Our contributors

Angelica Pajkovic
Angelica Pajkovic
KCI Corporation
Brittani Schroeder
Brittani Schroeder

Most recent articles

Messe Düsseldorf: When Heart Meets Business
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 10 August 2020
Built on a foundation of market driven innovation, Messe Düsseldorf has established itself as a leading international trade fair organizer. With 76 foreign agencies, representatives in 140 countries, and 7 subsidiaries, the Messe Düsseldorf Group is networked globally to produce quality exhibitions for its clients. Its commitment to exceeding the expectations of its dynamic client base makes its services continually sought after in a number of industries.
Hose + Coupling World Americas Conference & Expo 2020: The Chairman’s Perspective
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 27 July 2020
The Hose + Coupling World Americas Conference & Expo 2020, taking place on December 2nd and 3rd, 2020, at the San Jacinto College’s LyondellBasell Center for Petrochemical, Energy, & Technology (CPET) in Pasadena, TX, will be a meeting point for manufacturers, distributors and end users to learn about the latest technologies, components and systems in the field of industrial fluid transfer.
Using VFDs for Sensorless Pump Optimization
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 13 July 2020
Pumping systems in all industries are adapting to changing regulations with manufacturers, integrators and end users must comply. Industry professionals have seen these new regulations as an opportunity to push the efficiency of products well beyond the standard minimum compliance. Ever increasing focus is placed on optimizing pumping systems to reduce the total cost of ownership over the equipment’s useful lifespan.
Owning Your Work: An Interview with Rob Crena De Iongh – Part 2
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 29 June 2020
After almost four decades of working for one of the top five oil and gas companies, Rob Crena De Iongh has gained invaluable knowledge and expertise in the oil and gas industry. Throughout his professional career he has worked with a large variety of rotating and static equipment like pumps, compressors, gas-turbines, valves, hoses, and specific corrosion resistant alloys (CRAs).
CFturbo: Envisioning the Future of Hydraulic Design
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 15 June 2020
CFturbo’s innovative, reliable, and high-quality software has earned it the reputation as a leading design-orientated engineering company with cutting edge technology. Following the path of legendary German engineering, the company’s outstanding user-friendly software makes CFturbo continually sought after in the industrial industry.
Maximizing Pump Reliability, Minimizing Cost
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 01 June 2020
Choosing the best pump for a system is not a simple task, as many engineers know. At minimum, the pump must deliver the required flow rate. However, a better pump will not only operate at the required flow rate, but it will also be reasonably priced, cause minimal downtimes, be easy to maintain, and have a long operational lifetime. In the oil and gas industry, all these points are important to ensure safe and profitable operation.
Safe Installation and Maintenance is Key to Safe Operation: Interview with Mohamed Eissa
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 18 May 2020
With diverse experience as a Field Service Engineer, Mohamed Eissa uses his knowledge of pumps and valves to ensure safe installation, effective operation, and low maintenance of large pump applications. His expertise extend to artificial lift electrical submersible pumps, down hole sensors, well head penetrators, cables, variable speed drives, and many other types of rotating equipment.
Creating Consistency in Coal Ash Remediation
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 04 May 2020
Water plays an essential role in coal ash remediation, but managing that process comes with challenges. Power plant operators are seeking ways to safely remediate unlined coal ash basins, while reducing risks and expenses. The process is complicated by the accumulation of suspended solids like mud and sand, as well as a wide variety of other particulate matter collected by moving water. The resulting slurry creates an abrasive and corrosive environment for any type of pumping equipment.
Owning Your Work: An Interview with Rob Crena De Iongh – Part 1
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 20 April 2020
After almost four decades of working for one of the top five oil and gas companies, Rob Crena De Iongh has gained invaluable knowledge and expertise in the oil and gas industry. Throughout his professional career he has worked with a large variety of rotating and static equipment like pumps, compressors, gas-turbines, valves, and hoses.
Proco Products: The Distributor Driven and Customer Focused Leader of Rubber Expansion Joints
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 06 April 2020
Built on a foundation of partnership, marketing ‘know-how’, and a deep rooted understanding of the industrial industry, Proco Products Inc. has established itself as the leader of rubber and Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) expansion joints in North America. Its engineering excellence, customer focus, and dynamic products make its services continually sought after in a number of industries.
