Sometimes when all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
You're going to want to partner with a pump manufacturer that has a full toolbox.
Let's take a look a recent example of this. A major food ingredient manufacturer needed positive displacement pumps to move protein solutions.
Question 1: Do we go with a traditional set up of a PD pump for process and a separate CIP supply centrifugal pump for cleaning OR do we find a PD pump that can do both?
Choice 1: Let's use a PD pump that can do both. We can save money and space for this production line by finding a PD pump that can run at higher speeds to be utilized for CIP supply as well. In the world of sanitary PD pumps, this eliminates most technologies, specifically most rotary PD pumps (lobe or circumferential piston). Plus, we can eliminate extra piping and valves around the CIP pump.
Question 2: What are the choices for a dual-duty PD pump? How do we get the most bang for our buck?
Choice 2: A 'twin screw' is a type of PD pump that can perform both functions. Okay, now our choices down to only a few manufacturers' pumps. Before we even compare the different brands, is there is another option? Yes, actually. Fristam has developed a dual-duty pump meant for lighter duty. The FL3 is rotary PD pump but features unique helical rotors that allow it to create suction and provide high-speed flow with low pulsation. It is a lower cost alternative to a twin screw pump. The FL3 is limited, however, in that it provides a little less suction and operates at lower pressure and speed than a twin screw pump.
So, on less demanding production lines, we can use the FL3.When conditions are more difficult, when process pressures increase, we'll use Fristam FDS twin screw pumps. Overall, we'll save money. Only Fristam offers this solution.
Find the right tool for your job. Find the right pump for your application.