ASK AN EXPERT
The pump industry relies on expertise from a large and varied range of specialists, from experts in particular pump types to those with an intimate understanding of pump reliability; and from researchers who delve into the particulars of pump curves to experts in pump efficiency. To draw upon the wealth of expert knowledge the Australian pump industry has to offer, Pump Industry has established a panel of experts to answer all your pumping questions.
This edition of Ask an Expert will look at digitalisation and its influence on the pump industry. Q. How will smart pumps shape the future of the pump industry?
A: Innovations that shape the future and improve lives exist in all branches of industry, also in the progressive cavity pump market. Here, smart pumps will be soon the “game-changer” and standard within many plants. The reasons for that are manifold: tough competition, the strive to increase efficiency and reduce TCO, as well as pumps installed at remote locations require smart pumps. All of them being able to monitor process-critical factors and reduce maintenance times to guarantee plant availability and productivity. Smart progressive cavity pump monitoring can greatly improve production.
Q. How do manufacturers react to the situation? Which pumps, services and solutions are available?
A: Taken from daily life, progressive cavity pump manufacturers have established online shops as one of their first contact points when it comes to ordering spare parts. In addition, they have developed intelligent products, which complement innovative pump technology with new digital techniques, making the pumps more efficient. Smart Air Injection and Smart Dosing Pumps are good examples for these kinds of products. However, only a few manufacturers are pursuing a more holistic approach. Modular solution networks control and monitor the pumps and optimise processes, maximise availability and reduce inspection and maintenance costs. They range from digitally-supported maintenance via Virtual Reality, to digital pump management with easy spare parts ordering and data-based cloud services.
Smart progressive cavity pump data can be monitored and stored in the cloud.
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pump industry | Spring 2021 | Issue 37
www.pumpindustry.com.au