Know Your Equipment: An Interview with George Corfield
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 23 March 2020
George Corfield is a professional maintenance and operations manager and mining engineer, with more than 20 years of experience in operations, equipment repair and overhaul, maintenance, and engineering functions for diversified industrial and mining organizations. His expertise lies in problem solving, operations, cost analysis, communicating vision, and strategic planning.
Reducing Pump Energy with Permanent Magnet Technology and Integrated Controls
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 09 March 2020
The year is 2020, and the Department of Energy is getting serious about pump efficiency. New requirements cover pumps from 1 to 200 horsepower with nominal flow rates starting at 25 gallons per minute and heads up to 460 feet. These requirements are an amendment of the original Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (EPCA). Until now, little attention was given to pumps with an exception to what was driving the pump: the electric motor. As these new requirements come into effect, what are th
A Rotating Equipment Editor: An Interview with Dan Heberer
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 24 February 2020
An early interest in machinery brought Dan Heberer into the world of mechanical engineering, which eventually led to a career in rotating equipment and pumping systems. With a long-term focus on rotating equipment and diverse knowledge of the chemical industry, Pump Engineer was thrilled to sit down with Heberer to discuss his years of experience working with pumps and the various projects he worked on as he searched for a long-term solutions for pump reliability.
Ruhrpumpen: A Family-Owned Company with a Wealth of Experience
Posted by Brittani Schroeder | 10 February 2020
Ruhrpumpen has a long history in the pump industry. As the company approaches its 70th anniversary, it is more focused than ever on its quality standards, reliability, efficiency, and ability to provide custom solutions to its global customers.
“Torquing” About Advanced Pump Controllers
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 27 January 2020
With the demand for automation in the pumping industry, new technologies are emerging each day to answer the call. The importance of receiving real-time data is increasing greatly, as is finding a quick way to install these new technologies. The question is: how will these new technologies work?
Combine Hard and Soft Skills for an Effective Energy Management Program
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 13 January 2020
Bill Allemon develops and implements strategic energy management plans leveraging Operational Excellence tools. Throughout his career, he has found himself somewhere between the C-Suite and field operations, communicating strategic concepts and nebulous goals into effective strategies that deliver value for his clients.
DEPA® Air Operated Double Diaphragm Pumps: Making the Right Selection for Chemical Applications
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 16 December 2019
Crane ChemPharma & Energy, DEPA® is widely recognized as an industry leader in pump applications and pump technology. Today the company designs and manufactures a wide range of highly engineered products, including peristaltic and air operated diaphragm pumps, which are sought after around the world.
A Lifetime of Learning: An Interview with Paulo Luman
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 02 December 2019
The industries are always changing, always evolving, whether is it oil and gas, petrochemical, energy, or wastewater. To ensure success, Paulo Luman knew that he needed to be open to new technologies, new processes, and new solutions that would come into his workplace as the time passed.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap: An Interview with Gary Boles, Project Manager at Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) – Part 2
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 18 November 2019
When conversations concerning pumps, valves, or nuclear power plants arise, Gary Boles is always eager to partake. As a highly experienced Project Manager at EPRI, Boles has had the opportunity to work in a number of positions within the power industry.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap: An Interview with Gary Boles, Project Manager at Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) – Part 1
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 04 November 2019
When conversations concerning pumps, valves, or nuclear power plants arise, Gary Boles is always eager to partake. As a highly experienced Project Manager at EPRI, Boles has had the opportunity to work in a number of positions within the power industry.
Q&A Water and Wastewater – Part 2
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 21 October 2019
Pump Engineer is proud to present Q&A: Water and Wastewater Applications.
Q&A Water and Wastewater - Part 1
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 07 October 2019
Pump Engineer is proud to present Q&A: Water and Wastewater Applications.
Energy Efficient Engineering: Interview with Adam McMurtrey, Industrial Sales Engineer, Midwest, ExxonMobil Fuels & Lubricants Company
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 23 September 2019
When it comes to working with customers to solve lubrication and engineering problems, Adam McMurtrey relies on a lifetime of experience that goes all the way back to his childhood. For ExxonMobil’s Mobil Serv program, he works closely with industries ranging from lead mines to chicken rendering plants—always with energy efficient lubrication at the forefront of every solution.
