The digital revolution is moving forwards at an impressive rate, with many firms actively investing in connected technology to improve their processes and increase their productivity. Here are some of the smart developments from SEEPEX improving progressive cavity (PC) pump performance and maintenance…
Pump and process control
Pumps are becoming more intelligent, with increased integral sensors and connectivity. SEEPEX’s smart dosing pumps comprise a PC pump with drive and control software, as well as flow rate sensors and optional safety functions. Constant real-time feedback compares data from sensors with parameters determined for the process, and automatically adjusts the pump speed as process conditions change, reducing maintenance and increasing cost-efficiency.
Condition and process monitoring
Specialised devices are available to turn pumps into intelligent field devices that continuously self-monitor. Pump monitoring systems from SEEPEX observe operational information such as flow rate, temperature and pressure in real time, recording the operating conditions and pump efficiency. This provides users with trends for performance analysis and process optimisation. Deviations from set values trigger alarms, reducing standard inspection tours and providing greater safeguards for critical production processes.
Connected services
By connecting pump monitors and automation equipment, data can be transferred to cloud-based online services and retrieved by the user anytime, anywhere. This connectivity is the basis for Industry 4.0 and provides the information needed to improve equipment and process performance. SEEPEX connected services compare the data received from pump monitors with previously defined operational specifications to determine deviations from optimum performance, enabling corrections to be made. The use of API (application programming interface) software can also interlink equipment from different suppliers to produce a general process overview and enable whole process optimisation.
Predictive maintenance and service digitalisation
Data collected by pump monitors using bluetooth, wifi or SCADA systems can identify when maintenance is needed – predictive rather than scheduled maintenance. The SEEPEX ERP (enterprise resource planning) system then ensures the correct parts are available, even arranging shipment to site, providing a fully automated diagnostics and spare parts ordering system for customers. Service apps can provide technicians with virtual reality instructions for pump maintenance and provide access to service and instruction manuals, spare parts lists, chat service lines and ordering systems. In addition, SEEPEX pumps have QR codes which, when scanned with a smart phone camera, uniquely identify the pump and generate a spare parts list and O&M manual if needed. Using the app, spare parts quotations can also be requested. Apps of this kind offer on-site digital solutions to provide instant operational information and simplify the supply chain.
