Ebara Corporation has consolidated its Ebara International Corporation- Fluid Handling and Custom Pump Divisions into a new independent company, Ebara Pumps Americas Corporation, effective April 1, 2018.

Ebara Pumps Americas Corporation will continue to provide engineered pumps, pump products and related services for the industrial, building services and municipal markets, and will begin offering locally supported custom pump products from its Rock Hill, SC headquarters.

Ebara Pumps Americas Corporation will also be expanding the size of its standard pump distribution center in Sparks, NV. The move allows the company’s Standard Pump Division to further its growth, while continuing to offer reliable application expertise and responsive support including aftermarket replacement parts services. The Custom Pump Division represents Ebara Corporation’s centrifugal pump products for North, Central, and South America as well as the nations of the Caribbean. Product applications include municipal, power generation, oil and gas and related industries such as chemical, petrochemical, fertilizer, and other process oriented industries.

For Sale

Weir Puts Pump and Valve Businesses Up for Sale

The Weir strategy is to prioritize opportunities for growth in Minerals and Oil & Gas. This reflects supportive long-term fundamentals for these end markets and Weir's core strengths in highly abrasive aftermarket-intensive applications that require comprehensive global support. Consistent with this prioritization the Board of Weir will initiate a process to sell the Flow Control division. This process will focus on maximizing value for shareholders, with all options to be considered and no fixed timetable. Proceeds will be used to further reduce leverage and to fund future investment in growth in its core platforms. The current assumption is that proceeds would not be received before 2019.

New Facilities

Xylem Opens New Warsaw Facility

Xylem Inc., a global water technology company, has opened a new 1,100 square meters commercial facility in Warsaw as part of ongoing investment in Poland. This new plant, which includes office space, a service and maintenance hub and a warehouse, brings Xylem’s total investment in Poland to more than zł67 million. Xylem currently employs almost 350 people at sites in Strzelin and Warsaw. Further recruitment at the new Warsaw facility, where 45 employees are based, is expected in the coming months as the company enhances its sales, marketing and business development capabilities.

Xylem works with almost 50 Polish suppliers, representing a multi-million spend on electric motor components and drivers annually.

Alessandro Bertuzzo, Regional Director for Eastern Europe, Xylem, said “The Polish market is one of the fastest growing in Europe with a vibrant, young population of 40 million and we enjoy a strong market presence here due to our comprehensive portfolio and extensive expertise. We are experiencing strong demand across the three primary market segments we operate in – industrial, public utility and building services. The manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), released by IHS Markit, has been positive for the past three years and increased EU funding is driving investment in more efficient, smart technologies in the public utility sector. Similarly, the commercial and residential building services segment is in a growth phase, boosted by increased business spending capacity and personal incomes.”

The new facility in Warsaw follows major investment in Poland by Xylem during 2014/2015 when the company doubled the size of its factory located in Strzelin to more than 17,000 square meters. The factory, which manufactures large wet rotor circulators and a range of other high efficiency and smart Lowara-branded pumping solutions, has been designed as a ‘centre of excellence’ in water engineering technology. The plant adopts a Lean Six Sigma approach and a continuous improvement culture, with a focus on consistently meeting customer needs, product quality, durability, delivery time and reduced waste.

Gardner Denver Builds New Dubai Pump Facility

Gardner Denver Petroleum & Industrial Pumps, solutions provider to the drilling, well servicing and frac pumps market, has announced the opening of a Dubai facility, expanding the organization’s international reach. Jebel Ali is a large commercial port and business hub on the southern outskirts of Dubai. The facility’s ground breaking took place in late 2017, and construction is expected to be complete by June 2018. Gardner Denver’s pressure pumping, drilling and well service segments will all operate from this location, said the company.

The Jebel Ali, Dubai facility is designed to serve all Eastern Hemisphere markets, including the Middle East, China, Asia, Europe and Russia.

Ebara Opens New Plant in Italy

Ebara Pumps Europe S.p.A. (“Ebara Pumps Europe”), a group company of Ebara Corporation, moved pump production function to a new pump plant within Vicenza, Italy, and conducted the ceremony of inaugurating the new plant on April 12^th. The purpose of the pump factory relocation is to bolster its production capacity, corresponding to the business expansion in the growing worldwide pumps market. The new plant sits on a site area that is about double the size of the former facility. The new plant increases the production capacity by half of standard pumps and motors, and also has an integrated distribution warehouse for effective production and distribution.

Ebara has maintained a branch in Italy for around 30 years and, with the plant in Trento as well as the new plant, has provided stainless pumps from Italy to the world through the group company. Ebara will continue to step up its optimal production and supply of pumps worldwide.

Finance

Sulzer Buys Back Shares from Russian Shareholder

Sulzer announced on April 9, 2018, that it had entered into a binding agreement with its former majority shareholder Renova to acquire five million Sulzer shares from Renova.

