ABSTRACT
Proper pumping system design is the most important single element in minimizing Life Cycle Costs. Guaranteed or rated pump efficiency is only one component among many, and not necessarily the most important. Control valves can have a marked negative impact on total pump system efficiency, which could justify the initial purchase cost of a variable speed drive. The true system head-capacity curve only permits the accurate determination of the current pump operating conditions, but it is also required to establish realistic potential energy cost savings for optional improvement actions. Pump selection for parallel pump installations is key to minimizing energy costs. Many parallel pump systems aren’t operated in the most energy efficient manner or combination. A new and more suitable pump selection and operating plan can, therefore, provide substantial cost savings opportunities. Operational costs are strongly influenced by the selection of system piping components and the size.
