Energy-efficient and safe wastewater pump for chicken plant

A NSW chicken process plant went for safety and energy efficiency in selecting the wastewater pumps for its latest expansion. The plant had a lot of wastewater to shift — 10 ML per day — so getting the pump selection right was important.

Firstly, the plant wanted self-priming wastewater pumps. This would mean the pumps are easy to access for monitoring and/or maintenance and, importantly, operators would not be exposed to open wet wells and confined spaces issues when performing maintenance duties, as would be the case with submersible pumps. When the efficiency numbers were crunched, the Gorman-Rupp V6A60-B Ultra V Series pump came out the clear winner when compared with other 6″ pumps on the market.

At the particular duty point, the V6 could deliver a hydraulic efficiency of 68%, compared to the 55% offered by other manufacturers. Based on an energy price of $0.21 per kWh, the savings worked out to be $3875 per annum. That’s $38,750 for a 10-year period (excluding an allowance for inflation) and $96,875 over the expected 25-year life cycle of the pump.

Safety, efficiency and ease of maintenance were said to be the drivers in the development of the Ultra V Series pump range. A pressure relief valve vents excessive pressure if a valve is inadvertently closed, and as a second failsafe, the non-return suction flap valve has a built-in burst disk. As well as this, the fill port of the pump has a shield to divert flow to the ground, instead of outwards, if an operator inadvertently opens it while the pump is still pressurised.

Operators will also appreciate the ease with which the pump can be maintained due to the following features:

• A pusher-bolt system on the inspection cover-plate to make it easy to remove.
• A pusher-bolt capability on the rotating assembly.
• Shim-less external adjustment of internal pump clearances, done in 4 min without exposure to the pumped media.
• Inspection and/or replacement of the suction flap valve without opening the pump cover plate.
• Instant visual of seal and bearing oil through external sight glasses.

The series offers asset owners an efficient, safe and easy way to maintain wastewater pumps. The V6 can deliver flows to 120 L/s and pressures to 95 m. Smaller pumps in the range can cater for lower flows. The pump range is also available with a choice of materials for the wearing parts, including hardened iron, 316SS and duplex stainless steel.