Four Decades of Success in the Processing Industry: An Interview with Jim Darby
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 09 September 2019
Jim Darby began his career as a Junior Process Engineer and has progressed over the years to achieve a Senior Process Engineer position. Darby began working with Paton Engineers and Constructors in Sarnia, Ontario, and has held his position there for the last two and a half years. Pump Engineer had the pleasure of sitting down with Darby to discuss his experience with pumps and pumping applications over his many years in the industry.
When Good Pumps Become Smart
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 26 August 2019
Over the years, engineers have become very proficient at manufacturing “good” and even “excellent” pumps. Industry professionals have established many standards for correct installation practices and perfected their ability to run the pumps in a professional and efficient manner. Decades of training, learning and experience have built up a lot of knowledge. The question is: will this be enough for tomorrow?
The Past, Present and Future of Pumps and Mechanical Seals (Part 2)
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 12 August 2019
Pump Engineer recently had the pleasure of speaking with Scott Boyson, an expert rotating equipment consultant with over 25 years of experience in design, product development and equipment reliability programs. Scott shared his insights about the progressive nature of sealing technology and offered his perspective on the past, present and future for pumps and mechanical seals.
The Past, Present and Future of Pumps and Mechanical Seals (Part 1)
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 29 July 2019
Pump Engineer recently had the pleasure of speaking with Scott Boyson, an expert rotating equipment consultant with over 25 years of experience in design, product development and equipment reliability programs. Scott shared his insights about the progressive nature of sealing technology and offered his perspective on the past, present and future for pumps and mechanical seals.
Valve World Americas Expo & Conference 2019 a Success
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 16 July 2019
The fifth staging of Valve World Americas Expo & Conference, organized by KCI Publishing Corporation and Messe Düsseldorf North America, was held on June 19th and 20th at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.
A Visit to Hoover Dam: An Inside Tour of an Architectural and Engineering Marvel
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 15 July 2019
An industrial wonder of the world, Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, located near Boulder City, Nevada, on the border of Arizona. Constructed between 1931 and 1936 during the Great Depression, it was originally known as Boulder Dam. It was officially renamed Hoover Dam, for President Herbert Hoover, by a joint resolution of Congress in 1947. The Pump Engineer team traveled from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam—one of 20th century’s most significant ar
Solving Problems Unique to Various Industries: Interview with Tolga Arslan – Industrial Engineer, Martin Engineering
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 17 June 2019
A customer-oriented approach combined with experience in a variety of industries has helped Tolga Arslan become an expert in maintaining and servicing a variety of pumps, valves and other hydraulic equipment.
When Good Pumps Become Smart
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 03 June 2019
Over the years, engineers have become very proficient at manufacturing “good” and even “excellent” pumps. Industry professionals have established many standards for correct installation practices and perfected their ability to run the pumps in a professional and efficient manner. Decades of training, learning and experience have built up a lot of knowledge. The question is: will this be enough for tomorrow?
Hydraulic Fracturing Presents a Most Profitable Market Opportunity for Pump Manufacturers
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 20 May 2019
The hydraulic fracturing pump market is one of the Most Profitable Markets (MPM) for pump suppliers. It is large and will grow, at close to double digit rates, over the next few years. As the application is extremely challenging, a situation arises where a better designed pump can be sold at a much higher price. The fact that the repair parts market is bigger than the new equipment market ultimately results in a large combined market.
API 610 Pumps for Boiler Feed Water Service: Options and Design Features
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 06 May 2019
Specifying the correct features and options on API 610 centrifugal pumps going into boiler feed systems is the first step in optimal reliability. Boiler Feed Water applications are one of the most difficult process fluids that centrifugal pumps can encounter. There are a number of primary areas to focus on, when considering boiler feed water pumps, in order to achieve a state of optimal reliability.
