Fuel consumption of small irrigation pumps

[RobertBerlin]

I am trying to estimate how much fuel could be saved by hydraulic rams replacing diesel pumps for irrigation in rural China. From different hydraulic rams, I can measure output by liters/sec (typically 0,2-2) and pumping head (typically 10-60m).

I am now looking for appropriate values for fuel consumption of small diesel pumps (1-6kW) in the same situation. Could anyone help me with some typical values under field conditions, for modern and also older pumps?

For pumping a same amount of water first 10m and than 20m high, would fuel consumption much more than double (chosing appropriate diesel pumps in each case)?

Thanks a lot,

Robert

 

[JohnNabors]

Robert-

You have way too many variables to tie down an exact figure, but I can give you a ballpark idea. I looked up a small one cylinder diesel with a .232L displacement that is typical of the sort of engine we use to build small pumps such as what you describe. Operating at 3000rpm, this engine will produce 3.1kW and consume 868g/h.

Without seeing some curves I can't get you any closer than that.

-John

 

[Artisi]

I don't really understand your question, if you use hydraulic rams and I assume you are talking about units that are powered by the flow of water thru' to pump, then the saving of diesel fuel will be to what ever an equivalent diesel drive unit would comsume.

If you are trying to establish the fuel consumption of small diesel engines, John is correct, too many variables. Define what you are trying to achieve, make a pump selection for each duty you are looking for and then either review the engine performance detail or ask the engine supplier for assistance.

Phitsanulok
Thailand

 

[RobertBerlin]

Thanks for your answers! For the moment, I just needed a rough idea!

 

[BigInch]

Power consumption will be +/- double assuming the engines are similar and at roughly the same rpm. It would therefore depend mostly on the most significant remaining variable, the efficiencies of the two different pumps.

BigInch-born in the trenches.

http://virtualpipeline.spaces.msn.com