IT’S YOUR BPMA NEWS.. As readers of “the News” it is important that we bring you informative and interesting articles and information from the association and its members. But do we do enough? Probably not!! We can do much betterbut we need your help. Tell us what you like and dislike about the content, do you want more articles, special sections, a people page, comments and so on - and please don’t pull your punches… Email your thoughts and comments to the editor at peterullmann@piimag.com This also applies to our members – your comments too please– it is after all your “soap box”.
NEWS
JAN / FEB 2015
Meet the family the fast way. All our Eta pumps at a glance.
ON SHOW…. It’s been a while since we publicly “showed off” – but this year we will be, for the first time “on show” at the MAINTEC 2015 Exhibition at the NEC 24th – 26th March. There is possibly much that readers don’t know about the association, excepting members of course, so if you & your company feel that learning more about the BPMA could be beneficial, here’s the opportunity to go ‘face to face’. A night out and a stroll in the park… March 19th sees this year’s Pump Industry Awards Gala Event and May 15th our annual Golf Day – to book your seat or pull on your “plus fours” see page 2.
Eta keeps the world on the move Our Eta pump family keeps the world on the move. And there are plenty of big reasons: the highly efficient top-class hydraulic system. Dozens of sizes, materials and drives in almost any combination. And service that puts rivals in the shade. After millions of great pumps, the new generation is here. So discover what Eta can now do for you. www.ksb.com/eta-en • KSB Limited • 2 Cotton Way • Loughborough • Leicestershire • LE11 5TF • 01509 231872 • www.ksb.co.uk
Etanorm
Etaline
Etabloc
Etanorm SYT
Our technology. Your success. Pumps Valves Service n
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THE BOTTOM LINE FOR BUSINESS: SAVE ENERGY, SAVE MONEY By reducing energy consumption by 1 per cent, big businesses could save over £250 million on their energy bills annually. Big businesses are paying for five power stations worth of electricity each year they don’t need. However even reducing their energy consumption by 1 per cent could save over £250 million on their energy bills annually. The new Energy Saving Opportunity Scheme (ESOS), launching in December, will help large organisations cut their electricity use with a detailed energy audit. Over a hundred representatives from businesses, charities and universities met with Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey in January to explore how to use energy more efficiently and lower their energy bills. Addressing the event, Ed Davey said: “Britain’s big firms are spending around £2.8 billion extra each year on inefficient energy technologies – the equivalent output of nearly five power stations. Now is the time to seize the opportunity with ESOS – and organisations up and down the country are already gearing up to make changes to save energy, save money and save the environment. If you act and invest, you will save – and that’s the bottom line” Through ESOS all large organisations that employ at least 250 people, or have an annual turnover of above around £40 million and a balance sheet above around £34 million, must carry out energy audits every 4 years. Hugh Jones, Managing Director, Advisory at the Carbon Trust commented: “At the Carbon Trust we have already engaged with hundreds of businesses on ESOS, helping to explain how they can achieve compliance while also making significant energy savings and cutting carbon. From the interest we have seen so far we expect ESOS to benefit British business by helping companies to reduce overheads and increase competitiveness. Businesses often aren’t aware of opportunities in energy efficiency, or they don’t realise how attractive the paybacks can be. By requiring companies to understand exactly how they can make cost-effective investment in energy efficiency, they are far more likely to take action”. The event was held at the Institute of Directors and included a panel discussion with Ed Davey, Rhian Kelly (Director of Business Environment at CBI), and Paul Ekins (Director UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources & Deputy Director of the UK Energy Research Centre). Attendees explored how to encourage take up of energy efficiency opportunities to make the most of the scheme. NOTES • The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) is a mandatory energy assessment scheme for all large organisations - including businesses, charities and universities - in the UK. We estimate this includes around 9,400 organisations. • Qualifying organisations must carry out energy audits every 4 years, with the first assessment due by 5 December 2015. The audits will provide them with high-quality information about how they can improve their energy efficiency and ultimately save money on their energy bills. • Government established ESOS to implement Article 8 (4-6) of the EU Energy Efficiency Directive. In line with the Directive, the scheme does not apply to the public sector. • Find out more details about ESOS go to: www.gov.uk/energy-savings-opportunity-scheme-esos The Department of Energy and Climate Change will review the ESOS policy in 2016.