On April 11, 2018, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued a license authorizing the completion of the transfer of the shares. This share transfer has been completed and Renova is now a minority shareholder, holding 48.83 percent of the shares in Sulzer. Sulzer now holds 15.24 percent of its own shares.

Sulzer confirms that it is no longer a blocked party or subject to sanctions under U.S. law. The company can now resume normal operations globally. To the extent that its assets have been blocked, Sulzer is taking the necessary steps to achieve timely reversal.

The business activities of Sulzer have been considerably disrupted, but the company does not believe that its long-term performance will be affected.

People

Turbomachinery Lab Names New Director

The Turbomachinery Laboratory (Turbo Lab), a center of the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station and part of The Texas A&M University System, has appointed Dr. Eric Petersen as its new director. Petersen assumes the post from Dr. Dara Childs, who retired in January after serving as director for more than 30 years.

Petersen will oversee all operations of the Turbo Lab and Symposia Office, including industry- and government-sponsored research, education, and workforce development initiatives including short courses and symposia.

Petersen is a 10-year veteran of the Turbo Lab. His research encompasses gas dynamics, propulsion, combustion, shock waves, chemical kinetics, optical diagnostics and spectroscopy, laminar and turbulent flames, and rocket combustion. He has authored more than 400 journal and conference papers in these areas. He is vice-president of the Institute for Dynamics of Explosions and Reactive Systems and an associate editor of the Journal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power and the Journal of Propulsion and Power. He is a fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, The Combustion Institute and the American Society for Engineering Education.

Petersen holds three degrees in mechanical engineering: a bachelor’s from the University of Central Florida, a master’s from the University of Florida, and a doctorate from Stanford University. Before coming to Texas A&M, Petersen taught at the University of Central Florida. Prior to becoming a professor, he was an analytical engineer in the combustion group at Pratt & Whitney for three years, and a research scientist in the propulsion science group at the Aerospace Corporation for four years.

Turbo Lab faculty, staff, and students conduct research for industry and government entities in a state-of-the-art facility located in College Station, Texas, USA. The 37,000 square foot high-bay facility is equipped with 12 vibration damped test cells and a variety of compressors that provide air for test rigs with capacities ranging from 4000 scfm at 120 psig to 1350 scfm at 300 psig.

BJM President Retires and New President Announced

Ron Woodward, president of BJM Pumps, Old Saybrook, Conn., has retired, effective March 30, 2018, after spending 45 years in the pump industry. May River Capitol, Chicago, acquired BJM Pumps in August 2017. The BJM management team will now report to Brian Comiskey, who joined the company last December.

Alfa Laval Inc. Announces New President and CEO

Jo Vanhoren is the new president and CEO of Alfa Laval Inc. He was also named president of Alfa Laval’s North American “cluster” which includes its sales and service organizations in the U.S. and Canada. The company offers heat transfer, separation, and fluid handling products through a sales network of direct and indirect channels.

Vanhoren assumes these responsibilities after serving as managing director of Alfa Laval Iberica (Spain and Portugal) since 2012, then as president of the Southern Europe “cluster,” which includes Iberica; France and Northwest Africa; and the Adriatic (Italy, Greece, Israel, Malta, and Monaco). His new responsibilities are part of the company’s new strategic direction announced in 2016-2017, encompassing three industry-oriented divisions containing 12 differentiated business units and eight geographical sales “clusters.”

Vanhoren is based at the Alfa Laval facility in Richmond, Virginia.

Hydraulic Institute Adds New Officers for 2018-2019

The Hydraulic Institute (HI) announced new leadership during the 2018 HI Annual Conference. Paul Behnke was appointed to Vice-President, Certification & Technical Programs while three new members have joined the Board of Directors for three-year terms:

• Scott King – Vice-President, Gorman-Rupp, Mansfield Division

• Brian Sweeney – President, Crane Pumps & Systems, Inc.

• Christopher Wiseman – President, Commercial and Industrial Motors and Drives, Nidec Motor Corporation

New President for Tuthill Vacuum and Blower

Andy Tuthill has been promoted to President of Tuthill Vacuum & Blower Systems effective January 29, 2018.

Andy relocated to Springfield in 2015 as Director of Manufacturing and was promoted to the position of Vice President of Operations in 2016. During his two-year tenure Andy and his team achieved record productivity, on-time delivery, and inventory turns.

Prior to his roles at TVBS, Andy worked two years at Tuthill Transfer Systems within Product Management and Operations. Before Tuthill, Andy served our country for eight years as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy.

Andy has a Master's in Business Administration from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, a Bachelor of Science from Vanderbilt University, and a diploma from the Naval Nuclear Power School & Prototype.

Niels Due Jensen Steps Down as Chairman of Board for Grundfos Foundation

The long-term Group President and Chairman of the Board of Grundfos, Niels Due Jensen, turns 75 on March 8, and takes this opportunity to withdraw himself from the position as Chairman of the Board of the primary owner of Grundfos, the Poul Due Jensen Foundation.