A Career in the Oil Industry: An interview with William Salmons – Project Engineer and Project Manager
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 22 April 2019
With 44 years of experience as an engineer, William Salmons has acquired a substantial amount of knowledge about the ins and outs of the oil and gas industry. As a former Area Engineer, Project Engineer and Project Manager for Conoco/Phillips 66, Salmons has had the responsibility of finding the best-suited materials and applications for each project he has been involved with, as well as the most cost-effective solutions.
Building Projects from Scratch that Make an Impact: Interview with Steve Tourigny, Consulting Engineer
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 08 April 2019
For more than 30 years, Steve Tourigny has been involved in the design, development and management of many products, processes, plants and businesses. Through his experience, he has gained expertise with start-ups, helping companies get key projects off the ground. With extensive engineering, operations and partnering experience, he now works as an independent consultant servicing a variety of industries in an advisory capacity.
The Future of Pumps for Coal Fired Power is in the RCEP
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 25 March 2019
The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which has been renamed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), is currently involved in a free trade deal known as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The partnership involves ten members of ASEAN and its six dialogue partners. If the deal succeeds, RCEP will become the world’s largest trading bloc, accounting for 3.4 billion people with a total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $49.5 trillion.
Improving Balancing Processes
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 11 March 2019
The goal of balancing is to align mass center with geometric center. Unbalance occurs when the mass center axis is not aligned with the geometric axis. The amount of unbalance is measured by the amount of mass multiplied by the radius of the part. The mass amount is multiplied by the distance from the center to give the numerical value of unbalance. The most common example of unbalance units are ounce-inches and gramcentimeters. These definitions are critical to understanding what balancing is.
Progressive Cavity Pumps Reduce Costs for Digesting Residual Sludge: Lower energy and maintenance costs while simultaneously reducing downtime
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 25 February 2019
Operators looking for the most reliable, low-maintenance and efficient solution for discharging digested residual sludge at a sewage plant in Germany recently began a comparison of an inclined conveyor versus fourstage progressive cavity pumps. The results show that use of the progressive cavity pumps helped the plant save significant amounts of energy and lower maintenance costs, while simultaneously reducing downtime compared to an inclined conveyor.
Designing Basic & Detailed Processes for Mega Methanol Plants: An Interview with George Gabriel
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 11 February 2019
Pump Engineer had the pleasure of speaking with George Gabriel about the various roles and responsibilities he took on while designing the basic and detailed processes of mega methanol plants. As a senior process engineer, Gabriel provided interesting insight into the various pumps that are used in methanol plants and highlighted the importance of working on a project from its inception to its completion.
Education and Collaboration for Overcoming Challenges in a Complex Manufacturing Environment
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 29 January 2019
Pump Engineer had the pleasure of speaking with Patrick Wasserman - Piping Engineer, and Stephen Henson - Mechanical Engineer, Materials, Vessels, and Piping Technology (MVPT) of Eastman Chemical Company, about how they work with customers to deliver innovative products and services in end-markets such as transportation, building and construction and consumables.
Isolate the Problem to Solve the Problem: Interview with Jody Millsap – President and Owner of Water Solutions Engineering
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 14 January 2019
Pump Engineer had the pleasure of speaking with Jody Millsap concerning his role as the president of Water Solutions Engineering. Jody Millsap gets his hands dirty. “With my personality, I am not content simply sitting in an office,” he said. “I like to interact with the customers, help with sales calls and get my hands on the equipment. President is just a title. You have to be a jack of all trades. I like to be out doing stuff and staying busy.”
Aluminium Bronze: An Alternative to Duplex Steels in Pump Design
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 17 December 2018
Bronze alloys are very well known for friction related applications whereas Aluminium Bronze or Nickel Aluminium Bronze alloys are much less known; yet, they offer unique corrosion characteristics as required by pumps, especially in sea water applications, along with interesting biofouling properties. Those two properties make them a preferred solution for all marine related applications (pumps, valves, heat exchangers and propulsion systems).
How Knowledge Assists with Maintaining Safety and Reliability in Oil & Gas Operations
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 03 December 2018
Manjul Saxena, Senior Rotating Equipment Engineer at BP in Surry, United Kingdom, recently spoke with Pump Engineer about his vast experience with pumps and pumping systems, and their applications in the oil and gas industry.
