Operational resilience and reduced carbon emissions stem from efficient pump testing and utilisation of the thermodynamic method

Pump Efficiency Testing for Wastewater Pump Stations

Napier City Council engaged us to test pump efficiency and system performance at the Taradale Road Wastewater Pumping Station. To achieve the most accurate and comprehensive measure of pump efficiency and system performance, we used the thermodynamic method.

The thermodynamic method uses measurements from probes inserted through tapping points in the system to measure temperature and pressure. We convert this data to efficiency measures using algorithms from international standard for precision performance tests and takes from 30 to 60 minutes per pump. Analysing the test results, we identified the most efficient pump combinations and provided a framework for making decisions on the correct size of any replacement pumps.

The council can use the testing and results to improve accuracy in forecasted maintenance requirements, verify asset operation and appropriateness for the site, determine reliability of pumps, and provide an independent validation of capacity flows, pressures, and calibration of modelling. These factors help inform operational efficiencies, creating savings on electricity costs and, subsequently, reduce carbon emissions.