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And do not forget Guidance has also been published to help potential participants in the scheme understand their obligations and on page 43 of the full ESOS guidance document you will see that the ISO/14414-Pump System Energy Assessment standard is referenced as an auditing methodology that can be accepted by “Lead Assessors” approved by the Environment Agency. Accordingly it is hoped BPMA CPSA accredited persons (who are trained according to the IS0 14414 standard) will be recommended by Lead Assessors to undertake the pumping system elements of company energy audits. And bear in mind:• Pumps are the largest consumers of global motive power • Pumping System improvements can deliver up to 40% reduction in energy costs – and therefore improve user bottom line P&L account performance • The fact that BPMA’s CPSA scheme has been designed to help by equipping people with the skills to conduct a Pumping System Audit in accordance with ISO/14414 So when considering auditing your pumping systems, remember the BPMA Certified Pump System Auditor Scheme (http://www.bpmacpsa.co.uk) has established BPMA as THE body to train and certify personnel who undertake “Pumping System Assessments” as referenced in UK Government Energy Strategy documents.
BPMA
COMING EVENTS MARCH 19TH – PUMP INDUSTRY AWARDS - HELD AT THE CHESFORD GRANGE HOTEL – KENILWORTH The Pump Industry Awards held in association with the BPMA, has been recognising the best performing companies and people for their achievements and positive contributions since 2000. In 2015, we are proud to be leading the call again in championing those responsible for pioneering new frontiers, inspiring others and achieving growth in challenging markets. We hope you’ll join us in this unique opportunity to network, exchange ideas and celebrate with the industry’s best and brightest. For more information please turn to page 4. MARCH 24TH – 26TH – MAINTEC 2015 The BPMA has taken a stand at the show for the first time at this year’s event. Positioned in the dedicated ‘pump sector’ where you can find us at Stand M30L - so if you are attending make a point of coming to see us and find more about our services and facilities –you will be surprised of what we do and offer… MAY 14TH - OUR ANNUAL GOLF DAY + BREAKFAST ON THE 15TH – NO NOT THE HOLE – THE DAY… This year it is being played at ‘Glorious Goodwood’ – not in the midst of the race course, but at Goodwood Park, one of the UK’s premier sporting venues and it’s a great place to entertain your clients or employees alike. For what is always a great day+ it’s amazing value at just £220 per player + vat and with “special room rates for the 13th & 16th, how can you refuse to make your reservations…. For more information log on to www.bpma.org.com and go to “Events” or call Jeanne Page on 0121 601 6691
BPMA PUMPING FUNDAMENTALS COURSES Venue: National Metalforming Centre 1 minute from J1, M5) Cost: £300.00 + VAT per delegate per course (BPMA member discounts available) SCHEDULED COURSE DATES FOR 2015: 23/24 February 1/2 June 24/25 August 23/24 November
When safety matters Rely on us
MODULE 001 PART 1 – PUMPING FUNDAMENTALS • Introduction • Pumps as machines, liquid properties & definitions • Terminology – definitions • Fluid flow – basic concepts, cavitation & NPSH • Systems performance, pump • Performance, matching pump & system
We are the most experienced and respected specialists in the business. Rely on us to help manage your health & safety responsibilities more efficiently and effectively.
MODULE 001 PART 2 – PUMP SELECTION • Introduction • Recap on part one • General Approach to Selecting A Pump • Defining The Need • Collecting Information From Customer • Grouping The Desired Features
Whether it’s preparing your health & safety policy, carrying out a risk assessment or help with a strategic initiative such as improving health & safety standards across multiple sites, you choose what you need from our comprehensive mix of services centred on our consultants, practical online tools, health & safety management systems, audits and advice lines. Members of BPMA qualify for a special membership discount. Quote 81957DL when you contact us.
We are able to offer all of our lecture-based courses “inhouse”. Contact j.page@bpma.org.uk for further details. Other modules available visit www.bpma.org.uk
To see how we can help you manage the health & safety risks in your workplace, visit
www.cronersolutions.co.uk/bpma ®
denise.leigh@wolterskluwer.co.uk
BPMA E-LEARNING COURSES BPMA also offer a choice of two on-line courses: TECHNOLOGY LEVEL TWO (QCF) INTRODUCTION TO PUMPING This provides standardised terminology and a very basic approach to the various pump types. It is targetted at all employees who need to know the language of the pump industry. ESSENTIALS OF PUMPING TECHNOLOGY LEVEL FOUR (QCF) For those students who have day-to-day involvement with pumps and pumping systems, this course aims to provide the knowledge needed to cover normal situations. Likely candidates are all personnel who manage or are involved in designing, specifying, sourcing, installing, servicing and maintaining pumping equipment. Both courses are accredited by the Open College Network and certificated by BPMA. Visit www.bpma-elearning.co.uk for more information and costs.
