Controlling multiple pumps operating in parallel or series
AssigneeCompressor Controls Corporation
InventorsSaul Mirsky, Krishnan Narayanan
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Abstract
Often, an application or process calls for multiple pumps operating within a piping network. Pump load, such as flow rate or pressure, is shared between these multiple pumps. The present disclosure relates to effective means of distributing the pumping load in a manner that satisfies the process requirements while keeping the pumping machinery safe from functioning in damaging operating regions. It also discloses a method of operating pumps in an efficient or optimal fashion. An additional aspect is a method of using an open-loop response to deal with large transients threatening to force a pump into an operating region that might result in damage or destruction.
Claims34
A method for controlling a pumping system comprising a plurality of variable-performance centrifugal or axial pumps, each having a Minimum Continuous Stable Flow control limit, pertinent instrumentation, and a control system, the method comprising manipulating a performance of the pumps, such that all pumps arrive at their respective Minimum Continuous Stable Flow control limits approximately simultaneously as a process flow rate is reduced.
An apparatus for controlling a pumping system comprising a plurality of variable-performance centrifugal or axial pumps, each having a Minimum Continuous Stable Flow control limit, pertinent instrumentation, means for manipulating each pump's performance, and a control system, the apparatus comprising means for maintaining approximately equal distances between all pumps' operating points and their respective Minimum Continuous Stable Flow control limits.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.