Implementing Effective and Robust Resolutions for Rotating Equipment Applications in the Oil & Gas Industry
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 19 November 2018
Pump Engineer was delighted to speak with Consultant Mechanical Engineer, George Kontarakis, about his role at Petrofac, an international service provider to the oil and gas industry, from their London, UK offices.
Turning Challenges of the Past into the Solutions of the Future: A Moment With David Wilhite
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 06 November 2018
Spanning the realm of the nuclear power industry, David Wilhite’s experience is vast and storied; whether the job at-hand is supplying parts, conducting onsite plant modifications or designing the next-generation power plants, David has worn a multitude of hats throughout his career. On a sunny day in Texas, Pump Engineer had the pleasure of sitting down with David to gain insight into an end user’s perspective on turning an industry’s past challenges into future solutions.
Engineering at Sea and on Land An Interview with Bruce Ames – Lubrication Engineer, ExxonMobil
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 22 October 2018
Running the engineering department on an aircraft carrier during the first Gulf War prepared Bruce Ames for a lifelong career that kept him busy in all types of industries—paper, power, trucking and more. Now, a lubrication engineer with ExxonMobil, he uses his diverse skills to develop programs to help his customers save money, energy and time.
Donald Wiedemeyer, a giant man with a giant personality - obituary
Posted by David Sear | 16 October 2018
It is with great sadness that we report of the death of our colleague, boss, friend, mentor and – above all - inspirator, Donald Wiedemeyer, at the age of 58.
Precise Calculation Leads to High Equipment Performance: Interview with Johan Meijer
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 09 October 2018
Johan Meijer has spent the past four decades solving engineering problems related to pumping system design —working closely with valves, pumps and hoses. His experience and knowledge became so deep that he developed a powerful and strategic calculation program for high pressure peristaltic pumps that is provided free to end users.
Tips for maintaining brewery equipment: An interview with Justin Farmer
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 21 September 2018
An interview with Justin Farmer, Maintenance Manager at Rhinegeist Brewery Facilities. He started at the bottom, but quickly earned the experience and knowledge to work his way into a leadership role at Rhinegeist Brewery in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he is transforming the maintenance and reliability programs of the historic brewery.
Acceptable Risk: A day in the life of John-Paul Schmidt
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 11 September 2018
Pump Engineer had the pleasure of speaking to John-Paul Schmidt, Piping Stress Leader at Dow Chemical, about working with clients to design projects, calculating risk and common challenges with equipment, as well as the best and most challenging aspects of the job.
Tackling the “Skilled Trades Stigma”
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 21 August 2018
Pump Engineer was happy to sit down with Mikel Janitz, Territory Manager & Applications Engineer for Bezares USA, and dicusss the various roles, responsibilities and opportunities he has had since starting his career.
For Problem Solving, Look at the System as a Whole
Posted by Angelica Pajkovic | 07 August 2018
An insightful interview with Abhijit Ray Chaudhuri. Currently based in Kolkata, India, he is the head of the Pumping Systems Group inside the VA Tech Wabag organization. He oversees the selection, procurement and operational issues related to pumps, valves and the associated electrical and mechanical equipment in the water and wastewater sector.
An insight into the role of a Vibration Analyst in a demanding chemical plant
Posted by Candace Allison | 30 July 2018
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company was founded when Chevron Corporation and Phillips Petroleum Company, now Phillips 66, combined their worldwide petrochemical businesses on July 1st, 2000. The company, which has 33 production facilities located in the US, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Belgium, produces olefins and polyolefins and is a leading supplier of aromatics, alpha olefins, styrenics, specialty chemicals, piping and proprietary plastics.
Water treatment and cooling applications for power plants
Posted by Candace Allison | 13 July 2018
Ninety-percent of electricity generated in the U.S comes from thermoelectric plants that are powered by coal, nuclear or natural gas. These plants require tremendous volumes of water, which is boiled to create steam that spins turbines. The heat used to boil water comes from burning a fossil fuel or from a nuclear reaction. Written by Axel Bokiba, Pulsafeeder.