BPMA held yet another successful 4-day residential CPSA (Certified Pump System Auditor) course held at their West Bromwich offices in December 2014. The course culminating in certification and eventual personal ID “Certified Pump System Auditor” status following approved audits. For further information relating to the BPMA please contact British Pump Manufacturers Association, National Metalforming Centre, 47 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich B70 6PY, UK Tel: 0121 601 6350 Fax: 0121 601 6373 E-mail: enquiry@bpma.org.uk or visit our website: www. bpma.org.uk The BPMA takes no responsibility for the statements, claims or opinions expressed in this Newsletter
BPMA wishes to thank all members who supported this issue of BPMA News
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SPP PUMPS RECEIVES REGIONAL GROWTH FUND OF £1.12M FOR R&D FACILITY SPP Pumps, leading manufacturer of centrifugal pumps and systems, has won Regional Growth Funding to build a new R&D facility within its Pump Manufacturing Centre in Coleford, UK. Site Director Ken Winn expressed his delight at the funding news saying: “We are thrilled to have received the allocation of funding. Of course we need to work through Due Diligence and other approvals, but this allows us to build a fantastic major pump R&D facility right here in Coleford. This will guarantee high skilled jobs in the area for years to come, ensure local employment growth and help position the UK economy for further export success. This funding will also help our business fulfil our objectives to be the Manufacturer of Pumps - for where it really matters.” The state-of-the-art facility will offer SPP a higher rated power supply, eliminating the need for generator hire. A new packing and despatch area with 2 x 25ft cranes will free up a further 60% of existing floor space to build more centrifugal pump solutions. A new paint spray booth is planned into the facility, and a higher capacity test well will offer improved capability, health and safety and efficiency for the company. SPP Pumps is well respected within industry having recently won ‘Pump Manufacturer of the Year’ for two successive years at the British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) awards in April 2013. Ken continued by saying “The funding will help us to realise our vision for the new facility, giving us much more capacity, improving efficiency and reducing lead times - but most importantly will allow us to manufacture solutions that meet our customer specifications far more effectively.”
For more information contact SPP Pumps, Reading, Berkshire. Tel: 0118932 3123 Fax: 0118932 3302. E-mail: enquiries@spppumps.com Web: www.spppumps.com
You are invited to cast your vote! The Pump Industry Awards saw a record number of nominations this year, demonstrating the scope of success and innovation in 2014. The judging panel is now ready to announce the finalists... to submit your vote visit -
www.pumpindustryawards.com
BOOK YOUR PLACE TODAY!
Gala Aw ards Cerem ony hosted
Babita by Sharm a
www.pumpindustryawards.com hannah@touchwavemedia.co.uk ORGANISED BY:
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BRITISH-BASED PUMP MANUFACTURER ENJOYS INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS The pioneering spirit that characterises specialist pump manufacturer Flotronic Pumps Limited’s approach to innovation and design has also been driving the company’s recent success in developing new markets overseas. Flotronic, the only British-owned specialist manufacturer of airoperated doublediaphragm pumps in the UK, has seen exports as a percentage of total sales rise from just 15% in 2003 to 40% in 2013. 25% of exports go to Europe - but pumps are being sold in increasing numbers across the world including the US and Canada (5%) and the Far East (2%) - with the remaining 8% distributed to the Middle East, India, South America, South Africa and Australasia. The company is seeing particularly high overseas growth in pump sales into its target Pharmaceutical, Food & Beverage, Chemical manufacture and Cosmetics markets, with the two most recently developed products, the ‘Minichem’ - machined from a solid block of PTFE - and the 3-A accredited ‘H’ series hygienic applications pump generating particular interest. Jane Waite, the company’s Managing Director, puts Flotronic’s international success down to three essential factors. “First and foremost,” she says, “you need to be confident that the features and benefits offered by your products are compelling for potential customers. Domestic customers’ feedback that our pumps’ versatility, levels of compliance, unique ‘ONE-NUT’ design ease of maintenance and capability in almost any application gave us the confidence that overseas customers would find our pumps just as desirable.” Infrastructure is the second most important factor on Jane’s reasons for success list. “Flotronic has invested heavily in establishing and supporting local dealer networks. The recruitment process includes an assessment of whether the dealer can deliver on key Flotronic brand values like our commitment to quality and the highest standards of customer care. Support includes literature and other marketing collateral, local PR, high visibility at trade exhibitions and funding help in establishing a credible online presence.” “The third factor,” says Jane, “is to recognise local differences. For example, while not yet particularly important to customers in the UK, we recognised that 3-A Sanitary Standards Inc accreditation for Flotronic’s ‘H’ series hygiene pump would be a requirement of many if not all of our US food industry customers. The ‘H’ series has had to meet the high standards demanded by 3-A, including stringent criteria controlling those design features which affect the cleanliness of the pumps.” Flotronic Pumps Ltd is determined to build on its burgeoning international sales success, with exports as percentage of total sales expected to rise to 50% by 2015, representing some 750 Pumps. “I would encourage all manufacturing companies in the UK to consider exports in their strategic plans,” says Jane. “Building domestic market share, not always easy in highly competitive industries, doesn’t then become the be all and end all of a company’s future success. And there’s also the kudos attached to making a contribution to the UK’s balance of payments.”
