWaY coUPLINGs
fLoatING sUctIoN UNIts
The RTR Electronic Earthing Monitor is probably the biggest selling intelligent earthing system in Europe. The system provides a permissive signal when the tanker is recognised and correctly earthed.
An unplanned drive-away by a road tanker during liquid transfer operations could be disastrous. The breakaway coupling will part before damage occurs to the hose or loading arm and will close off at each end to secure the liquid in the line.
Simple and complex floating suction arm units are used in storage tanks to allow suction of the product near to the liquid surface level, avoiding intake of water or sediments that accumulate at the bottom of a tank.
Loadtec Engineered Systems is the leading brand name for Tanker Loading & Unloading Systems involving bulk fluid transfer. High quality and bespoke systems that provide safe, clean and efficient operations for point of transfer activities. Loadtec has the widest portfolio of Fall Prevention systems in the world, which provides our customers with unrivalled choice to suit logistics, budget and risk. A look at our website gallery will illustrate numerous examples of previously completed projects. Contact us to see how we can improve your operations.
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