Taming Bad Actors is designed to help participants better understand pumps and pump/system interaction, identify root cause failures, perform life-cycle cost analysis, and improve the performance of pumps and pumping systems. Topics covered include the principles of operation of centrifugal pumps, system problems such as cavitation and recirculation, root cause failure analysis, and methods for increasing pump reliability and efficiency. Participants will gain valuable skills through real-world examples and focused case studies, ensuring practical application of the concepts learned.

Who Should Attend?

Engineers
Maintenance Professionals
Operations Professionals
Managers

Knowledge Level:

Introductory

Completion Certificate:

5 PDH

Chapter Summaries:

CHAPTER 1: WORKING PRINCIPLES AND PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS

This chapter focuses on the working principles of pumps and the application of Bernoulli's principles. It delves into the intricate details of pump performance and system head curves. We discuss the process of estimating system head curves through the collection of field performance data. The chapter involves gathering relevant data from the field and plotting the results for analysis. In this section, we delve into the evaluation of existing pump performances, specifically examining pressure capacity and power aspects. It includes an analysis of the off-best efficiency performance curve and off-peak performance scenarios to optimize pump efficiency and reliability.

CHAPTER 2: CFD IN PUMP PERFORMANCE MAPPING

In this chapter, we delve into the utilization of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for comprehensive pump performance mapping. By analyzing fluid dynamics within pump systems, engineers gain insights into root cause failures, particularly system-induced issues. Leveraging CFD simulations and data analysis, we pinpoint failure causes for effective troubleshooting. Additionally, we address off-peak performance concerns and emphasize maintaining reliability during all operational periods. Strategies for correcting hydraulic mismatches enhance overall pump efficiency, while spectral analysis techniques provide deeper insights into system behavior.

CHAPTER 3: OPERATIONAL DYNAMICS AND OFF-PEAK PERFORMANCE

This chapter delves into the operational dynamics surrounding the Best Efficiency Point (BEP) in pump systems, emphasizing off-peak performance challenges, hydraulically induced bearing loads, and providing an introductory exploration of cavitation phenomena. It scrutinizes the implications of operating conditions away from BEP on pump efficiency and reliability, discusses the effects of off-peak performance on bearing loads due to hydraulic forces, and introduces the critical concept of cavitation that can impact pump performance and longevity.

CHAPTER 4: CAUSES OF CAVITATION

This chapter explores the fundamental causes of cavitation within pump systems, examining the influence of atmospheric pressure variations with altitude on cavitation occurrence and impact at different elevations. It further explores the concept of vapor pressure, providing a precise definition and elucidating its pivotal role in the initiation and progression of cavitation phenomena, shedding light on the intricate relationship between pressure differentials, fluid dynamics, and cavitation formation.

CHAPTER 5: NPSH AND CAVITATION MITIGATION

The chapter delves into the critical concept of Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) for both open and closed pump systems, highlighting the detrimental effects of cavitation on equipment through damage mechanisms and proposing effective remedies. It also emphasizes the significance of the last line of defense against cavitation by exploring material changes to mitigate cavitation-induced erosion and loss of material, offering insights into strategies to enhance equipment durability and performance in the face of cavitation challenges.

CHAPTER 6: OPTIMIZING PUMP PERFORMANCE

This chapter delves into the impact of suction and discharge recirculation, analyzing cavitation types and impeller disruptions using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. We address hydraulic misalignments, emphasizing the importance of operating pumps near their Best Efficiency Point (BEP) to prevent impeller failure. Secondly, we focus on hydraulic rerates and modifications, including impeller geometry adjustments and 3D modeling techniques. By centralizing rotors and optimizing system components, engineers can enhance pump reliability and efficiency.


This is an on-demand pay-per-view course (one-time access to each course segment for a period of 30 days from first login.)
Duration: 4-6 Hours
Instructor: Bob Jennings