Putting pressure on pumping costs

5th October 2018

Putting pressure  on pumping costs

PUTTING PUMPS TO WORK The installation of the DAB pump system under way on site

Pumps supplier Mechanical Rotating Solutions (MRS) in July this year completed the installation of a DAB 2-NKVE MCE pump and constant pressure booster set at a change house at one of South Africa’s coal mines.

The installation will enable the constant supply of pressure to 55 showers, 40 toilets, 30 basins and three industrial washing machines.

With pumping systems at mines, the focus is often on production and dewatering aspects related to the mining process and it is often forgotten that the large associated labour force requires showers, basins, toilet facilities, as well as washing machines to keep the mine functioning.

The DAB NKVE MCE series of pumps have been designed and manufactured to meet the constant pressure requirements of modern system engineering solutions.

“Being able to supply a change room of this size with pressure stability holds many advantages for our clients,” says MRS CEO Franscois Steenkamp.

The DAB NKVE MCE systems rely on variable speed, and are activated in cascade after the first part of the system has reached maximum speed. Through modulation, they compensate for the pressure fluctuations of the system.

One of the biggest problems of supplying water under pressure to such a large area is water hammer, whereby the flow rate of fluid in the pipe changes drastically. Water hammering can cause high pressure in pipes, high forces on pipe supports, and even sudden reversals of flow leading to burst pipes, damaged supports and leakage at joints. “Not only does the DAB NKVE MCE pump system address this issue but it also incorporates excellent energy savings of up to 60%, and ensures less maintenance, reduced pump wear and a substantial saving in water usage,” adds Steenkamp.

The DAB NKVE MCE series of vertical multistage centrifugal pumps is suitable for medium to large user water systems that can be used for hot water and cooling water circulation, firefighting and washing systems, drinking water supply and filling of pressure vessels, sprinkler and watering systems and water purification systems.

MRS has been servicing Mpumalanga with its product offering for more than ten years and focuses on pumping equipment, engineered coatings, as well as sealing solutions.

“Pumping accounts for as much as a quarter of a plant’s total motor energy usage. “Having the correct, best of practice piping system designed right from the beginning, a plant can reduce as much as 40% of all energy costs,” highlights Steenkamp.

MRS has been actively working with its clients, offering them the best solution for its needs while simultaneously advising them on products and systems that can not only improve their downtime and efficiency, but also be cost effective.