Selection between a PD pump and a Sundyne Pump 1

[hemvig]

Service; Lean Amine Charge pumps
Flow 54.5 USgpm,@ 1668 psig discharge

Triplex type plunger pump (75 hp)API-674
Belt drive, pulsation dampeners included

Sundyne pump (200hp)LMV-331, API-610
gear box included

Can someone help me with selection of the pumps (Recip or Sundyne)and why?

 

[JJPellin]

We have 8 or 10 sets of amine charge pumps in our refinery. All of these except for one set are axial split, multi-stage centrifugals. One set is a pair of LMV-311 Sundynes. I have never seen plunger pumps used in this service. In our plant, plunger pumps would probably be excluded from this service because of the inherent packing leakage. Even lean amine contains some amount of H2S and is a hazard to personnel in any case. Normally clean packing flush would not be allowed since it would dilute the amine.

The only “comparable” services where I used a triplex plunger pump of the configuration you describe was high pressure wash water. The product was sour water and the pump was nothing but trouble. We ended up tearing it out and putting in a stacked diffuser (tie-rod) multi-stage centrifugal that has worked very well. I don’t care for plunger pumps.

My preferences for this service would be (in order from best to worst):
1. Axial split multi-stage centrifugal
2. Stacked diffuser (tie rod or barrel) multi-stage centrifugal
3. Pitot tube centrifugal (RotoJet)
4. High speed Sundyne
5. Plunger pump.


Johnny Pellin

 

[NGLENGR]

If you're set on using a PD pump, talk to the people at ClydeUnion about their sealing solutions. They have some products that may help you out.

Otherwise, use an axial-split case BB3 or similar. Sundynes are tricky to get right, and running outside of their best efficiency range is asking for seal and bearing trouble.

 

[micalbrch]

I know that I have my opinion exclusively but piston diaphragm pumps would be an option, too. Initial costs must be compared but wear parts costs are low and horsepower requirement would be around 80 HP.

Never use plunger pumps on any applications where the fluid contains any solids or is hazardous. For continuous operation make sure that the no. of stokes (plunger or piston pump) does not exceed 350 / minute. If you obey this, a triplex plunger pump will be a nice piece of equiment.