When Poul Due Jensen passed away in 1977, Niels Due Jensen assumed the overall leadership of the Group, and stayed as Group President and CEO until 2003. From 2003-2011, he was Chairman of the Board of Grundfos, and from 2011 until present Chairman of the Board of the Poul Due Jensen Foundation, the primary owner of Grundfos. In addition to the positions of trust at Grundfos, he has taken his part in a fair share of board-work during the years, among others in the Federation of Danish Industries, DUBA B8, The Danish Export Council, and the Business Council for Sustainable Development.

The Grundfos Group today employs 19,200 people, consists of 83 companies in 56 countries and is the world’s largest in circulator pumps.

Niels Due Jensen leaves the position as Chairman of the Board of the Poul Due Jensen Foundation to former CEO of ALK Abelló, Jens Bager. Niels Due Jensen’s daughter Annette Due Jensen steps into the board of the foundation.

Projects

Pfeifer Vacuum Supplies Turbopumps to CERN

Pfeiffer Vacuum has received yet another major order for turbopumps and turbo pumping stations from CERN. CERN is situated in Geneva on the Franco-Swiss border and is the largest center for particle physics research in the world. Its main business is fundamental physics – finding out what the universe is made of and researching the basic constituents of matter. The particle accelerator LHC (Large Hadron Collider) has a circumference of some 27 kilometers and is used for colliding proton and ion beams at nearly the speed of light. The accelerated particles travel in beam lines, which require ultra-high vacuum (UHV) conditions. These beam lines are pre-evacuated with turbo pumping stations. Furthermore, turbopumps with a very high compression ratio for light gases are responsible for generating the insulation vacuum. The insulation vacuum is necessary for the operation of the superconducting magnets at a temperature of -271 °C.

CERN was founded in 1954 and now employs around 2,500 staff and hosts more than 10,000 visiting scientists from all over the world.

Framo Wins Several Offshore Orders

Alfa Laval has won another new order to supply Framo pumping systems to an FPSO (Floating Production Storage Offloading) vessel in the North Sea. The order has a value of approximately SEK 125 million. This was the fourth large offshore order for Framo pumping system last month.

An order to supply Framo pumping systems to an FLNG (Floating Liquid Natural Gas) vessel to be built in South Korea was also secured in March. The contract has a value of approximately SEK 50 million.

One Framo system was ordered for installation a floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel to be built in China. The order is valued at approximately SEK 70 million.

The first order comprises offshore pumping systems and emergency generators that will be part of the platform safety and emergency power systems to an oil platform in the North Sea. This order was valued at approximately SEK 170 million.

Energy Recovery Providing Pumps for Saudi Desalination Projects

Energy Recovery Inc has secured orders worth US$10.1 million to supply its PX Pressure Exchanger and pump technologies for water projects in Saudi Arabia. The orders are expected to ship in the second and third quarters of 2018.

Energy Recovery will supply its PX-Q300 Pressure Exchangers, VPXP circulation pumps and AquaBold high pressure pumps for multiple desalination facilities, which will produce up to 470, 000 cubic meters of water per day. Energy Recovery estimates the PX devices will reduce the facilities’ power consumption for all projects by 50 MW, saving over 431 GWh of energy per year, and helping the facilities avoid over 258,000 tons of CO₂ emissions per year.

“Historically, the Saudi Arabian market was difficult for membrane desalination technologies to penetrate as low-cost, local power enabled technologies such as thermal desalination initially gained majority market share,” explained Rodney Clemente, Energy Recovery’s vice president, Water. “Due to advancements in seawater reverse osmosis technologies and increased awareness in energy preservation, there has been a shift from thermal desalination to seawater reverse osmosis solutions.”

Energy Recovery first deployed its PX Pressure Exchanger technology into Saudi Arabia in 2013 and has captured eight mega project references over the past five years.

Ebara Ships Large Submersible Pump to Vietnam

Ebara Corporation shipped a large-size submersible motor pump to a pump station in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam during March. This submersible motor pump with a 1,000 mm-bore makes it one of the largest of its kind. Typically, submersible pumps have a bore that is 500 mm or smaller.

In Vietnam, which has recently undergone significant development, the volume of water that must be treated at a pump station is increasing due to flood countermeasures taken to address population growth and urbanization. This update will triple the total drainage capabilities of the pump station. The large volume of sewage collected in the trunk sewer from the sewerage system is pumped. Moreover, the pump is lighter and more compact, enabling it to be installed in the limited space of the pump station’s existing facility.

Model	DSC
Discharge rate × Total head × Motor output	1 000mm discharge bore: 142.7m³/min × 14 m × 460 kW
Delivery destination	Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Shipping date	March 2018

PG Flow Solutions Selling Hypochlorite Pump to Norway Offshore Platform

PG Flow Solutions has provided a hypochlorite pump skid for Statoil’s Aasta Hansteen platform, following the delivery of a large chemical injection module and sump pump packages to the same installation in 2015.

