Message WWW.MPTMAG.COMMARCH 2025MATERIAL MATERIAL CHOICES CHOICES FOR SUMPSFOR SUMPSA PUMP OWNER’S GUIDEA PUMP OWNER’S GUIDEAUTOMATED AUTOMATED WASTEWATER WASTEWATER TREATMENTTREATMENTCOST-EFFECTIVE EPA COST-EFFECTIVE EPA COMPLIANCECOMPLIANCETHE LAST THE LAST FRONTIERFRONTIERPUMPS AT THE SOUTH POLEPUMPS AT THE SOUTH POLE
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WWW.MPTMAG.COMMARCH 2025MATERIAL MATERIAL CHOICES CHOICES FOR SUMPSFOR SUMPSA PUMP OWNER’S GUIDEA PUMP OWNER’S GUIDEAUTOMATED AUTOMATED WASTEWATER WASTEWATER TREATMENTTREATMENTCOST-EFFECTIVE EPA COST-EFFECTIVE EPA COMPLIANCECOMPLIANCETHE LAST THE LAST FRONTIERFRONTIERPUMPS AT THE SOUTH POLEPUMPS AT THE SOUTH POLE
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MARCH 2025MARCH 2025A NOTE ON THIS ISSUE:Welcome to another issue of MPT! Spring has sprung for most of our readers, but we start this issue checking in on pump performance amid subzero temperatures (pg. 16). Antarctica is often referred to as “the last frontier,” but Casey Bowes provides some insight on how Finish Thompson’s pumps keep running in some of the planet’s harshest conditions.In our Water & Wastewater Focus, longtime MPT contributor Del Williams delves into how manufacturers can signicantly reduce costs while remaining EPA compliant (pg. 20). Industrial facilities frequently face challenges with wastewater management, needing affordable solutions that align with regulations. See how automated wastewater treatment systems have emerged as a vital solution.Finally, we love to put a spotlight on continuing education and different approaches to solving real-world problems. If you’ve been wondering how different material compositions affect the performance of sumps in a pumping system, then look no further. Romtec’s Mark Sheldon is here to walk you through all the options (pg. 30). Enjoy!WWW.MPTMAG.COM 3100 Lorna Rd., Ste 101 Birmingham, AL 35216J. CAMPBELL VP of Editorial jay@mptmag.comJEFF FLETCHER Publisher jeff@mptmag.com TIM O'HARA Associate Publisher tim@mwsmag.comKEVIN McCLAREN Media Consultant kevin@mptmag.comMICHAEL FISCHBACH Media Consultant michael@mcsmag.comSETH SAUNDERS Digital Media SpecialistINGRID BERKY Office ManagerModern Pumping Today®SUBSCRIPTIONSFor all changes, go to:WWW.MPTMAG.COMClick the SUBSCRIPTIONS button in the main menuEDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD:TERRY BELL Product Manager, ABBROBERT G. HAVRIN Director of Technology, Centrisys CorporationMICHAEL MANCINI Consultant and Trainer, Mancini Consulting ServicesJOHN M. ROACH Engineering Manager for New Product Development, Trebor International, Inc.: A Unit of IDEXLISA RILES Business Development Manager, Wastewater Pumps, Xylem Inc.: FlygtFRANK KNOWLES SMITH III Executive Vice President, Blacoh Surge Control GREG TOWSLEY Director of Regulatory and Technical Affairs, GrundfosTREY WALTERS, P.E. President, Applied Flow TechnologyJ. Campbell, EditorModern Pumping TodayWWW.HIGHLANDSPUBLICATIONS.COM 3100 Lorna Rd. Ste. 101 | Birmingham, Alabama 35216CHRIS GARMONCFOTIM GARMONCEORUSSELL HADDOCKPresidentNo part of this publication JULY be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage-and-retrieval system without permission in writing from the publisher. The views expressed by those not on the staff of Modern Pumping Today, or who are not specically employed by Highlands Publications, Inc., are purely their own. All Industry News material has either been submitted by the subject company or pulled directly from their corporate website, which is assumed to be cleared for release. Comments and submissions are welcome, and can be submitted to jay@mptmag.com.@modpumpmag
SUBSCRIPTIONSFor all changes, go to:WWW.MPTMAG.COMClick the SUBSCRIPTIONS button in the main menuMOTOR TEMPERATURE SENSORSSTOCKING DISTRIBUTOR OF SENSORS, HEATERS AND CONTROLSwww.RewindSensors.com | 1.800.794.5883IN STOCK AND READY FOR SHIPMENT!STICKSRIBBONSTHERMISTORSTHERMOSTATSASSEMBLIESPROBESEMBEDMENT
CONTENTSMARCH 2025MARCH 20251012203026INDUSTRY NEWS What's happening in the industry ..................................... 6 TRADE SHOW PROFILE ProMat 2025 ............................................................................... 10CASE STUDIES Slurry transfer system greatly enhanced .................. 12 Landia pumps go to work at Metcalfe Farms The last frontier ...................................................................... 16 How pumps support research stations and renewable energy on Antarctica WATER & WASTEWATER FOCUS Automated wastewater treatment the right move for industrial facilities ............................................. 20 Manufacturers signicantly reduce costs while remaining EPA compliantMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITY Safety controller simplies designs ............................. 24 New FS1B Safety Controller does the job of multiple modules The right size at your ngertips ...................................... 26 Completing control valve projects with present-day online sizing and selection tools PUMP SOLUTIONS Material choices for pumping system sumps ........... 30 The right material makes all the difference MODERN PUMPING PRODUCTS Featured Product: GRUNDFOS DDA Smart Digital Dosing Pump ........ 34EFFICIENCY POINT Tomorrow’s skills in today’s workforce ..................... 36 Kevin Anderson on how to build a skilled workforce in renewable energy