Attractive Opportunities for Pump Sales in Upstream Oil & Gas
Posted by Candace Allison | 06 July 2018
The upstream oil & gas industry suffered significant setbacks in 2015 and 2016, following the collapse of crude oil prices that had begun in mid-2014. Last year marked an inflection point in the market, and although far from complete, the much-anticipated recovery can be described as a ‘good start’, particularly for the North American market. Current projections for 2018 suggest a continuation of this positive trend. By Matjaž Matošec, Research Manager, Resolute Research
Implementing effective and robust resolutions for rotating equipment with PetroFac's Consultant Mechanical Engineer
Posted by Candace Allison | 14 June 2018
Pump Engineer was delighted to speak with Consultant Mechanical Engineer, George Kontarakis, about his role at Petrofac, an international service provider to the oil and gas industry, from their London, UK offices.
Simulating pumps to discover better designs
Posted by Candace Allison | 16 April 2018
In this article, Elspeth Mosedale, Marketing Manager, Siemens PLM Software, discusses time-sensitive solutions to the multiple challenges faced by pump design engineers in their efforts to create new and better products.
A Moment with: Eugene L. Broerman, Pump Summit Americas 2018 Steering Committee Member
Posted by Candace Allison | 20 March 2018
Pump Engineer is pleased to present a discussion with Eugene L. Broerman, Principal Engineer in the Fluid Machinery Systems Section at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. Eugene will play a key role in the Pump Summit Americas conference, taking place on June 25th–26th, 2018, as he will not only moderate, but also present during one of the scheduled workshops.
Coming Changes in the Pump Market
Posted by Candace Allison | 05 March 2018
There is a change on the horizon and those pump suppliers navigating based on present conditions will be well advised to chart a new course. This article is written by Robert McIlvaine, President & Founder, The McIlvaine Company.
A Moment With….Richard Bierman, Pump Summit Americas 2018 Steering Committee Member
Posted by Sarah Bradley | 16 January 2018
Pump Engineer was delighted when Richard Bierman, a Vibration Analyst at Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, gladly accepted an invitation to join the Steering Committee for the next Pump Summit Americas Conference, which will take place in Houston, Texas in the summer of 2018.
A moment with: Ernesto Primera, Pump Summit Americas 2018 Steering Committee Member
Posted by Sarah Bradley | 08 January 2018
Pump Engineer is pleased to present a discussion with Ernesto Primera, Senior Machinery Reliability Engineer at Chevron. Ernesto is an invaluable member of the Pump Summit Americas 2018 Steering Committee and he has a wealth of experience in the oil & gas industry in North and South America.
Water treatment and cooling applications for power plants
Posted by Sarah Bradley | 21 December 2017
Ninety-percent of electricity generated in the U.S comes from thermoelectric plants that are powered by coal, nuclear or natural gas. These plants require tremendous volumes of water, which is boiled to create steam that spins turbines. The heat used to boil water comes from burning a fossil fuel or from a nuclear reaction.
Supporting operations in Saudi Aramco’s Abqaiq Plants: An interview with Reliability Engineer, Andres Gonzalez
Posted by Sarah Bradley | 16 November 2017
Saudi Aramco’s Abqaiq Plants, located in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia, is the largest crude oil stabilization plant in the world. With a capacity to produce more than 7 million barrels of oil per day (bbl/d), reliability and failure prevention are key factors in maintaining steady production and distribution.
Revisit the Engineers’ Creed before Designing Systems
Posted by Sarah Bradley | 17 October 2017
The water pumps at Fukushima, Japan, Beaumont, TX, New Orleans, LA and a number of other locations have made the news in recent years. All were critically important, although they probably differed considerably from each other in style, size and configuration.
Procurement in the O&G industry: An interview with Andre Gafford, Sr. Partner, DeLeon Business Consulting Group
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 10 October 2017
A repeat contributor to Pump Engineer, Andre Gafford has built a reputation for hard work, extensive know-how in the oil & gas (O&G) industry and a propensity for diversity. “I’ve done as much as possible so that I always have options, especially when faced with industry uncertainty,” he says.
Supporting capital projects with rotating equipment issues: An interview with Alan Wilson, Mechanical Technology Associate at The Dow Chemical Company
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 29 September 2017
Pump Engineer had the pleasure of speaking with Alan Wilson, a Mechanical Technology Associate who works at The Dow Chemical Company in Houston, Texas.