The latest delivery was part of a subcontractor agreement with Hyundai Heavy Industries, which has been responsible for constructing both the Aasta Hansteen SPAR substructure and the platform topside.

“Our hypochlorite pump system consists of a membrane pump that is used to inject small amounts of hypochlorite in the freshwater that is supplied to the platform from PSVs, in order to fully sterilize the water before human consumption. We have a long track record of supplying systems like this to offshore platforms,” said Kevin Rose, PG’s project manager for the delivery.

Hypochlorite is highly corrosive, so all the wetted parts are fabricated in titanium to avoid corrosion, and meet the lifetime demands for the equipment.

The Aasta Hansteen platform is currently located at Digernessundet, Stord, Norway, before being towed to the field later this spring.

Sulzer Wins Large Pump Order from GE India

Sulzer India has been contracted to supply 21 barrel-type boiler feed pump sets for GE Power India Limited. The pumps are destined for the new three thermal power plants, i.e., 3x660MW Ghatampur, 2x660MW Obra “C” UPRVUL, 2x660MW Jawaharpur JVUNL. Those plants are being built in Uttar Pradesh, India, and owned by Newveli Uttar Pradesh Power Ltd, Uttar Pradhesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited and Jawaharpur Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited, respectively. The delivery is scheduled from mid-2018 to mid-2019.

Included in the orders are 21 barrel-type boiler feed pumps (20MW drive) and 21 booster pumps. The pumps are specifically designed for use in arduous industrial applications and are optimized for high-efficiency operations. The scope of supply also includes 12 condensate extraction pumps and 14 heater drain pumps. All pump sets will be engineered, assembled, and packaged in India.

Sulzer is a key player in the supercritical power segment and investing in employees and sites in India, setting up a new 8MW test bed in Mumbai.

Andritz Supplying Pumps Turbines to Moroccan Pumped Storage

International technology group Andritz has received an order – as part of a consortium – from l’Office Nationale de l’Électricité et de l’Eau potable (ONEE) for supply of hydro- and electro-mechanical equipment for the new Abdelmoumen pumped storage hydropower plant located on the River Issen in Taroudant Province, about 140 km southwest of Marrakech, Morocco. The order value for Andritz is over 120 million euros. Construction work will start in the first half of 2018 and is expected to be completed in 2022.

Andritz’s scope of supply comprises design, manufacturing, delivery, installation, supervision, and commissioning of two 175 MW reversible pump turbines, motor generators, and electrical power systems. The consortium leader, the French company Vinci Construction Grands Projets, will perform all of the important civil engineering work for the project. Both companies are combining their expertise to jointly realize the technically challenging 3 km steel-lined waterway, consisting of a 2 km-long penstock, more than 700 m of tunnels made of sections of between 3.5 and 5 m in diameter, and three shafts up to 60 m in height.

To provide a reliable base for the design of the pump turbines, Andritz conducted broad research and model testing activities. Operating under the outstanding, high net head of about 554 m, the Andritz design ensures that the two pump turbines are able to accommodate 20 rapid mode changes per day and at the same time meet both the high efficiency and reliability requirements for many years to come.

Abdelmoumen will cover peak-load energy demands and provide rapid response power to regulate the Moroccan grid.

Sulzer Selling Pumps to Chinese Solar Plant

Sulzer has been contracted to supply 18 pumps for both solar and power islands of the Aksay 50MW CSP plant in China. Aksay is a molten-salt parabolic trough plant with a 15-hours molten-salt heat storage system.

To promote renewable energy, the Chinese government has launched a first batch of 20 CSP pilot projects using various technologies: central tower, parabolic trough and linear fresnel. Most projects will be equipped with a molten-salt heat storage system to last between 6 to 15 hours. The Aksay plant is one of these 20 pilot projects.

A dedicated Sulzer team including engineers from China, Belgium, Spain, Switzerland and USA worked closely together to develop the optimal comprehensive pump package for this project. The package includes boiler feed pumps, condensate extraction pumps, molten salt pumps and attemperation pumps. The pumps will be manufactured in Sulzer’s factories in China and Belgium.

The Sulzer Suzhou factory in China is one the main production units for the power market – focusing on domestic and export markets with its state-of-the-art order-related engineering, packaging and testing facilities. Furthermore it has the capability to manufacture one of the most diverse product ranges within Sulzer’s Global Operations network.

T-T Makes Split Case Pumps for Middle East Power Station Water Supply

T-T have fabricated and tested at their Onneley works in Woore, Cheshire, England, six heavy duty TT NSC horizontal Split-Case pumps complete with 15kW, 380V Siemens motors. T-T manufactured base plates and guards for the sets, then aligned the motor and pumps to ensure there was a seamless operation. Once testing was completed the pump sets were boxed to meet export packaging standards for the Middle East; the set was supplied complete with ten years’ worth of spares and tools to maintain the pumps in situ. The pumps were supplied to the Middle East to a process engineering company, for water supply within a power station and have a capacity of 100m³/h, a head of 35m and a speed of 1480rpm.