HONEYWELL TO ACQUIRE SUNDYNEHoneywell has agreed to acquire Sundyne from private equity firm Warburg Pincus for $2.16 billion in an all-cash transaction. Sundyne is a leader in the design, manufacturing and aftermarket support of highly-engineered pumps and gas compressors used in process industries. The addition of Sundyne’s differentiated equipment will enhance the ability of Honeywell’s Energy and Sustainability Solutions (ESS) business segment to drive innovation and efficiency, while supporting critical energy security needs across the world.The combination will result in an improved product offering for customers as Honeywell Forge, a leading IoT platform, will enable the digitalization of Sundyne’s equipment to enhance reliability and predictive maintenance. Utilizing Honeywell’s advanced R&D capabilities, the combined company will also be able to further accelerate new product development in the pumps and compressors space.“By combining Honeywell’s top-tier technology with Sundyne’s leading process industry solutions, this acquisition will further enhance our dynamic Honeywell UOP business and create strategic growth opportunities in attractive verticals,” says Vimal Kapur, chair and CEO of Honeywell. “Sundyne’s vast installed base of top-of-the-line pumps and compressors will further strengthen Honeywell’s brand.”TOPPOINT HOLDINGS EXPANDS IMPORT DRAYAGE OPERATIONSToppoint Holdings Inc. announces a strategic collaboration with a prominent freight broker and warehousing third-party logistics provider specializing in Asian imports. Based in New Jersey, the partner operates an 85,000 square-foot facility and has engaged Toppoint Inc. to manage 200 import loads per month, with the potential to increase volume up to fourfold by year-end.This collaboration aligns with Toppoint's strategic growth initiatives in the import drayage sector, allowing the company to strengthen its presence in a rapidly expanding market. The global drayage services market was valued at $22.76 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $30.39 billion by 2031. This growth is expected to be driven by increasing international trade volumes and the rising demand for efficient port-to-warehouse logistics solutions. By leveraging Toppoint's expertise in container logistics, the partnership is designed to streamline freight operations, reduce cycle times, and enhance container flow efficiency into the warehousing facility, positioning both companies for sustained growth."This new client aligns perfectly with our expansion strategy in the drayage import vertical," says Leo Chan, CEO of Toppoint Holdings.6 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTINDUSTRY NEWSINDUSTRY NEWS
8 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTINDUSTRY NEWSINDUSTRY NEWSABB TO INVEST $120 MILLION TO EXPAND U.S. MANUFACTURINGABB announces it will invest $120 million in the United States to expand the production capacity of its low voltage electrification products. The investment will enable ABB to meet increasing demand from customers in a wide range of key growth industries, including data centers, buildings and utilities. ABB expects to create fifty new jobs at a new advanced manufacturing facility in Selmer, Tennessee, and will double the size of its existing manufacturing site in Senatobia, Mississippi, creating 200 new jobs."Demand is increasing steadily for advanced electrification technologies, driven by growth in key sectors including data centers and utilities. Today's announcement will support our future growth in the US, ABB's largest global market," says Morten Wierod, ABB's chief executive officer. "Our new facilities in Selmer and Senatobia will keep our US customers at the cutting edge of the energy transition, and help them meet their performance, productivity and energy efficiency goals."As part of the commitment, ABB will invest $80 million to build a new, 320,000 square foot facility in Selmer, Tennessee. ABB will also invest $40 million to double the footprint of its Senatobia, Mississippi. EMERSON PARTNERSHIP BOLSTERS SEMICONDUCTORS AND AIA new partnership between industrial technology company Emerson and the University of Texas at Austin will support advanced research into artificial intelligence, automation, energy, semiconductors, and more.The three-year agreement includes UT research lab upgrades, contributions to help launch the new Semiconductor Science and Engineering master's degree program, in partnership with the Texas Institute for Electronics (TIE), and help develop the next generation of talent skilled in automation. More broadly, UT will become a core research partner for Emerson as it delves further into semiconductors, AI, energy and other areas in the future."Emerson has been an important partner for UT, the Cockrell School of Engineering and our chemical engineering department for decades," says Roger Bonnecaze, dean of the Cockrell School and a chemical engineering faculty member. "This investment will strengthen our relationship, further elevate Austin as a national technology leader and push the boundaries of research, innovation and education in semiconductors, energy, AI, automation, and more."The total value of the agreement is $8.5 million. Emerson has now contributed more than $20 million to UT.