For more information contact Flotronic Pumps Ltd, Bolney, West Sussex. Tel: 01444 881 871 Fax: 01444 881 860 E-mail: sales@flotronicpumps.co.uk Web: www.flotronicpumps.co.uk
THE EXTENDED RANGE OF MAGNETA ERP COMPLIANT CIRCULATORS FROM
SMEDEGAARD MAGNETA
ErP compliant circulators represent the latest innovation in pumping technology from Smedegaard. Chris Barrett Managing Director of Smedegaard Pumps Limited says ‘When it comes to maintenance and refurbishment a major problem can be encountered when the pump purchased is substantially larger in physical size when compared to unit in situ. No such problem exists for the installing engineers who choose Magneta. Not only is Magneta extremely compact when compared to competitor models, it is also designed with superior advanced technology in a user friendly package benefiting the installer and consumer. The simplicity for the customer is further enhanced as all models are supplied as standard with full BMS capability and can be programmed by the use of ones finger.’ MAGNETA ADDITIONAL BENEFITS: ENERGY EFFICIENT
• Future-proofed optimised efficiencies, exceeding future energy efficiency regulations. • Magneta models are single phase IP44 Advanced Technology – Simple to use with no gimmicks • Commissioning is straightforward with the press & turn dial. • Integrated display and symbols indicating the operating mode. • Dual pump operation with auto changeover (integrated interface). • Integrated protective and manual functions.
COST-EFFICIENT
• High-efficiency technology combined with speed control • Advanced Eco Mode offer maximum savings. • Fully integrated communication interfaces that save on both investment and commissioning costs.
VERSATILE
• Magneta covers a broad application range spanning from heating to cooling with fluid temperatures from -10°C to +110°C. • Comprehensive product range with standard pipe connections.
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NEW WATERWORKS FACILITY IS TRULY INNOVATIVE
GOULDS PUMPS ISO PROCESS PUMPS NOW COME WITH A 5 YEAR WARRANTY
As the 2nd biggest city in Denmark, Aarhus faces many of the same challenges that are seen in places with a high population density. This includes delivering clean water as effectively as possible and recently they have developed a groundbreaking solution to achieve this. At Truelsjerg Waterworks a new system, supported by Grundfos Pumps, has been installed that is a closed water treatment system that has changed traditional waterwork designs by pioneering a method that will deliver the highest possible water quality. This approach means that now there is an entire, enclosed above ground water treatment system. Which results in an end to open cascade aerators that are vulnerable to contaminates. This visionary solution utilises a wide range of Grundfos Pumps that supports all the processes needed for a pressurised closed water systems at every point from source right through to delivery at the tap. Grundfos were chosen as the ideal partner as they had the perfect range of stainless steel pumps, motors with built-in frequency control and a wide range of sensors that work to support the system. In addition, Grundfos also supplied a range of pumps to support the centres full-scale test facility that will be used by staff and research workers.
What would give to spot a pump failure sooner? With the Goulds iFrame you could.
For more information or Literature request contact Grundfos Pumps Ltd, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire. Tel: 01525 850000 E-mail: grundfosuk@grundfos.com Web:www.grundfos.co.uk
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The iFrame features on Goulds ISO and ANSI process pumps, incorporating the iAlert, vibration and temperature are constantly monitored on your pump to ensure your process runs at its optimum condition with strong visual indication in the form of three flashing LED’s, its never been easier to see how a pumps performing. When the iAlert is first activated at startup it sets an operating benchmark for temperature and vibration of your pump, with any change in either of these conditions outside of acceptable limits the iAlert notifies you by green flashing LED’s turning red. So when you’re on the morning walk around the plant it couldn’t be easier to see how things are running. As the iFrame with iAlert is fitted to Goulds ANSI and ISO process pumps which come with a 5 year warranty you’d have to ask yourself, why not? We just believe it’s better.
