Pumping Systems

A pump’s efficiency can degrade as much as 10% to 25% before it is replaced, according to a study of industrial facilities commissioned by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and efficiencies of 50% to 60% or lower are quite common. However, because these inefficiencies are not readily apparent, opportunities to save energy by repairing or replacing components and optimizing systems are often overlooked.

Define Pumping System Efficiency

System efficiency incorporates the efficiencies of the pump,...

Every industrial facility has a piping network that carries water or other fluids. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), 16% of a typical facility’s electricity costs are for its pumping systems. 

The power consumed to overcome the static head in a pumping system varies linearly with flow, and very little can be done to reduce the static component of the system requirement. However, there are several energy- and money-saving opportunities to reduce the power required to overcome the...

Understanding Your Pumping System Requirements 

Pumps transfer liquids from one point to another by converting mechanical energy from a rotating impeller into pressure energy (head). The pressure applied to the liquid forces the fluid to flow at the required rate and to overcome friction (or head) losses in piping, valves, fittings, and process equipment. The pumping system designer must consider fluid properties, determine end use requirements, and understand environmental conditions. Pumping applications...

When multiple pumps operate continuously as part of a parallel pumping system, there can be opportunities for significant energy savings. For example, lead and spare (or lag) pumps are frequently operated together when a single pump could meet process flow rate requirements. This can result from a common misconception—that operating two identical pumps in parallel doubles the flow rate. Although parallel operation does increase the flow rate, it also causes greater fluid friction losses, results in a...

Let's talk about centrifugal pump impellers. These little guys are the backbone of any pumping system, and it's important to keep them happy if you want your system to run smoothly. Unfortunately, one of the biggest culprits of energy waste and lost efficiency is impeller clearance. But don't worry, as a mechanical engineer, you've got the skills to tackle this problem head-on. In this guide, we'll show you how to keep those impellers in top shape and make sure your pumps are running at their best....

Welcome to the Pump Systems Academy, the leading source for solving all issues related to mining and industrial pump systems. Here, we strive to accelerate the transition to sustainable industries through the reduction of energy, water, and wear parts in pumping systems. As plant managers and mechanical engineers, you understand the crucial role that pumps play in industrial applications. That's why we are proud to present this comprehensive guide on the Affinity Laws for Pumps. In this article,...

As engineers, you know how important pumps are for industrial processes to run efficiently. However, when cavitation rears its ugly head, it can quickly undermine even the most advanced pump systems. Cavitation can cause damage to pump components, reduce efficiency, and increase downtime, resulting in significant losses for your company and headaches for you.

At the Pump Systems Academy, we've seen how challenging cavitation can be for maintenance and operations professionals in mining and other...