10 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTTRADE SHOW PROFILETRADE SHOW PROFILEProMat is the place where manufacturing and supply chain professionals help build the future of supply chains to discover that trend or technology that will take their supply chain to the next level of success. Attendees from all aspects of supply chain dynamics and inputs will discover the latest solutions to move their business forward as industry-leading innovators showcase their latest manufacturing, distribution,and supply chain equipment and systems at ProMat 2025, March 17 through 20, at McCormick Place in Chicago.THE STATE OF TODAY’S SUPPLY CHAINSOnly at ProMat can professionals experience the latest innovations from more than 1.100 solution providers and get to know the latest ideas that boost productivity in four keynotes and in more than 100 seminars. Attendees have the opportunity to build strong business partnerships with suppliers from all over the world as well as see practical demonstrations of the latest technologies and innovations.WHERE THE SUPPLY CHAIN COMES TOGETHERPROMAT 2025PROMAT 2025 AT A GLANCEWHEN: MARCH 17-20, 2025WHERE: MCCORMICK PLACE, CHICAGO, ILLINOISWEBSITE: WWW.PROMATSHOW.COM
MARCH 2025 | 11WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTProMat 2025 is the only trade show where you can personally see the best solutions and innovations that the industry has to offer in action and where you will meet the leading suppliers in person. Best of all, there is no additional charge to attend exhibitions and conference sessions.DISCOVER THE NEXT BIG IDEAProMat attendees can dscover innovation at its peak in the StartUp Pavilion, where groundbreaking products and disruptive solutions come to life: connecting with trailblazing entrepreneurs, experiencing live demos, and witnessing the future taking shape right before their eyes. The StartUp Pavilion is a specialized area on the ProMat show floor where companies showcase emerging supply chain tech and innovation.Also, attendees won't want to miss the exhilarating live StartUp Pitch Contest taking place on Tuesday afternoon in the StartUp Theater. But the excitement doesn't end there. The StartUp Theater boasts a comprehensive schedule of enlightening sessions meticulously crafted to empower supply chain professionals. Attendees can delve into thought-provoking discussions, glean insights from industry experts, and stay at the forefront of evolving trends.THE NEXT GENERATION OF INNOVATIONProMat is more than a meeting place of industry insiders—it’s also the launchpad for those entering the industry on the ground floor. Students ready to take their first step into the exciting world of material handling and supply chain industries can join the excitement on Wednesday, Student Day at ProMat 2025–a one-of-a-kind event created just for emerging professionals!In partnership with the College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE), Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA, and the Material Handling Education Foundation (MHEFI), MHI is excited to present an interactive day where today’s students can connect with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge technologies, and discover exciting career paths.THE CHAIN IS STRONGWhatever solutions attendees need to succeed, from manufacturing innovation to inspiration for their supply chain, they can find it all at ProMat. At every step, attendees see what's new and what the future holds for supply chain operations.
12 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTCASE STUDIESCASE STUDIESAt its dairy operation in the Yorkshire Dales, the introduction of new separators has given Metcalfe Farms the opportunity to futureproof the pumps it uses to transfer large volumes of slurry from its 2,000 (1,300 dairy) cows.Separating slurry has undoubted benefits, but putting together a streamlined slurry transfer system covering three tanks has presented plenty of challenges, especially with the need to feed the site’s 200kWh biogas plant.Aside from the separators, one of first issues was to address the final pump in sequence that ultimately sends slurry (about 6 to 8 percent dry matter) roughly 400 feet (and over 30 feet of lift) up to the 924,600 gallon anaerobic digester.A BETTER DESIGNAnnoying bits and pieces inevitably find their way into slurry, which was enough to make the pump block quite regularly.“I used to dread coming down here to sort it out,” says Robert Metcalfe, who oversees all things engineering on the dairy side of the business.“The pump did an okay job when working but wasn’t the best with solids. It wasn’t a pleasant job spending over an hour unblocking it each time; a two-man job, so all very time-consuming, especially having to retrieve it with a pipe because there was no clutch at the bottom.”That’s all changed now with the old unit replaced by a Chopper Pump made by Landia, who also supplied an integrated guide rail and a bespoke pipework system for easy access and lifting.“Everything flows through so much smoother now,” adds Metcalfe. “It is a much better design. You don’t have to worry about any sort of pipe bending or extra weight of the added pipe. Generally speaking, the new pump doesn’t block, although just recently a large chunk of rope stopped it! But unlike before, it’s now a job for one person, and on this occasion, only took 20 minutes before simply lowering it back in again.”AD PLANT DIGESTATE PROVIDES SIGNIFICANT BENEFITSAt the biogas plant, which is run by Iona Management Services, a second CHP (combined heat and power) engine has recently been added, which will help increase the amount of clean energy that is exported to the grid. Metcalfe supplies a slurry-only feedstock to the AD plant, and then buys power back at a discounted rate for its own use. In the winter this is around 300 kilowatt hours, rising to 360 kilowatt hours in the summer. In addition to providing power for the dairy and the sell-on to the grid, the digestate from the AD plant also provides significant benefits, as Metcalfe explains, “The digestate does wonders for our grassland. We spread a little bit on the crops, but it’s mainly focused on the grass. This year we did five cuts over 1,000 acres. We hardly spend anything on chemical fertilizer now.”Landia pumps go to work at Metcalfe Farms BY SOREN RASMUSSEN, LANDIASLURRY TRANSFER SYSTEM GREATLY ENHANCEDA new Landia pumps sends slurry over 300 feet to an anaerobic digester.
