Shipping
The export Shipping pumps that operate at the storage terminal provide the necessary pressure boost to convey the required feedstock cross-country to the facilities of their respective downstream clients via an onshore distribution pipeline. Depending on the process fluid viscosity, the Tank Unloading pumps may effectively serve as the Suction Booster pumps for the Shipping units to satisfy their NPSH / NPIP requirements. For long distance fluid transfer, additional intermediate booster stations may be needed to support the delivery of the product to its intended end destination.
Like all intermittent services, Storage terminal Shipping pumps can face operational challenges. As both the Shipping pump and its corresponding driver are being regularly started and stopped, the potential exists for moisture to be drawn into the bearing housings of each machine. During the intervening idle periods the conveyed process fluids can also set up within the internals of the pump, in particular in the seal housing areas, where vulnerable components like mechanical seals are located. Care must be taken in designing a suitable equipment lubrication scheme and pump shaft sealing arrangement, including the necessary API flush plans, to achieve the required availability of the Shipping pumps.
Have you considered the value of using rotary PD pumping technology?
Terminal managers and operators around the globe have realized that volumetric, rotary PD pumps are something they can capitalize on in these services. Having one machine that can efficiently transport heavy, medium and lightweight products simplifies the number of pieces of fluid-handling equipment required at these facilities. Controlling the rotary PD pumps with an adjustable speed drive allows operations to be performed in a "timed" manner without the need for flow control valves, eliminating the need for the recirculation of surplus process fluid. This reliable system control method takes full advantage of the tremendous turndown flow range of rotary PD pumps and their inherent high suction lift capability, making them an ideal fluid-conveying solution for your Shipping systems to fulfill the needs of your downstream clients.