For more information contact Goulds Pumps , Axminster, Devon. Tel: 01297 630473 Email: www.gouldspumps.com/Contact-Us Web: www.gouldspumps.com
NEW HMD KONTRO SEALLESS RANGE BROCHURE All Latest Products & Parameters Now FeaturedSundyne HMD Kontro has announced a comprehensive update to their main product range brochure. This now includes all of their comprehensive range of sealless pumps including recent product introductions Many of the operating parameters for the existing pumps have also been updated. These details are now being integrated into their website and all other literature is being updated. In addition the recently introduced pumps are all featured including: - GSPX: Multi stage - GSPLF: Low flow - LMV 801S: Vertical low flow The opportunity has been taken to give the publication an updated cover design, in yellow, to differentiate with the previous version. You can obtain an electronic copy of the brochure in the downloads section of their website. Please visit www.sundyne.com/hmdkontro. Alternatively for a printed copy or further information, please do not hesitate to contact Vince Lee, on +44 1323 452141 or by email to vince.lee@sundyne.com.
THE CHOICE IS CLEAR WITH THE GRUNDFOS PRODUCT CENTER Having a single source of reference to allow you to make the best pump choice is something Grundfos are very aware of the necessity for. So for many years their product portfolio was supported by industry leading on-line and offline pump selection tools WebCAPS and WinCAPS. After many years of faithful service it became clear that with all the new technology available, we should invest in improving this support system. Following extensive development the new launched Grundfos Product Center has built on the positive elements from its predecessors as well as incorporating new aspects that will make this pump selector, the tool of choice. In fact you can think of the Grundfos Product Center as your own personal assistant for all things Grundfos. It can remember who you are, how you prefer to work and record your recent searches. Simply log in and the Product Center will display any recent and saved items – including complete projects – right on the main page. Another plus is that the entire Product Center system is now optimised for viewing on mobile devices, so you can access it anywhere, from your smartphone or tablet device. A clear choice for pump selection.
For more information contact Grundfos Pumps Ltd, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire. Tel: 01525 850000 Fax: 01525 850011 E-mail: grundfosuk.com Web: www.grundfosuk.co.uk Motors | Automation | Energy | Transmission & Distribution | Coatings
New 2015 EuP legislation. Relax, we have it covered. The new EuP Directive for efficiency of electric motors came into force on 1st January 2015. The W22 range of electric motors from WEG meets or exceeds the requirements. Our CFW range of drives also help to meet the legislation, meaning we can all sleep soundly in the knowledge of reducing our carbon footrpint and saving money. Transforming energy into solutions. www.weg.net
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CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS OFFER GREAT POTENTIAL SAVINGS By Dipl.-Ing. Christoph P. Pauly (KSB Aktiengesellschaft, Frankenthal, Germany) Pump systems are a key technology for numerous applications in diverse industries. They account for a major share of all electricity consumed for industrial purposes. That is why users are now much more concerned about their equipment’s power consumption than they were only a few years ago. Pump systems are a key technology for numerous applications in diverse industries. They account for a major share of all electricity consumed for industrial purposes. That is why users are now much more concerned about their equipment’s power consumption than they were only a few years ago. Depending on the scope of analysis, the potential savings on energy in current industrial systems range between 30 percent and 40 percent. In concrete terms, the German Energy Agency (dena) has calculated that pump system operators in Germany could save as much as 14 billion kWh per year. That would translate into annual savings of 1.12 billion Euros for the operators themselves and a drop of 7.7 million tonnes in CO2 emissions. There are many reasons why much too much energy is still being wasted in connection with pump operation. In processing facilities and refineries, for example, maximum priority is attached to productivity and getting back on stream following repairs. Often, this is achieved at the expense of a hydraulically optimised system. Frequently, when piping systems have been rearranged for production-related reasons, the installed pump sizes are not subsequently adjusted to match. Oversized and undersized valves, inadequate pipe radii and incrusted pipe cross-sections throttle the flow and contribute extensively to the waste of energy. Also, many large chemical facilities have their own power plants and therefore enjoy access to lower cost electricity.