MARCH 2025 | 13WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTWorking closely with Landia to look at how best to integrate the new separators, a 22kW pump was chosen to manage the slurry feeding task, with an existing long-shaft Landia pump moved up from its existing task on another tank.“We’ve had this pump since 2004,” adds Metcalfe, “which has understandably endured plenty of wear, but when tested by Landia engineers during a service, the twenty-year-old unit was still happily pumping full pipe, which I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised by. Now that we have separators, we can remove solid material to reduce our environmental impact.”To replace the old long shaft unit, a new 7.5kW Landia Chopper Pump has now been installed so that slurry levels don’t rise. Meanwhile, the existing Landia long shaft chopper pumps, which have already been in service for 20 years, since Metcalfe had its first shed, continue to work away.VERY STRONGLY BUILT“The pump at the front of the loop system that has been created gets plenty of pain, so no surprise it’s had some repairs over the years, but steadily pumping away, it, with the others, has ensured that the dairy’s channels never fill up. We’ve found that by keeping our channels narrow, the pumps keep them flushed out completely, whereas with wider channels, the whole thing would still need flushing out. Now that we have it all set up on timers, it’s seamless, so far less hassle,” Metcalfe continues. “The Landia pumps are very strongly built things, and I like the fact that they are electric and quite modular, so we don’t have to hook up to a tractor. This very much fits in with what we constantly work towards with fewer engines turning and less burning of diesel. One Landia pump we’ve had now for three years, and it’s never given us a bit of trouble.” 2,000 cows at Metcalfe Farms benefit from exceptional animal welfare.
14 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTCASE STUDIESCASE STUDIESOver in the Metcalfe milking parlor, Robert Metcalfe has been glad to see the back of having to replace small vortex pumps that blocked or blew completely, even though the liquids are very watery.“As soon as any foreign debris or plastics came into play, straining the pump, we were having to buy a new one almost every six months due to burnout or component failure, so as they clearly weren’t up to the job,” he explains, “I called Landia for help. Also, the pump(s) had been installed on winches and over time, blockages and sediment buildup forced us to keep raising the pumps closer to the top of the tank, which in turn meant we ended up with sediment right up to the mouth of the tank.”WORRY-FREE INSTALLATION AND PERFORMANCE“We now have a new 5.5kW Landia pump that just flies through any debris or solids, which are an inevitable part of dairy wastewater/slurry,” Metcalfe says. “Nothing settles out with this new, much faster pump. It’s absolutely spot-on, and what’s great is that it is completely automatic. Since we’ve had it installed, we haven’t had to touch it. You can configure it so that in this case it knows we want to keep this tank pumped out and empty. The sensor knows the tank’s dimensions and capacity. It is so much better than what we're doing before.”Landia pumps are still going strong after 20 years of service at Metcalfe Farms. Robert Metcalfe (left) with Josh Edge from Landia.Robert Metcalfe (right) and Landia's Josh Edge.
MARCH 2025 | 15WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTSynching the pump operation, together with the investment in separators is just part of how Robert Metcalfe is helping focus on improvements to help take the diary part of the business forward, but without expanding too quickly. The dairy provides around 45 tons of milk per day to Paynes Dairies at Boroughbridge. Exceptionally high animal welfare standards for the Metcalfe cows continue to see a rise in yields.“Going forward,” Metcalfe adds, “everything matters, even the little things. For all its benefits, we’d possibly consider sand bedding, but I don’t think our slurry channels would take it, and there’ such a big wear factor on pumps and machines. The sawdust we use is perfect, apart from the price!“We’ve also been improving the lighting for our cows, again with some help from an automatic, dimmable system. Previously in hot summer spells, you could see that our cows were uncomfortable, which we don’t want. The milk output would drop. As well as the lighting, we’ve also put up new roof sheets to block out any intensive heat, which has made a big, positive difference.”“In time here we will probably phase out other brands of pumps as they come to the end of their life or cause problems, and just stick with Landia,” he concludes. “I think it helps that they focus on pumps, rather than some who try to provide everything, plus we always get very good backup and no problems with the supply of spare parts.” Soren Rasmussen is the director of Landia, Inc. Landia uses its nearly ninety years of experience to continue to develop new and efficient products and solutions. Together with its customers, Landia is aiming for new heights. Customers get a partner with a strong team of happy employees who focus on what matters most to them: good solutions that solve the task at the lowest possible cost. For more information, call 919.466.0603, email info@landiainc.com, visit www.landiainc.com.The tank in the Metcalfe parlor now benefits from a Landia pump.
