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Applications

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Rocket Propellant

Rocket Propellant

Problem: A nationally recognized leader in the manufacture of solid rocket propellant uses air operated double diaphragm (AODD) pumps to transfer a particularly aggressive fluid to a unique piece of equipment that requires a constant and steady flow. The reciprocating action of the pump causes excessive pulsation in the discharge piping. Constant pulsation causes erratic flow which prevents the pumps from performing as required.

Sewage Treatment

Sewage Treatment

Problem: The Maquoketa, Iowa sewage treatment facility uses a twin disc type reciprocating pump to transfer pretreated sewage sludge from a clarifier to a digester. The twin disc pump is ideal for this application because this type of pump has no valves that can clog or restrict flow. Each disc of the pump transfers about one gallon of liquid with each stroke. The reciprocating action of the pump causes the discharge pipe and other components in the system to vibrate. This constant shaking causes joint leakage and premature failure of instrumentation. Pipe support brackets have been pulled loose from the wall.

Sewage Treatment

Sewage Treatment

Problem: The City of Colorado Springs WWTP uses Abel mechanical double diaphragm pumps to transfer sludge throughout their facility. The pump is ideal for their application due to the solids handling capability, and the fact that the pump is a positive displacement pump which allows the flow to be metered. The reciprocating action of the pump causes excessive pulsation in the discharge piping. The constant pulsation has caused broken pipes, failed gaskets, damaged valves, and has pulled pipe supports from foundations.

Bottling Line

Bottling Line

Problem: A cleaning product manufacturing facility experienced excessive pipe vibration on its bottling line due to a quick-closing valve. The rapid valve actuation was generating hydraulic shock (water hammer), compromising system stability and potentially damaging components.

Diesel Transfer Pump

Diesel Transfer Pump

Problem: The diesel transfer pumps on an offshore platform had never operated reliably or automatically since installation. This forced operators to transfer diesel to the electrical generators manually, resulting in significant delays and safety risks.

Chronic issues included:
• Recurring diaphragm ruptures
• Diesel leakage at the muffler
• Hose failures
• Excessive vibration in pump and piping
• Frequent instrument damage (pressure transmitters, PSVs, filter elements)
• Low and inconsistent transfer pressure
• Extremely long transfer times (6–8 hours for a 30% fill)

Root Causes Identified:
1. Pump suction pressure significantly exceeded recommended limits, producing severe water hammer effects and subjecting PTFE diaphragms to damaging pressure spikes.
2. Process air regulator pressure was set too high, further increasing pressure peaks and accelerating failures.
3. The original pump design lacked necessary stabilizing accessories to control pulsation and protect downstream components.

Centrifugal Pump Startup

Centrifugal Pump Startup

Problem: An internationally known tool manufacturer located in the Pacific Northwest was experiencing severe pipe vibration in an overhead manifold system. The system delivers coolant to several production grinding machines. The coolant is delivered to the manifold by a 300 gpm centrifugal pump located in a reservoir on the plant floor. When the pump is started, a ball valve at the pump discharge is opened and fluid is pushed vertically up to the horizontal manifold. The manifold does not stay filled with liquid during idle periods so, when the pump is started the coolant flowing into the manifold must first push the air trapped in the manifold out the machine coolant nozzles before coolant reaches the machines. Since air moves more quickly out of the nozzles than liquid, when the coolant reaches the nozzles the velocity of the coolant is instantly reduced and a water hammer effect occurs creating severe pipe vibration.

APPLICATIONS
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