In order to optimize your pumping systems, you need to better understand all the components of a pumping systems. They include:

Source: DOE PSAT workshop

Learn more about pumping systems.

Focusing on optimizing the whole system and not just the pump is critical because:

1. Focusing solely on individual components overlooks potential cost-savings
2. Component failures are often caused by system problems
3. It supports a life cycle cost approach in designing systems and evaluating repair and maintenance options.

Pumping systems need to operate at their "Best Efficiency Point" in order to work most efficiently and least costly.

Many key opportunities for systems optimization have been identified:

• Replace throttling valves with speed controls
• Reduce speed for fixed load
• Match pump size to load
• Improper sizing of the piping system
• Install parallel system for highly variable loads
• Equalize flows using surge vessels
• Replace motor with a more efficient model
• Replace pump with a more efficient model

Learn more about getting started optimizing your pumping system.

The U.S. Dept. of Energy published an assessment of the US Industrial Motor Systems Market Opportunities in 1998 and revealed saving opportunities by making changes to your pumping system to ensure efficiency. Reducing the pump speed, matching the pump size to the load and reducing the overall systems requirements showed significant savings in energy.