CASE STUDIESHow pumps support research stations and renewable energy on Antarctica BY CASEY BOWES, FINISH THOMPSONTHE LAST FRONTIERAntarctica is often referred to as “the last frontier”—and with good reason. As of 2023, there are no inhabitants on the mainland, but the continent is host to approximately forty-five permanent research stations and more than fifty seasonal and/or subantarctic stations, all of which are maintained by fifty-five different countries.As more and more research stations pop up across Antarctica, the need for pumps and pumping solutions is greater than ever.RESEARCH ON ANTARCTICAIn addition to the operation of nearly 100 research stations throughout the year, many countries are also exploring the use of renewable energy on Antarctica. Additionally, each research station needs to address fuel and water needs, as well as delivery of chemicals and fluids needed for research purposes.All of these tasks necessitate the use of pumps for a wide variety of purposes, including:• Drinking water and wastewater management• Tanker off-loading• Fuel storage and use• Oil and fuel spill containment• Wind turbine operationBut let’s start with the basics, namely the 5,000 people on Antarctica during the summer months, and more than 1,000 all year long. Which begs the question—where does all their waste go?ADDRESSING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTAccording to National Geographic, waste goes into the environment. In an article that looks at pollution in Antarctica, it was discovered that the U.S. McMurdo Station, located on the Ross Ice Shelf on the southern end of the continent, was releasing toxins into the McMurdo Sound.More specifically, the wastewater from the base was found to contain sewage, toxins, organic and inorganic matter, pathogens, and even medications into the water. The worst of these was a toxic flame retardant known as hexabromocyclododecane, or HBCD. As shocking as this is, what’s even more concerning is that ecotoxicologists found that the levels of HBCD in the environment around the research bases equals those found in the rivers of major cities in the United States.WASTEWATER TREATMENT IN EXTREME LOCATIONSWastewater treatment is a critical component of any community, even one as small as a research base. With most treatment plants, contaminants are removed from the water through a variety of processes to separate “sludge” from the resultant reclaimed water. And these processes need pumps.In fact, pumps are used at virtually every step of the wastewater treatment process, from unloading chemicals from tank trucks to bulk storage and from bulk storage to day tanks to emptying batch treatment tanks. Pumps are also needed to disinfect treated wastewater and dechlorinate wastewater before discharge. They also support the flow of regeneration chemicals for ion exchange tanks.Wastewater doesn’t need to be a liability. With the right pumps in place, you can have your research and your clean environment too. Which leads us to the renewable energy and green efforts currently underfoot in Antarctica. RENEWABLE ENERGY’S ROLEAs of 2022, the predominant sources of electricity and heat on Antarctica were from fossil fuels. While these sources are efficient and consistent, they have a negative environmental impact. Given this, research stations on the continent have been exploring the use of renewable energy sources, namely solar and wind alternatives. In fact, newly built stations such as the Princess Elisabeth Station, as well as major renovation of existing stations, are consciously working to rely primarily on renewable energy.As Antarctica moves toward a fossil fuel-free future, the growing dependence on renewable resources require a reliable infrastructure, and this means reliable pumps.THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOBPumps, specifically sealless centrifugal pumps, are the perfect choice for wind turbines, due to their ability to run for years without a coolant leak. This is particularly 16 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPT
MARCH 2025 | 17WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPT
18 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTCASE STUDIESCASE STUDIESimportant for turbines in remote locations, such as Antarctica. The sealless design not only improves reliability but also enhances safety by preventing the pumped liquid from leaking, a crucial benefit for offshore wind turbines where environmental protection and operational continuity are paramount.Solar power, which accounts for one-third of the renewable energy worldwide, also requires pumps to harness the energy they generate. Solar cells require fume scrubbers to neutralize the chemicals used in the solar energy process and then safely vent them. To operate, these scrubbers require heavy-duty pumps. If a pump quits due to a seal failure or other malfunction, the fume scrubber stops, and the solar cell manufacturing tool shuts down to prevent the toxic chemicals from being released untreated. This results in extremely costly downtime while the pump is being repaired or replaced. To prevent this occurrence, many scrubbers use corrosion-resistant mag-drive pumps. BUILT FOR RELIABILITYAt Finish Thompson, we have pumps that support the water, wastewater, and renewable energy industries across the globe. We support wastewater management at virtually every step of the treatment process, from unloading chemicals from tank trucks to bulk storage and from bulk storage to day tanks to emptying batch treatment tanks. Additionally, FTI is ideally suited to maintain system integrity in a variety of green energy applications. From wind turbines and solar panels to flow batteries and fuel cells, our comprehensive line of industrial chemical pumps combines durability and versatility to provide essential components for a full range of sustainable energy applications. Antarctica truly is one of the final frontiers in our world. And pumps are an important key to keeping this unspoiled continent clean and vibrant for years to come. Finish Thompson Inc. (FTI), an international leader in the corrosive chemical transfer industry, has been dedicated to its customers’ needs since 1951. For nearly seventy-five years, FTI has fostered a culture of foresight and adaptability to stay in touch with industry trends and growth. Today, we manufacture more than 10 different lines of pumps, including drum and barrel pumps, centrifugal pumps, and air-operated double diaphragm (AODD) pumps. FTI is proud to serve distributors and customers on six continents and support nearly forty different industries across the globe. For more information, visit www.finishthompson.com.
