Harnessing the flow

Many frequent repairs and maintenance costs in a pumping system are related to the condition of the valves. Leaking or poorly performing valves can have a major impact on pump efficiency and put a greater strain on equipment. There is a high cost to using older valves, however there are now available computer simulation softwares that can determine the life span of a valve. These softwares can also be used on other components in pump systems and compare alternatives for improving flow control. According to a recent Department of Energy report, pumping systems account for 25 – 50% of the energy consumed by industrial plants. The report also suggested that pump energy consumption can be reduced by up to 20% with better design efficiency. The article asserts that replacing older valves can be more practical than continuing to repair it while driving up maintenance costs. Another alternative is to eliminate valves altogether where they are not needed. Taking simple steps can improve the pumping system efficiency and save industrial plants on maintenance and energy costs.  Read the full Plant Services article.

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