Split-Case pumps are suitable for a wide range of applications including clean water supply, cooling water, process water and for high flows. The pumps impeller is supported by bearings on both sides with its heavy duty construction and components that minimize vibration to ensure longevity for the pump lifecycle. Split-Case pumps are efficient and reliable, guaranteeing a cost-effective long running life and easy maintenance design.

New Products

Atlas Copco Adds High flow Pumps to Dewatering Line

Atlas Copco Portable Energy has expanded its offering for the dewatering market with the launch of over thirty new heavy-duty, high capacity pumps. This includes the addition of three high-flow models to its PAS range of centrifugal dry prime pumps. The new pumps are capable of accommodating flows of up to 1400 cubic meters per hour.

Dependent on the range, pumps can be supplied on a standard pump block, a basic or flexi-skid, or as part of a trailer, crate or fully containerized package.

Atlas Copco’s offering for the dewatering market comprises of highly efficient wet and dry prime centrifugal pumps for construction, drainage and emergency applications, plus specialized models for wellpoint applications and pumping abrasive liquids and bentonite mud. A new piston positive displacement pump has been launched that is specially designed to run dry without damaging internal components. It is ideally suited for wellpoint applications where the volume and depth of water is low.

The new pump range is Atlas Copco branded, although the Varisco name is retained as part of the VAR range of centrifugal wet prime pumps and will therefore remain synonymous with first-class dewatering solutions. The Varisco brand will also continue be used exclusively for the industrial pump range.

To offer customers extra flexibility, all ranges can be supplied with a diesel engine or an electric motor as part of Atlas Copco’s E-Pump concept. Furthermore, up to six modular configurations are possible per range. Dependent on the range, pumps can be supplied on a standard pump block, a basic or flexi-skid, or as part of a trailer, crate or fully containerized package.

As well as its seven centrifugal and piston positive placement pump ranges, Atlas Copco offers portable submersible dewatering pumps as part of its WEDA+ range. The range recently underwent a design overhaul, resulting in the introduction of five innovative pumps that offer up to 20 percent overall reduction in power consumption compared to previous models.

Sundyne’s Industrial Pumps Strengthen Suction Conditions in Boiler Feed Water Applications

Sundyne, a global leader in the design and manufacture of pumps and compressors, announced that its Sunflo industrial grade pumps have effectively addressed suction transient conditions in boiler feed water applications in universities and hospitals throughout the United States.

Steam power and cogeneration plant operators are rapidly replacing segmented ring pumps with Sunflo industrial grade pumps. In each case, the physical size of the boiler room limits the vertical distance between the deaerator and the boiler feed water pumps, as these constraints are often set by the height of the plant's roofline. As a result, Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) available to pumps is limited, making the plants susceptible to suction transient conditions that enable vapor to travel from the deaerator to the pump, causing cavitation, pump failures and power plant shutdowns.

Sunflo integrally geared high-pressure pumps feature thrust bearings as part of their unique modular shaft assembly, which is sized to handle axial thrust without problematic balancing devices. This feature enables Sunflo pumps to withstand upset conditions common to cogeneration plants, while also simplifying service access.

The impellers on Sunflo pumps feature unique suction inducer technology, which is optimized to deliver low NPSH requirements - eliminating pump cavitation. Sunflo pumps also leverage Sundyne's field-proven high pressure impeller technology that is optimized to deliver high head.

Sunflo pumps are well suited to address the aggressive nature of boiler feed water applications, featuring 316-stainless steel construction as a standard, with higher alloys available, compared to segmented ring pumps that are commonly constructed from cast iron or carbon steel. The single-stage design simplicity and compact footprint requires approximately 50 percent less steel than segmented ring pumps.

A more efficient seal cooling process, which recirculates the process fluid from the seal chamber through a seal flush cooler and back into the seal chamber, is now available for Sunflo pumps. This efficient process reduces fouling and requires less water and energy for cooling, compared to API-Plan 21 cooling processes, which are widely used with segmented ring pumps.

"Heating and power plant operators at universities such as Princeton have run into problems when they've attempted to deploy segmented ring pumps," said Sundyne's Industrial Business Unit Leader Dustin Moran. "We worked with the engineers at Princeton to replace their segmented ring pumps with Sunflo Industrial Grade pumps. As a result, Princeton increased the efficiency of their plant, and they've substantially reduced the amount of maintenance required to keep their pumps operating at peak efficiency."

SPX Flow’s Waukesha Cherry-Burrell Releases New PD Pump

Through its Waukesha Cherry-Burrell brand, SPX Flow has 60 years of experience in the design, manufacture and application of PD pump technology.

The innovative, new pumps are 3-A certified and can be cleaned-in-place (CIP) as standard. Connection of the rotor and shaft is completely sealed from the product zone to prevent any contamination and reduces the risk of internal corrosion. The front loaded seals are easy to maintain, reduce maintenance times and are available in a choice of materials and types; including single and double mechanical and O-ring versions to suite a wide variety of process applications. The pumps further provide the versatility of bi-directional flow capability and 3-way mounting for easy integration into process systems.