20 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTWATER & WASTEWATER FOCUSWATER & WASTEWATER FOCUSIndustrial facilities frequently face challenges with wastewater management, needing solutions that align with EPA and local regulations while keeping costs under control. Automated wastewater treatment systems have emerged as a vital solution, offering significant advantages by streamlining processes and reducing the need for manual oversight. These systems not only help businesses stay compliant but also actively save on labor, treatment costs, and waste disposal, making them a cost-effective and practical choice.TRADITION VS. INNOVATIONFor many facilities, efficiently separating contaminants from wastewater is imperative to legally discharge the treated water into sewer systems or reuse it for other processes. Traditional methods, however, can be cumbersome, requiring multiple stages, various chemical treatments, and consistent manual intervention. Even automated systems often fall short, necessitating in-person monitoring for tasks such as chemical application, mixing, and separation, all while still sometimes producing subpar results that fail to meet regulatory standards.The alternative option of hauling industrial wastewater offsite for processing is viable but prohibitively expensive. Treating the wastewater onsite is a far more economical approach. Proper treatment produces effluent safe for sewer discharge and a residual sludge that passes toxicity tests, qualifying as non-hazardous waste suitable for landfill disposal. With recent advancements in technology, the integration of fully automated wastewater treatment systems has become a much easier and more cost-efficient solution.KEEP IT SIMPLEModern automated wastewater treatment systems simplify what was once a labor-intensive process into an efficient one-step operation. These systems effectively separate suspended solids, emulsified oils, heavy metals, and other contaminants, transforming the waste into easily manageable sludge in just minutes. The treated water can then be filtered further—using options like de-watering tables, bag filters, or Manufacturers signicantly reduce costs while remaining EPA compliant BY SAL BOUTUREIRA, SABO INDUSTRIALAUTOMATED WASTEWATER TREATMENT THE RIGHT MOVE FOR INDUSTRIAL FACILITIESAutomated systems not only reliably meet regulatory wastewater requirements, but also significantly reduce the cost of treatment, labor, and disposal.
MARCH 2025 | 21WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTrotary drum vacuums—before being discharged into sewer systems or reused within the facility. Importantly, the solids generated in this process are non-leachable and classified as non-hazardous, satisfying all testing requirements.SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY SYSTEMA broad range of systems is available, from manual and semi-automatic options to fully automated closed-loop systems. For facilities looking to improve efficiency without a complete overhaul, existing setups can often be augmented or modified to achieve better results. Each facility’s wastewater stream is unique, requiring tailored solutions based on its specific composition and local regulatory demands. Before implementing a new system, businesses must analyze the chemical makeup of their wastewater and consider factors such as volume, local regulations, and available space for installation.SOLUTIONS AT WORKOne notable success story involves a large, corrugated manufacturer that processes over eight million square feet of packaging daily. Faced with wastewater challenges from the cleanup of its flexographic printing presses, the company opted for an EconoFlow automated wastewater system from Sabo Industrial Corp. The New York-based manufacturer is distributor and integrator of industrial waste treatment equipment and solutions, including batch and fully automated systems, Cleartreat separating agents, bag filters, and accessories. The solution, combined with separating agents, featured components such as a high-volume mix unit, large capacity feed hopper, bag housing for solids removal, self-indexing dewatering table, and final polishing vessels. Sensors ensure proper material flow and operation, and onscreen audio-visual alerts indicate if anything requires attention.Effective separating agents which agglomerate with the solids in the wastewater so the solids can be safely and effectively separated out are essential.