America's premier networking event for pump experts returns!
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 11 August 2017
Pump Engineer is pleased to present the second Pump Summit Americas Conference & Exhibition, which will take place on June 25th and 26th, 2018 in Houston, Texas.
Emerging pump opportunities in combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plants
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 01 August 2017
The thermal electric-power generation market is approaching a favorable inflection point that holds the promise of significant opportunities for pump suppliers over the next several years, at least. The drivers behind these opportunities relate, in general, to the rising attractiveness of natural gas as a primary fuel, and in particular, to the rising attractiveness of combined cycle gas turbine power plants.
Packings for pumps: The myth of high friction!
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 24 July 2017
Compression packings have tended to suffer from the image of an old fashioned technology not really suited to modern industrial processes and, in the case of rotating equipment, largely superseded by mechanical seals. In particular, it is widely believed that packings are inefficient in terms of energy consumption due to high frictional losses.
Bringing ideas to life with practical experience: An interview with a newly qualified Rotating Equipment Engineer at Phillips 66
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 17 July 2017
Pump Engineer was delighted to speak with Christa Hagedorn, a relatively new Rotating Equipment Engineer to the refining industry. Christa discusses her role at Phillips 66, her views on the benefits of practical work experience, as well as highlighting the long-term advantages to businesses in investing in newly qualified engineers.
The seal is the key: Prerequisites, requirements and intrinsically safe solutions
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 11 July 2017
The functional principle of centrifugal pumps is based on hydraulics with an impeller and casing, as well as a seal and bearing unit. The task of the sealing system is to seal off the rotating shaft against the surrounding environment. Depending on the type of application, various sealing systems are in use for centrifugal pumps. The influence of the type of seal on the performance of the pump should not be underestimated.
Pump technology: Demand in Asian region is booming
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 04 July 2017
In addition to the national B2B segment, relationships with partners in foreign countries have become increasingly important for many companies. An increase in globalization is one of the main reasons why regional economic areas are aiming to expand into the international market.
Solving problems ahead of time: An interview with Henri Azibert
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 08 June 2017
Pump Engineer interviewed Henri Azibert, Innovation and Technology Consultant and Technical Director of the Fluid Sealing Association (FSA).
Industry Outlook: Can you stand the rain?
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 25 May 2017
Andre Gafford discusses the change in oil and gas prices, and outlines some of the contributing factors for this positive upturn.
Implementing effective and robust resolutions for rotating equipment applications in the oil & gas industry
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 16 May 2017
Pump Engineer was delighted to speak with Consultant Mechanical Engineer, George Kontarakis, about his role at Petrofac, an international service provider to the oil and gas industry, from their London, UK offices.
Ditch the silos and optimize the supply chain [Part 2 of 3]
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 09 May 2017
For pump suppliers and the broader manufacturing sector, 2017 could be a stellar year for improving efficiencies and reducing costs. The reason? Supply chain optimization.
How knowledge assists with maintaining safety and reliability in oil & gas operations
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 02 May 2017
Manjul Saxena, Senior Rotating Equipment Engineer at BP in Surry, United Kingdom, recently spoke with Pump Engineer about his vast experience with pumps and pumping systems, and their applications in the oil and gas industry.
Industry Outlook: Pushing the Slurry!!
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 17 April 2017
What’s part liquid and part solid and can restrict flow or speed it up? If you answered “slurry” you would be absolutely correct. A slurry is a combination of separated solids and liquids such as mud and cement. They are used as a medium to transport as much solids as possible, hydraulically.
The SSPMA: Representing sump and sewage pump manufacturers since 1956
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 11 April 2017
The Sump and Sewage Pump Manufacturers Association (SSPMA) was formed in 1956, and since then it has continued to represent manufacturers of sump, effluent and sewage pumps, as well as component and accessory suppliers.
The dynamic role of an Equipment Engineer for Magellan Midstream Partners
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 04 April 2017
Pump Engineer got in contact with Brian McBroom, an Equipment Engineer for Magellan Midstream Partners, where he discussed his role within the company, his dealings with pumps and why he thinks his profession is an ideal one in the current oil & gas downturn.
