Oil Pump Design for Water Service

[ChemEngSquirrel]

I'm purchasing a centrifugal pump. The pump will be designed for crude oil export service (oil density 750 kg/m3). I need to make sure the pump can also handle water so I've ensured that the motor is adequately rated for pumping water.

Is there anything else i should check to ensure my pump can handle water (other than motor rating)?

Thanks.

 

[LittleInch]

Power is the key change, but also check pressure as the head will be the same, but the pressure higher for water than crude.

You might have an issue with seals and slight contamination but otherwise I can't see any other major issue.

My motto: Learn something new every day

Also: There's usually a good reason why everyone does it that way

 

[1gibson]

The mechanical seal. Seal chamber pressures will be higher with water due to SG difference, and higher head with water (if crude has significant viscosity, if it is cold.)Hard/hard faces typical with crude, are not ideal for continuous use with water. If the seal has one carbon face it should be fine, but this is definitely something you want the seal vendor to be aware of. Otherwise, the end user will become painfully aware of it when MTBF for seals is short when running with water.

 

[LittleInch]

So.... Design for water and then use for oil.

My motto: Learn something new every day

Also: There's usually a good reason why everyone does it that way

 

[Artisi]

Doubt if it was designed for oil, just selected / equipped for oil application. As previously advised - inform the supply of the need to also pump water so seal selection can be reviewed and motor power confirmed.

It is a capital mistake to theorise before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts. (Sherlock Holmes - A Scandal in Bohemia.)