Pumping Ammonia

[CJD1984]

Please provide your input on the following application:

Currently, the internal gear pumps are experiencing frequent mechanical seal failures and the facility would like to replace the pumps. As we should know, problems in the pump are typically not JUST the pumps fault....the pump just happens to feel the effects of the flaws in the system.

The duty point is approx 25 GPM @ 150 psi discharge. Lowest NPSHa is -6" Hg.

Please advise what style of pumps you have used with and without sucess and why they did or did not work.

I would also like points of advice when operating ammonia systems in general to help troubleshoot flaws.

 

[ApC2Kp]

CJD1984,

The commonly used pumps on loading docks and tranport tankers would be Blackmer or Corken. These transports are used for ammonia and for propane LPG during alternate seasons of demand in the agricultural markets. The sliding vane type of pump could be more suited to the liquified gas compared to the internal gear type of pump. As with all rotating equipment, slower speed equipment will have longer life from larger heavy robust construction and less wear at lower rpms. While it may help o get assistance of other mechanical seal vendors, it could be basic selection of pump type that would solve the pump maintenance issues.