22 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTWATER & WASTEWATER FOCUSWATER & WASTEWATER FOCUSRemote monitoring capabilities using human machine interface (HMI) technology allowed the system to be adjusted remotely, reducing labor demands and ensuring consistent compliance with water quality standards. Integrated webcams provide real-time feedback, allowing for necessary adjustments without requiring in-person supervision.While the machinery itself is a critical component of wastewater treatment, the choice of separating agents also plays a crucial role. Effective separating agents bind with wastewater solids, facilitating their removal. Sabo Industrial uses a special type of bentonite clay in a line of wastewater treatment chemicals called ClearTreat. This line of wastewater treatment chemicals is formulated to break oil and water emulsion, provide heavy metals removal, and promote flocculation, agglomeration and suspended solids removal.Distinguished by its large surface area and negative charge, bentonite excels at encapsulating contaminants such as heavy metals, oils, and organic pollutants. Unlike polymer-based alternatives, which may fail to fully encapsulate toxins, bentonite-based solutions ensure that contaminants remain securely encapsulated, even under agitation. This not only simplifies the treatment process but also lowers associated costs.DOING THE DIRTY WORKAnother example comes from a heavy equipment dealer operating several locations across New York and Connecticut. The business required a reliable system for treating wastewater from equipment washdowns that often contained oil, grease, suspended solids, cleaning chemicals, and heavy metals. The solution included a 10-gallon-per-minute EconoFlow system equipped with features such as bag filters, polishing vessels, and water storage tanks for reuse. The system integrated HMI capabilities, allowing remote monitoring and adjustment of the equipment when needed. It provided efficient, compliant, and cost-effective one-step wastewater treatment.WORTH EVERY PENNYBy adopting automated systems and advanced separating agents, manufacturers can greatly simplify wastewater treatment processes, reduce costs, and ensure regulatory compliance. While these systems require an upfront investment, they are far more economical than the ongoing expenses associated with waste hauling or non-compliance fines. Businesses looking to transform their wastewater management approach will find automated solutions to be both reliable and effective, paving the way for a sustainable and affordable future. Sal Boutureira is the president of Sabo Industrial Corp., located in Orange County, New York. Boutureira has been in the wastewater treatment industry since 1992. He started Sabo Industrial by developing a single step automated system for safe wastewater treatment using Cleartreat separating agents to significantly reduce the cost of treatment, labor and disposal. He believes that every place, every waste stream, is unique, and he is passionate about finding the best, customized solution for each problem. For more information, call 845.562.5751, email info@saboindustrial.com, or visit www.saboindustrial.com.Industrial facilities frequently face challenges with wastewater management, needing solutions that align with EPA and local regulations while keeping costs under control.By adopting automated systems and advanced separating agents, manufacturers can greatly simplify wastewater treatment processes, reduce costs, and ensure regulatory compliance.
LEARNING FOR TODAY’S PUMP INDUSTRY, AT YOUR FINGERTIPSWhether your work focuses on water and wastewater, chemical processing, or original equipment manufacturing, you need to stay up to date with the latest training. MPT’s hosted webinars bring industry experts from leading companies to your computer and offer professional certificates for completion.FOR MORE INFORMATION:J. Campbell (jay@mptmag.com) visit our website mptmag.comWEBINARSWEBINARSWEBINARS
24 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYMachine safety will always be a concern across myriad fields in the industrial sector. However, despite technological advances and careful regulatory oversight, some operators still have difficulty in achieving their ideal safety standards due to the often cumbersome and time-consuming work needed to prepare and program the equipment their work demands—not to mention the cost. With this goal in mind, IDEC Corporation is launching the FS1B Safety Controller—an upgrade of the popular FS1A device—providing additional features. The FS1B lets designers create streamlined machine safety systems with multiple safety channels by using any of twenty-four preset safety logic strategies selected with DIP switch configuration—with no programming required. SUPPLANTING SEPARATE MODULESStandard safety circuit designs often use many safety relays to accommodate multiple inputs from emergency stop (E-stop) buttons, light curtains, and other safety devices to provide a safety interlocking output for de-energizing associated equipment. The FS1B consolidates this functionality into a compact, standalone form factor, with convenient and reliable push-in terminals.DIP switches and a single “enter” pushbutton provide quick and easy setting of the safety logic strategy, inputs, and power off delay timer, and these settings can be locked in with a protective cover secured by a marked cable tie to prevent accidental changes. Colored LEDs and seven-segment numeric displays provide clear at-a-glance device and input/output status.The FS1B includes twelve universal discrete inputs (assignable as up to six safety channels). For safety devices, each dual-channel pair of inputs can be used in the default setting, or it can be changed as follows: direct opening input, dependent input, NO/NC input, or safety input II—each with or without synchronization monitoring. Alternately, individual inputs can be set to monitor non-safety devices, such as reset or other external signals, as part of the logic. Four safety outputs provide the capability to de-energize multiple equipment or systems. SIMPLE SAFETY SETUPOther safety products may require multiple devices, configuration software and programming, drivers, and then additional program certification. The FS1B overcomes these shortcomings with 24 built-in safety logic strategies, each of which are certified on this device by a trusted independent body to ensure proper and reliable performance. This pre-certification enhances system safety, simplifies the design process, and streamlines the overall approval process for machinery certification. New FS1B Safety Controller does the job of multiple modules BY LUIZ SHIDA, IDEC SAFETY CONTROLLER SIMPLIFIES DESIGNS
