Specialist pump proves reliability for Sheffield Forgemasters 11 October 2013

Steel producer Sheffield Forgemasters International is reporting success with a replacement yard services pump, following expert advice from RMI Pressure Systems.

The hydraulic pump station had been powered by a veteran Loewy pump since the 1960s, which was approaching end of service life the decision was made to replace it.

RMI recommended its Quinmax S500 pump, the latest model from its flagship S-Series range, because is capable of producing pressure up to 1,000 bar and flow rates to 1,000 litres/min.

The unit is a five-piston (instead of three), crankshaft-driven, positive displacement pump, and is also reliable – as proven across the world, mostly in the mining industry.

David Bartholomew, forge engineering manager at SFIL, was persuaded that using five pistons meant reduced crankshaft and bearing loads, which leads to increased service life and maintenance intervals.

In addition, this pump design reduces the fluid velocity for each plunger by 40%, resulting in lower hydraulic noise, and allows slower crank speeds, which again reduces mechanical wear.

Finally, the smoother pressure profile should reduce the impact of pressure surges on other equipment in the system.

"We needed to improve the efficiency and reliability of our yard services area, and the installation of the S500 has proven to be a great addition to the plant," states Bartholomew.

"The knowledge and expertise of the RMI engineers was very influential in the final decision and we will continue to involve RMI in future upgrades."

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
RMI Pressure Systems Ltd

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.