What are the Primary Considerations for Selecting an Industrial Pump for an Application?
Dec 10, 2021
Need Help?
Our team of engineers is standing by to help you with your next project. Call us at (760) 821-8112 or submit a request.
Selecting an industrial pump application is not as simple as someone might think. In fact, if the most important factors are not considered it can literally spell disaster and cause a company a lot of time and money trying to reverse or correct any issues resulting from having the wrong pump in the application. The following article provides a concise overview of the specific selection criteria that can be used for choosing the best industrial pump for your needs.
This Article Includes
- When is it Time to Replace an Industrial Pump?
- What are the Primary Considerations for Selecting an Industrial Pump for An Application?
When is it Time to Replace an Industrial Pump?
In a study that analyzed the life cycle costs (LCC) of industrial pumps, it was noted that the cost of unexpected downtime and loss of production due to pump failure can nearly equal or even surpass operation or maintenance costs. Therefore, it’s essential to know when to replace your industrial pump.
Recognizing the signs that you’ll soon need a replacement and being proactive can save money, time, and your reputation in the industry.
There are various indications and/or reasons for replacing a pump. The following are some of the more crucial ones:
- Catastrophic failure. Because catastrophic failure will likely damage other parts of a pumping system, it is perhaps the most costly reason for replacing a pump. Hopefully, it can be avoided by recognizing earlier signs.
- Visual wear. A visual inspection may reveal leaks, abnormal residue or deposits overheating, vibration and misalignment, or other indications of extreme wear.
- Audible wear. Some signs of wear are not visible but audible. Pops, squeals, grinding noises, or oscillating fluctuations in the hum of operation may indicate failing components.
- Decreased performance. Even when no audible or visual signs of extreme wear raise a red flag, decreased performance can indicate that it’s time to replace a pump. If you notice a marked decrease in expected performance, replacement may help to avoid more costly failure later.
- Component failure. While a pump motor may be running well, other components may fail or show signs of extreme wear. These can be early indications that it’s time to replace a pump before catastrophic failure.
- System upgrade. At times, newer technologies and products emerge in the industry that makes pumping more efficient or reduce maintenance costs. The decision to upgrade may mean pump replacement as well.
- System correction. Sometimes accumulated experience reveals that the original pump was the wrong choice. Correcting to another pump type or model is another reason for the pump replacement.
DAE Pumps has the resources to help you troubleshoot your pumping system and determine whether you need to replace your pump(s).
What are the Primary Considerations for Selecting a Pump for an Application?
Application Type
DAE Pumps offers high-quality industrial pumps for the following applications:
- Agriculture
- Dewatering
- Dredging
- Mining
- Municipalities
- Oil and Gas
- Paper and Pulp
One pump can severely impact the production of an entire operation. Each application has its own variables and challenges, so feel free to contact the professionals at DAE Pumps for a consultation to help you choose the right pump for your application.
Performance Requirements
Performance requirements include the motor output, flow rate, discharge head, net positive suction head (NPSH), and vacuum requirements. System head can be divided into three components: static head (pressure), elevation, and dynamic head (velocity). Weighing all these factors is crucial in determining the right pump for the job.
Piping and Hoses
Pipe diameter, length, and material have to be factored in, both on the inlet and outlet side of the pump, and friction loss can be a concern in certain applications. Improper pipe or hose sizing can put undue stress on the pump, slowing production, decreasing efficiency, and shortening the life cycle of the pump.
Fluid Properties
Fluid viscosity, specific gravity, temperature, and other properties will affect your calculations. Specific gravity can be likened to the weight the fluid puts on your pump, while viscosity can be compared to the fluid’s internal friction as it moves. Additional considerations like shear sensitivity (how viscosity changes when fluid is pressurized), solids concentration, and hazardous properties (such as flammability or explosivity) are crucial to designing a pumping system and choosing the right pump.
Pump Construction
Based on the application, pumps are constructed with various materials to withstand extreme temperatures, corrosive chemicals, and abrasive materials. Compatibility between a pump and the fluid it’s moving is critical in order to avoid catastrophic failure and personal injury.
Pump Installation and Location
Consider the pump’s environment and the ambient temperature of its location. Will it be submerged or flooded (positioned at the same level or below the fluid being pumped)? Will it need to operate in freezing conditions or high temperatures? Will it be installed inside or outside of the facility? Will it need to resist corrosion, abrasion? Will it need to operate in a hazardous environment?
Motor Power
A rule of thumb is to determine the power you need and then round up to the next highest horsepower rating. But the choices may be more complex than that. More power is needed for viscous fluids or fluids with high specific gravity. An underpowered pump, or a pump that has inadequate power in comparison to the force required to pump the fluid, will increase maintenance costs, impede production, and have a short life cycle.
Certification Requirements
In most industries, certification and compliance will also need to be a consideration. Applications that require a specific certification demand pumps that meet the industry certifications. Some examples are:
- EHEDGE
- CE
- UL
- FDA
- USDA
- ATEX
- And more…
DAE Pumps – Going Above and Beyond!
DAE Pumps is a premium industrial slurry pumps and dredge equipment manufacturer. Offering unparalleled performance for many different industries, DAE Pumps are ideally suited for Oil & Gas, Mining, Construction, Marine, Municipal, Water & Wastewater, and many other industries. Along with the high-quality pumps DAE Pumps offers, we also provide world-class service to assist you no matter what the pumping challenge.
DAE Pumps Product Categories
All pumps by DAE Pumps are made of the highest quality materials; they are durable, long-lasting, and provide value beyond your expectations. No matter your industry, DAE Pumps has a pump specifically suited for your needs.
Need Help?
Our team of engineers is standing by to help you with your next project. Call us at (760) 821-8112 or submit a request.