and electrical data such as momentary motor outputs. Pump bearing housing vibrations can also be measured. This data provides information on the wear state or condition of each pump, hence enabling identification of misalignment, shaft deflection, unbalance and imposed vibrations from the periphery. All these factors have major effects on pump availability and service life. Service specialists use the recorded data yielded to carry out a detailed Figure 3: Data loggers record analysis. They make suggestions on various cost- all of a pump’s relevant data cutting measures and calculate the anticipated payback periods. Then, if an operator decides for weeks at a time. to implement one of the proposed measures, the service specialists will perform a second set of measurements on conclusion of the project in order to demonstrate and validate the measure’s success. In practice, a detailed analysis of a pump’s operating behaviour often reveals that it is not running at its optimal, energy-efficient operating point. A common cause for operating outside the design conditions is due either to system oversizing or to normal temporary variations in flow rate arising from system processes. If power input is not adjusted to demand via some form of system control, valuable energy is wasted. The pump’s power input can be matched to the precise requirements of the system by altering its speed. In the case of closed-circuit systems, energy savings of up to 60 percent can be achieved depending on the load profile. The industry offers a variety of technical options which allow energy consumption to be influenced via speed control. These potential savings can be demonstrated using a practical example. An industrial pump transports water with Antifrogen for cooling purposes. The required head is 38 metres. The required cooling water flow rate depends on the process involved and ranges between 200 and 300 cubic metres per hour. During fixed speed operation, the pump consumes 215,467 kWh a year. Assuming a cost of 8 pence per kWh, this adds up to £17,785.56 per annum. However, if the same pump is equipped with a speed control unit with a simple differential pressure control setup keeping the discharge pressure constant, a saving of some £1,568.59 annually can be realised. These potential savings can be exploited with almost any standard frequency inverter.
POTENTIAL SAVINGS ARE DEPENDENT ON THE SYSTEM’S LOAD PROFILE…
Figure 1: Selection chart of the standardised chemical pump series MegaCPK for 2-pole motors running at 50 Hz / 2,900 rpm For new installations, it is relatively easy to select a hydraulically optimal pump. As long as the requirements to be met by the pump are known, a very energy-efficient pump set can be chosen with great accuracy by way of pump selection programs which most manufacturers have on hand for their customers. It is, of course, essential that a large number of closely spaced pump sizes be available to the user (Figure 1), and that the impeller diameters (Figure 2) be trimmed to match the required operating point. It is also of elementary importance that no safety margins be added: even efficient pumps cannot run economically if they are used in the wrong operating mode.
AN AGEING SYSTEM NEEDS MORE CONSIDERATION…
Figure 2: Trimming an impeller to the exact operating point
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If a system has been in service for a number of years, it is not quite so easy to determine its actual saving potential. The first step is to ascertain the pump’s present operating point and mode of operation since all other costcutting measures depend on them. Professional assistance can be quite useful in this connection. Some service specialists are able to utilise special data loggers (Figure 3) to record relevant data over a representative period of time. These instruments measure the flow rates, pump suction and discharge pressures
The most significant cost reductions are achievable if the pump in question frequently operates under low flow conditions. Speed control will not deliver cost savings on pumps where the total volume flow rate is required continuously. In addition, the available range of off-the-shelf variable speed systems for use in potentially explosive atmospheres is still rather small. Indeed, the operators’ myriad different work standards make it nearly impossible for pump manufacturers to economically adapt their “motor-mounted” variable speed systems to the respective set of requirements and then get them certified. The same applies to the new highefficiency drive motors. While they do generate less heat and would therefore be ideal for such applications, their working principle often makes them dependent on an accessory frequency inverter (FI). Of course, one option would be to install the FI outside of the potentially explosive atmosphere. That, however, is a rather unpopular choice, because it would involve extra cabling runs to bridge the longer distances between motor and frequency inverter. The additional cost of sine filters and expensive shielded cables would reduce the achievable savings and extend t h e payback period. Consequently, the job of tapping into the savings potentials that speed control has to offer for pumps in potentially explosive atmospheres is reserved for the operators’ own instrumentation & control departments. Modern centrifugal pumps (Figure 4) have already achieved a level of efficiency that can hardly be further improved. When they appear to be consuming more energy than necessary, Figure4: Standardised chemical it is very probably due to the fact that too little pumps like this MegaCPK have attention has been paid when the pump duty was specified. No pump can operate more already achieved a level of economically than its surrounding system efficiency that could hardly be allows. further improved.