Designed for operating up to 500 psi (34.5 bar) pressure and 300°F (149°C) temperature as standard, the Universal 3 offers customers exceptional robustness for long life operation. The values vary depending on the pump size and rating option. Key features include a heavy duty stainless steel frame, double tapered bearings, positive lubrication of bearings and the use of a wave spring to extend outer seal life. Shorter, large diameter shafts made from 17-4PH stainless steel reduce overhung loads, improve seal life and provide greater torque capacity; which enables the pumps to be used in higher pressure applications.

Close running clearance rotors reduce slippage and add benefit in terms of improved sanitary performance and longevity. Combined with a long sealing path from inlet to outlet, the pump is further designed for low slip operation, high efficiency, good priming capability and effective flow control.

When it comes to pumping high viscosity fluids containing large particles; high efficiency is achieved from rotors with large fluid cavities and easy entry, anti-cavitation ports. Even for non-lubricating and abrasive fluids, the pump is designed to maximize service life as it has no bearings in contact with the process fluid, no internal sliding or rolling contact, and no rotor-to-rotor contact.

KSB Develops Gigantic Wastewater Pumps

In response to the worldwide increase in extra large waste water projects, KSB SE & Co. KGaA, Frankenthal, Germany, has significantly extended its range of large dry-installed wastewater pumps. The pump manufacturer has developed an extra 15 sizes to add to its Sewatec pump series.

The maximum flow rate of the largest version will be up to 33,000 m³/h with a drive rating exceeding one megawatt. The Sewatec type series comprises horizontally or vertically installed, single-stage volute casing pumps in back pull-out design. Depending on the fluid handled they can be fitted with a variety of impeller types, such as multi-channel impellers and free-flow impellers or single-vane impellers.

The casings come with a replaceable casing wear ring. Depending on their size, they are designed with or without an inspection hole. The suction nozzles are always arranged axially. For the discharge nozzles, customers can choose between a radial and a tangential arrangement. Grease-packed rolling element bearings, sealed for life, absorb the bearing forces. A range of shaft seals is available for selection, including various bi-directional mechanical seals and a number of different gland packings.

A worldwide trend towards larger and larger wastewater projects, for example in Mexico City or London, sees gigantic tunnels of unprecedented dimensions being built. This has given rise to a demand in larger and larger wastewater pumps.

Alfa Laval Expands Range of UltraPure Pumps

Alfa Laval is expanding its successful range of UltraPure pharmaceutical pumps with an even larger selection. Whether a pharmaceutical or biotech process requires a centrifugal or PD (positive displacement) pump, the complete range of Alfa Laval UltraPure pumps cover virtually any pharma or biotech need.

The expanded Alfa Laval UltraPure range includes the newly released Alfa Laval LKH Prime UltraPure, a greater selection of the well-known Alfa Laval LKH UltraPure, the new Alfa Laval SX UltraPure and the streamlined high-performance Alfa Laval Solid-C UltraPure.

The Alfa Laval LKH Prime UltraPure sets the new standard in self-priming pharmaceutical pumps. Primarily used for cleaning-in-place duties containing entrained air, Alfa Laval LKH Prime UltraPure can also pump product, further reducing capital investment.

Alfa Laval LKH UltraPure delivers maximum uptime and high efficiency for pharmaceutical applications. A precision-engineered pump and motor provide optimal efficiency with gentle product treatment. 

The new Alfa Laval SX UltraPure offers low pulsation and gentle pumping, and is designed specifically for transporting sensitive liquids efficiently and effectively. It is made for the hygienic and high-purity applications of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.

Alfa Laval SolidC UltraPure pumps strike the perfect balance between price and performance. This standardized centrifugal pump is ideal for use in duties such as cleaning-in-place (CIP) and intermittent product pumping.

KSB Ties Pumps to IIOT

KSB is presenting a new pump monitoring system called KSB Guard. Networked vibration and temperature sensors fitted directly to the pump make availability at plant level transparent for the first time. The system ensures that changes in the operating behavior of the machine are detected at an early stage, and maintenance work can be better planned, without having to be on site with the pump.

Unlike previous systems, KSB Guard is ideally suited for retrofitting. The sensor unit is attached to the bearing bracket or the drive lantern of the pump using a magnet and adhesive, and can be mounted during operation, with no need for changes to the machine. A battery unit, which is also supplied, provides self-sufficient power supply.

The data, which is captured hourly, is transferred directly and wirelessly in encrypted form to the KSB Cloud via a gateway for processing. Users can query the status data of all monitored pumps at any time and from any location using their mobile phone, a tablet or a PC, without having to be on site. For maximum coverage in the field, KSB Guard establishes a mesh network within the monitored pumps, thereby minimizing the number of gateways required.