Choosing submersible versus dry slurry pumps
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 27 March 2017
Slurry pumps are used to move mixtures of liquid and solids in many applications including mine drainage, the dredging of lagoons and the pumping of drilling mud. Generally, there are two types of slurry pumps that can be installed: dry or submersible.
Q&A: Sealing solutions for centrifugal pumps
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 21 March 2017
This article addresses common questions and challenges faced in sealing centrifugal pumps.
Safeguard your business success with the power of real-time data [Part 1 of 3]
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 14 March 2017
Manufacturers and distributors in the pump industry are not exempt from the reach of rapidly advancing technology. Those who hesitate to invest in and implement a robust IT infrastructure and sound data practices will eventually be left to watch as the competition passes by.
Improving pump reliability and avoiding early failures: An interview with Glenn Rogers
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 07 March 2017
Pump Engineer connected with Glenn Rogers, a Pump Specialist and Consultant who is based in Perth, Australia. Glenn discusses his vast knowledge of pumps, his experiences working as a consultant and the success of his training courses.
Reliability best practices for rotary positive displacement pump users
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 28 February 2017
If you’re responsible for any process using rotary positive displacement (PD) pumps, and if you’re interested in maximizing reliability, then read on. Pumping principles within this category include internal gear, external gear, vane, progressive cavity (PC), three-screw, peristaltic and timed-rotor pumps including lobe, circumferential piston and twin screw, plus a few lesser known variants.
A day in the life of a Burns & McDonnell intern
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 21 February 2017
Young engineers are the future of the industry. Without them, huge gaps in knowledge appear between generations. Pump Engineer spoke with Andrew Schulz, who interned at the engineering, architecture, construction, environmental and consulting firm, Burns & McDonnell, to get a sneak peek into his day-to-day intern life.
A practical guide to managing pipe stresses and nozzle loading by utilizing rubber expansion joints
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 14 February 2017
Pump engineers are justifiably concerned about the damaging effects of high nozzle loading. They are quick to point out that excessive loading will cause internal clearance issues and, in some cases, cracking to the pump casing. Unfortunately, this concern is often, and incorrectly, associated with rubber expansion joints based on their flexibility and an unacceptable pressure thrust force they could impose.
Q & A: Sealing Solutions
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 07 February 2017
This article addresses common questions and challenges faced in sealing centrifugal pumps. Readers are encouraged to submit questions for consideration in future print editions of Pump Engineer magazine.
The Battle Against Plagiarism
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 31 January 2017
Counterfeit products of poor quality can cause financial damages, as well as reputational damages, which is often impossible to estimate. Alexander Leisten and Christian Kruse, who both work with Wilo SE, outline the most efficient methods of tackling this situation: the use of property rights – like patents – as well as proper and secure distribution channels.
Monitoring changes & eliminating risks at the Debottlenecking Project in the Shell Scotford Refinery
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 24 January 2017
Pump Engineer was lucky enough to speak with Rotating Equipment Engineer, Diego Gomez, about his role within the Debottlenecking Project at the Shell Scotford Refinery, located in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada.
Rotary Gear Pumps: Chemical feed water treatment applications at nuclear power plants
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 17 January 2017
Huge quantities of water are used in nuclear power plants for a variety of operations. As such, there are a number of chemical processes that the water has to go through before it can be released back into the environment. When it comes to water treatment applications, small rotary gear pumps can be used as a means of improving performance rates, maintenance and costs.
Challenges for pump design and specification in low temperature environments
Posted by Deirdre Morgan | 21 December 2016
With the oil & gas projects moving more and more to severe environmental site conditions, the rotating equipment specialist is facing multiple and complex challenges to ensure safe and reliable operation using centrifugal pumps.
New UAE Fire Code to fight counterfeits, improve safety
Posted by Joanne McIntyre | 08 November 2016
The Steel Alliance Against Counterfeiting (SAAC)– an industry initiative of global steel product manufacturers committed to fighting against counterfeit steel products - has pledged its support for more stringent regulations controlling the use of key building materials in the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice 2016.

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