Retrofitting new components or upgrading materials is a cost-effective method of meeting performance and reliability expectations. Rickie Nelson, Sulzer's sales representative for the UK's North West Region, looks at the advantages and potential benefits that can be achieved. Pumps have a hardworking life, especially in the petrochemical and oil and gas industries, where some of the fluids can be very corrosive. Specifying the most suitable materials for pump casings, impellers and seals is essential for durability in service. However, changing applications can often leave pumps ill-equipped for their new task. Retrofitting new components or upgrading materials is a cost-effective method of meeting performance and reliability expectations. Even though most people will never see them, industrial pumps are a crucial part of everyday life. They move water for municipalities, deliver irrigation for our crops and enable large scale construction projects. Pumps provide power stations with water for cooling and steam production, ensuring electricity is generated to keep us moving. Oil, gas and chemical facilities use pumps for transportation and processing; these vital pieces of rotating equipment help keep our lives flowing. Pumps are used for a wide variety of applications, and their designs are tailored to meet individual specifications. A great amount of time and effort is invested in achieving the best possible performance and reliability from a pump design. Over time, the specifications may change, or production targets may alter, and this means that the operation of some pumps may no longer be as efficient or as effective as desired.
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