In addition to current status data and recorded trends, other information on the pump – including the operating manual and exploded view – can be called up with just a few clicks. This gives the users quick and easy access to a comprehensive overview of the technical status of their pump population. In the event of the pump requiring maintenance, users also have all the necessary data at their fingertips.

If the average vibration velocity or the temperature exceeds a predefined or user-configured limit value, the system creates warnings or alerts. These can be delivered to the user via e-mail or push messages, as required, enabling action to be taken rapidly if the worst comes to the worst. The new device is designed for centrifugal pumps from the manufacturer’s product range as well as for corresponding competitor pumps.

The associated app or the web portal enables the user to view the current load condition and the load profile of their fixed speed pumps at any time. The new system builds on the technologies already employed in earlier monitoring and analysis units.

The aim of the newly developed solution was to create a cost-effective interface to the Internet of Things for the vast number of pumps in operation worldwide.

GEA Develops New High-pressure Hygienic Pumps for Dairies

GEA Develops its first high-pressure pump for membrane filtrations such as reverse osmosis and nanofiltration in dairies.The GEA Hilge HYGIA H is a systematic further development of the GEA pump portfolio, and expands the range of products for the dairy industry.

Designed for system pressures up to 64 bar, outstanding cleanability characteristics and a modular motor connection, the high-pressure pump meets international standards and specifications, and helps demanding customers around the world optimize their total cost of ownership.

The new high-pressure pump is based on the “HYGIA” premium range of hygienic pumps, which has been proven for decades and is suitable for a large number of viscous fluids and applications as a result of its high surface quality and adaptability. It is designed to pump fluids as well as homogeneous media containing air or gas and withstands a system pressure of 64 bar. “40 bar is standard in the dairy industry”, says Martin Zickler, product manager for hygienic pumps. “With a 64 bar system pressure, the successful line of pumps can now cover the high pressure ranges required for membrane filtration in whey processing, meaning even more valuable substances can be extracted.” Producers are increasingly attaching importance to this because modern membrane processes significantly increase the value added in fractionation and concentration of whey and milk protein.

GEA's pump specialists have been concentrating mainly on beverages; however, the focus—previously on breweries—is now turning to dairy applications. “GEA already has a wide range of solutions in this segment. The new high-pressure pump closes a gap in our product range, and now enables us to tailor complete membrane filtration solutions to our customers.” It is available in two sizes, of which the large variant—powered by a 45 kilowatt motor—delivers a volume flow of up to 200 cubic meters per hour and reaches a maximum delivery height of 72 meters.

In order to facilitate cleanability for hygienically sensitive applications—such as in milk processing—GEA opts for a forged casing instead of a cast metal casing for product-wetted components. However, both cleanability and 3-A certification were important parameters for GEA in the development of the pump. All materials have therefore been carefully selected for use in hygienic processes. The casings are made of forged CrNiMo (1.4404) and have a nonporous and cavity-free surface.

GEA has designed the Hilge HYGIA H to use the flexible Adapta motor connection: It enables the pump to remain in the pipeline when the motor needs to be replaced. The entire system does not need to be re-sterilized or cleaned. “Experience has shown that customers choose an Adapta motor connection when the demands are particularly high. In the pharmaceutical industry—where cleaning time and effort has a massive impact—the percentage has already reached 80 to 90 percent. The demand for flexible, cost-saving solutions is also increasing significantly in the food industry”, says Zickler, explaining why GEA also uses this bearing bracket for its new high-pressure pump.

Thanks to the modular design of the Adapta motor connection, the pumps can be equipped with a wide variety of standard motors, allowing them to easily meet all country-specific requirements for electric motors. This will also make the GEA Hilge HYGIA H attractive to foreign markets:

Following the acquisition of pump specialist Hilge, GEA set up its Group-wide pump center of excellence at Hilge's headquarters in Bodenheim—near Frankfurt am Main, at the end of 2017. In the future, the Group's hygienic pumps will be developed and manufactured there. In the medium term, GEA will also assemble some pumps in the US to reduce delivery times for this new market and increase cost-effectiveness. GEA is planning a large-scale US market entry this year, which will require 3-A certification of the entire hygienic range.

Finish Thompson Adds to AODD Series

The Finish Thompson FTI AIR range of Air-Operated Double Diaphragm pumps (AODD) has been expanded following the introduction of new models in materials which are FDA compliant. These new pump options are made from Polypropylene and 316 Stainless Steel so they are ideal for food, beverage, pharmaceutical and cosmetic fluids handling applications.

The Polypropylene option has a simple, durable design with a smooth, easy clean finish with FDA compliant unfilled polypropylene wetted components and a choice of polypropylene or powder coated aluminum for the non-wetted parts. It has stainless steel fasteners and is available with threaded or ANSl/DIN/ISO flanged connections which vary depending on pump size.

The FDA compliant metallic option features 316L stainless steel wetted components and a smooth satin finish to RA 200µ-in/5.1µm with tri-clamp connections and stainless steel hardware. The non-wetted parts are available in either powder coated aluminum or polypropylene. An ATEX certified option is also available on request.

