Also since both pumps are doing the same, it is likely a system problem. Just to make sure, verify the correct impeller is on both pumps. Same flow but higher system pressure and more HP is required. Efficiency changes too.
Ok, so taking a quick look at the pump curve I see the following.
At 96m3/hr, 64% eff, 30Kw
At 124 m3/hr, 68%eff, 34Kw
With 11% increase in density that makes up the 4Kw difference and basically they are the same pumping condition power wise.
I don't know what motor size you have so not sure of FLA and any other motor size issues. I'd check motor voltage too just to make sure. Low voltage will mean higher amperage for same power. Check wiring and starter connections.
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Randy Riddell, CMRP, PSAP, CLS
Reliability Manager
Essity
Cherokee AL
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-09-2023 11:53 PM
From: Vaibhav Sharma
Subject: Centrifugal Pump increased power consumption at reduced flow rates
Thank You Mr Randy for sharing your feedback.
Yes, we identified that the increase in density is one of the reasons of motor overload. operating liquid density from 646 Kg/cubic m to 720 Kg/Cubic m which corresponds to a significant increase of 11.5%
Recirculation valve isn't passing.
We haven't checked viscosity part
Issue is motor overload trip on FLC (problem is current consumption. Motor is drawing more current even when pump is operated well below rated point. Please refer attached curves.). Current operating point is 96 m3/hr
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Vaibhav Sharma BTech
Reliability Engineer
Saudi Aramco
RAS TANURAH
Original Message:
Sent: 05-08-2023 08:47 AM
From: Randy Riddell
Subject: Centrifugal Pump increased power consumption at reduced flow rates
I am not familiar with naphtha but a few other random thoughts.
With SG increase, you are 1.11 times more BHP to start.
Pump clearances can cause that but you say they have been checked and are correct.
Assume pump turns freely by hand when down and empty.
Check system for any recirculation valves open or leaking by which is not measured flow in system. Is the flow you list from a flowmeter or from curve or calculation?
Is viscosity in range for design? Has it changed?
Is issue high power or high amperage?
What is motor voltage? If line voltage is lower, amps may be higher for same BHP.
Can you check system pressure compared to original design? Does it match up with your flowrate or motor load?
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Randy Riddell, CMRP, PSAP, CLS
Reliability Manager
Essity
Cherokee AL
Original Message:
Sent: 05-07-2023 12:42 AM
From: Vaibhav Sharma
Subject: Centrifugal Pump increased power consumption at reduced flow rates
Greetings Members,
Looking forward for your valuable feedback in resolving a centrifugal pump (API type OH2) high power consumption issue. Service media is naphtha.
Problem Statement: Pump is drawing more power at reduced flow rates. Refer attached pump operating parameters. Current discharge flow rate is 96 m3/hr. However, design flowrate is 124 m3/hr. At 96 m3/hr motor current is reaching FLC.
Findings & Observations:<o:p></o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>
- Current reported liquid density was checked, and it is averaged to be 720 Kg/cubic m since commissioning.<o:p></o:p>
- As per the pump performance curve, the pump & motor combination are designed for liquid density of 646 Kg/cubic m .<o:p></o:p>
- As per the history, the high current is experienced by both the pumps (1 running and 1 stand-by configuration)<o:p></o:p>
- Motor winding problem is ruled out as the current is balanced in both the motors. <o:p></o:p>
- As per condition monitoring observation, the motor & the pumps bearing are healthy and its vibrations are within limit.
6. Pump was overhauled and internal clearances are within design limits,. <o:p></o:p>
<o:p> </o:p>Members support is requested to identify other potential causes leading to this issue. Please note, operation team informed that there is nothing they can do about the naphtha density.
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Vaibhav Sharma BTech
Reliability Engineer
Saudi Aramco
RAS TANURAH
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