As part of a wider project, we conducted pump efficiency testing on our client’s 1930s diesel-driven unit, using a highly innovative approach to gather the information and measurements required.
Yet, the nature and size of the pump meant it was extremely complex. With no ‘off the shelf’ procedure for accurately testing diesel driven pumps, there was no straight-forward method to monitor the shaft torque and pump efficiency.
Driven by a diesel engine the mechanical input power to the pump had to be calculated by measuring torque and speed on the driving shaft. While a torque approach is fairly standard, how we calibrated it on site to effect high accuracy measurements was extremely innovative.
Pump testing innovation
We designed and built a bespoke calibration machine – a wireless torque meter – and attached it to the shaft, transmitting measurements of torque in real time.
A huge benefit of this in-situ calibration was the way it overcame factors that can impact accuracy. In-situ calibration removed uncertainties and ultimately meant we could transfer highly accurate torque readings to the in-situ meter.
Our calibration machine was designed and built to work seamlessly with our FREEFLOW pump testing system and wirelessly transmit measurements in real-time to our software. Overall it meant we were able to verify pump efficiency improvements from 35% to 83%, and minimise risk and deliver a positive commercial impact. Measurements now inform the client’s future design considerations.
To find out more about how we developed our bespoke meter, you can download our case study in full: Innovating to test an engine driven pump following its refurbishment.