Both models benefit from an integral, stall-free air valve that is simple, rugged and reliable and eliminates the need for a separate pilot valve, or mechanically operated pilot valve. The components for this include; a low friction slide valve on a ceramic plate to allow for long-life and superior sealing, a molded Buna gasket which ensures total sealing and eliminates flat gasket tearing.

The simple and proven design places the emphasis on fewer moving parts, resulting in the all-important benefits of improved reliability, reduced downtime and lower running costs.

The FTI AIR range offers the important benefits of using AODD pumps. These include, simple installation, easy to operate and run, low maintenance and running costs, self-priming, portable, dry-running and the ability to handle abrasive, viscous and shear-sensitive liquids and even ‘dirty’ liquids with particles.

The pumps modular construction contributes toward simplified maintenance with individually replaceable, lower cost wearing parts which do not require special tools for fitting. Single piece flow assembly procedures means that every pump is built to the highest quality of specifications and every pump is tested with a three point test for vacuum, leakage and run ability.

LMI Expands Functionality of Chemical Metering Pumps for Industrial Water Treatment

LMI, a leading manufacturer of controlled-volume metering pumps and a brand of Accudyne Industries, announced the PD Series of chemical metering pumps for industrial water treatment. The new capabilities expand the functionality of LMI's popular P Series pumps.

The PD Series helps users simplify selection, configuration and operation. The intuitive user interface makes it easy for operators to examine capacity settings and set flow rates to a desired output. These features improve safety and give operators confidence that the pumps are working as configured. New alarm indicators for tank levels are brightly displayed on a large color display.

The new pumps feature improved hardware, a new graphical user interface and external control inputs. Enhanced software facilitates new calibration assist capabilities, plus new functionality to log pump strokes, estimated volume and power cycles.

FastPrime™ liquid ends, which facilitate easy priming through an integrated bleed-valve are now standard. Optional AutoPrime™ liquid ends are available for applications with off-gassing liquids. The Enhanced Model includes the StayPrime™ degassing technology, which is designed to maintain prime and keep the pump operating when needed.

Scot Pumps Expand Stainless Steel Centrifugal Pump Line

Scot Pump, a Wilo Company, has expanded their line of stamped 304 stainless steel pumps with NPT connections to include nine new ANSI flanged centerline discharge models. The new 320-328 series covers up to 385 gpm and 275 ft of head. The pumps feature Scot’s proven slip-fit O-ring/flinger design which prevents leaks caused by deformation as a result of over-tightening. They are mounted on a JM frame and incorporate a back pull-out design and weep holes in the impeller. The weep holes extend seal life by creating fluid movement in the seal cavity which aids in venting of air at start-up. The complete line is pending NSF 61 approval with expected completion by the third quarter of 2018.

Tacmina Corporation Adds Pump Series for Manufacturing Transfer

The Tacmina Corporation, headquartered in Osaka, Japan (with USA Headquarters in Schaumburg, IL), has recently announced the addition of the compact XPL Series Pumps for manufacturing operations.

The Tacmina XPL Series pumps were introduced to serve manufacturers with precise transfer, compact body design, easy maintainability, and explosion-proof motors as needed. The new XPL series pumps are designed to eliminate pulsation and maintain a stable chemical concentration transferring at a continuous flow. The XPL series pumps are designed to operate between discharge of 10 mL/min to 3L/min with a maximum discharge pressure of 1.5 MPa.

Smoothflow XPL Series pumps provide a constant and stable flow, are economical to operate and are a compact size. Advantages include no intrusion of air or leakage, water resistance and no sliding parts, wide range controlling, automatic control system ready, easy disassembly and maintenance, and customization options with many combinations. The XPL Series pumps are designed for use in nearly any industry and are specifically intended for mixing and blending, filtration, spray drying, coating industries and in chemical injection and dispersion processes.

Blackmer Unveils New Sliding Vane Pump Line

Designed to help solve numerous shaft-misalignment challenges faced by chemical manufacturers, Blackmer has introduced the design and operation of its new GNX series sliding vane pumps. The industry’s first alignment-free, reduced speed pumps for use in both portable and stationary applications (according to Blackmer) possesses a design that eliminates the couplings between the gearbox and the pump and motor by rigidly connecting them in alignment with a C-face (or similar) motor on both the high-speed and low-speed sides of the pump. This results in a pump without need for realignment, either at initial installation or following a maintenance procedure. Providing high-level performance, high suction lift and line-stripping capabilities with low maintenance and life cycle costs, the pumps are also ideal for chemical-transfer applications. The GNX Series pumps’ robust, commercial-grade gear reducer is capable of producing low ratios, resulting in more precise flow rates.

McIlvaine Company

Northfield, IL 60093-2743

Tel: 847-784-0012; Fax: 847-784-0061

E-mail: editor@mcilvainecompany.com

Web site: www.mcilvainecompany.com