Amarinth supplies low shear centrifugal pumps for use in hydrocarbon separation module in Loango field off Congo

Using a centrifugal pump

gMAX specification was that the low shear pumps had to operate at speeds below 1800rpm (2 pole speed) and with a hydraulic efficiency of less than 70% and be manufactured from super duplex material. Low shear applications are often served by progressive cavity pumps, but for the duty required for this application it would have required a 3 metre long pump. This was not an option within the confined space available in the separation unit. Amarinth proposed an alternative solution using a compact centrifugal pump with a speed of 1450 rpm and a duty point efficiency of 66%. The use of a centrifugal pump also allowed a lower pressure to be maintained at high duty. Working closely together Although the pump did not meet the exact specification, knowing Amarinth’s excellent reputation for supplying equipment that could meet the requirements of demanding applications of the oil and gas industry, gMAX decided to order the Amarinth solution.

In order to get the best performance from the pumps, Amarinth worked closely with gMAX on designing the system, particularly in regulating the flow during recirculation. Amarinth also assisted gMAX in the commissioning of the pumps and in training the engineering staff.

Successful completion

Finally on completion, gMAX were delighted to report that the performance of the Amarinth pumps was well within acceptable parameters, despite not meeting the exact criteria laid down by gMAX.

Based on the strength of this successful application, a budget proposal has now been submitted by Amarinth for a similar application on a neighbouring platform.

Developing new criteria

Given that Amarinth were able to meet the needs of this application using a standard pump has also led Amarinth to investigate what the critical performance characteristics are for low shear applications. Clearly, different manufacturers hydraulic design philosophy may lead to a better or potentially worse effect on shear performance than was otherwise realised. Amarinth are now in a stronger position to advise companies like gMAX when selecting pumps based on this somewhat dated arbitrary criteria.