Steps for Pump Selection in Processes

Pump Selection Steps in Industrial Processes: Recommendations from Sisdoz Industrial processes and treatment applications require numerous pump types with different technologies for the transfer, dosing and circulation of all kinds of fluids. Selecting and using the correct pump according to the characteristic properties of the process and fluid has a positive effect on operating costs. Correct pump investment ensures trouble-free production, optimises energy costs and reduces time and expenses spent on servicing, maintenance and spare parts. Sisdoz A.Ş. fulfils the following procedures through its equipment portfolio, after-sales services and operational support.

What Is the Pump Needed For?

Since pumps can be used in every area of our lives, it is first necessary to determine why a pump is needed. Among options such as transfer, dosing, circulation and pressurisation, choosing which one suits our purpose narrows the selection criteria from the start and directs us towards the correct choice. For example, if chemical dosing is involved, we focus on dosing pump alternatives; if transfer between tanks, reservoirs etc. is involved, we focus on various transfer pump alternatives; if stationary or mobile use is involved, we proceed accordingly with pump types and start the selection from the correct point.

Fluid Properties Must Be Determined

To make the correct pump investment, the properties of the fluid to be transferred must be identified. These parameters are density (gr/cm³), viscosity (cP), pH, if chemical then percentage concentration ratio, if containing solid particles then percentage content and particle size, and temperature value. According to these determined parameters, the suitability of the pump components that will contact the fluid will be checked from Chemical Resistance reference tables.

Process Values Must Be Established

The suction and discharge conditions at the point where the pump will be used are necessary for correct investment. Whether the fluid is coming to the pump by gravity or if suction is required at the point of use in the facility is important for determining discharge line details and pump type. If suction is required, additional accessories can be planned to prevent the pump from running dry. The conditions for the pump's outlet line must also be established. If there is pre-existing piping, performance values should be calculated according to this installation.

What Are Performance Values?

Requirements for the fluid the pump will be used for in the facility must be determined. Capacity should be expressed in values such as m³/hour or l/min taking into account future needs, and pump discharge pressure should be expressed in values such as bar, mbar or metre. If pressure value cannot be determined, calculations should be made based on existing or planned piping lines or diameters and fluid properties. If there is no gravity or pressure loading, pressure values in the pump's suction line must also be reviewed.

Pump Operating Period

This criterion is important for correct pump investment. If we are looking for a pump that will operate on a 7-day, 24-hour basis, we are talking about a heavy-duty process pump. However, if we need a product that will operate for short periods at specific times of day or week, more different and economical alternatives can be considered. For example, in peristaltic pump selection, if continuous operation is intended, selection can be made at speeds of 10-15 rpm, if operation is 2 hours on and 1 hour off, selection can be made at 50-60 rpm, and if operation is only 1-2 hours per day, selection can be made at 90-100 rpm.

Power Alternatives

Pumps can be powered by electricity, compressed air, hydraulic pressure, diesel motor or vehicle shaft. The available alternatives in the facility or if a mobile pump will be used, the most suitable drive alternative should be selected by evaluating available options. Determining the power for the selected motor should first come from pump characteristic curves, then fluid and line properties will also be taken into account.

Control Alternatives

Whether the pump to be used will operate at fixed performance values or capacity adjustment according to process values is another criterion that needs to be decided. If capacity variations are to occur, whether this operation will be done manually by hand or via an external signal from the automation system should be evaluated, and the design should be carried out regarding whether the pump control mechanism will be coupled to the drive motor or operated with external sources.

Accessory Selection Is Important

Depending on process conditions and pump types, many accessory and safety equipment options are available both on the pump and on suction and discharge lines. It is not always necessary to use all of these options, but some alternatives can be critically important. For example, if the pump running dry is a possibility, a dry run prevention system should be used; if there is a risk of high pressure development in the discharge line, a high pressure prevention or pressure relief system should be used; if stable flow is desired but the selected pump type is a pulsating model, a pulsation damper should be used.

Installation Essentials

In our installed pump system, ball valves must definitely be installed on suction and discharge lines to enable maintenance when needed and to allow intervention. If long pipe lines are involved, vibration dampers or flexible connections must be used in all cases. Additionally, the use of pressure gauges or sensors on suction and discharge lines allows system performance to be monitored and intervention to be made in case of any adverse situation. At the location where the pump will be mounted, adequate space must be planned for maintenance.

Required International Standards

While no certification is required for selected pumps in standard applications, applications in some sectors require ATEX standards and Ex-Proof features due to the nature of the environment or fluid. This requirement is essential for explosive and flammable fluid applications. In the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors, international certifications such as 3A Sanitary and FDA certificates are required due to hygiene standards, and relevant pumps must be manufactured and certified to comply with these standards.

Supplier Selection

Like all products in our lives, one of the most important matters in selection and purchase of pumps for our facility is the supplier company. It is important to work with a team that can respond to the process conditions from pump selection to commissioning after delivery, as well as spare parts and service needs that will arise during and after use, and can provide engineering services. For the investment to be made correctly and to have a long service life, supplier selection is also very important alongside all the criteria mentioned, and the matter should be evaluated carefully. Kadir Fakioğlu Industrial Division Sales Manager Sisdoz A.Ş.