MARCH 2025 | 25WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTSome examples of typical safety logic strategy options include partial stop, mode switching, switch/sensor combined, OR logic, and two-handed logic control. A web-based online simulator allows users to quickly select their application requirements, determine the best configuration, and obtain a circuit diagram output to document the settings. The FS1B carries applicable IEC 61508, ISO 13849, UL508, and other approvals. Depending on the application, the safety performance can be up to SIL 3, PLe, Category 4. Powered by industry standard 24V DC, with a wide operating temperature range of -10 to +55 Deg C, and robust vibration resistance, the FS1B will excel in most any control panel location, whether on-board or external to the protected equipment.FLEXIBLE SAFETY FOR A MULTITUDE OF APPLICATIONSWhether for small-scale systems and production processes, or as part of a larger safety control system, the FS1B streamlines designs while improving safety. Typical industries and machines/equipment with these needs include injection molding, semiconductor manufacturing, metalworking, pharmaceuticals, food processing and packaging, robotics, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and others. Of special interest for OEMs or other designers of equipment with multiple options or configurations, the FS1B can be designed into the controls once, and then adjusted with the safety logic strategy to adapt for various types of inputs. This allows for a standardized design supporting flexible equipment options, minimizing development effort, while simplifying stocking and control panel fabrication.The IDEC FS1B Safety Controller is just one part of a comprehensive safety solutions portfolio for a wide variety of applications. As with all its products, IDEC offers free tech support for the FS1B, with no service or support contract required. IDEC Corporation is a global supplier that has provided innovative and reliable industrial automation and control products since 1945. Covering a broad range of market needs, these feature-rich and value-driven products include PLCs, human machine interfaces (HMIs), safety products, and other industrial automation components. By delivering world-class products backed by personalized service and highly-rated technical support, IDEC enables design engineers to create lean, cost-effective and safe solutions to optimize their automation applications. For additional information, visit www.idec.com.
26 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYFor decades, selecting and sizing control valves was a complex and time-consuming task. Only large control valve manufacturers provided the necessary tools, and they were often restricted to specialists with deep technical expertise. However, modern online control valve sizing and selection tools have dramatically changed the landscape, making the process more accessible and efficient.Today, valve professionals can avoid spending hours crunching numbers or navigating complex equations. Instead, they can use intuitive software to select the right valve for each specific application. This shift in technology not only simplifies the process but also improves accuracy, reducing the risk of operational inefficiencies or system failures. This article delves into the benefits of using these online tools and offers practical advice for getting started.THE EVOLUTION OF VALVE SIZING AND SELECTIONBefore the advent of online tools, valve professionals relied heavily on printed tables from manufacturers. These tables provided essential information such as flow coefficient Completing control valve projects with present-day online sizing and selection tools BY AL GUNNARSON, WARREN CONTROLS, INC. THE RIGHT SIZE ATYOUR FINGERTIPS
MARCH 2025 | 27WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPT(Cv) and flow rates for specific pressure drops. However, critical factors like aerodynamic noise, flow velocity, and special flowing conditions were often missing. As a result, engineers were forced to perform numerous complex calculations, often spending up to forty-five minutes on a single valve—and that was just the beginning. Calculating the necessary details for actuators and other accessories added more time and complexity.Today, modern online sizing and selection tools eliminate the need for manual calculations, providing quick, reliable results. With just a few inputs—such as the type of fluid, temperature, and pressure—these tools can generate a comprehensive report outlining the most suitable valves for a given application. What once took weeks of labor to complete a valve project can now be completed in hours, allowing engineers to focus on other critical aspects of their projects.However, while the technology is more accessible, getting started with these tools can still be a challenge for some professionals. Many struggle with understanding the requirements needed before entering data into the tool. Knowing how to prepare is key to a smooth experience.PREPARING TO USE SIZING AND SELECTION TOOLSTo successfully use online control valve sizing tools, it’s essential to do the groundwork. Based on insights from Warren Controls, professionals should follow a structured
28 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYapproach before even opening the software. The preparation ensures they have the necessary information to input into the system and understand the valve’s operational context.Field Experience and Customer InsightsReal-world experience in the field is irreplaceable. Valve professionals need to understand the environment in which the valve will operate. This means engaging directly with plant managers, team leaders, and maintenance personnel to gain insights into application functions and interdependencies. This knowledge helps professionals anticipate potential issues and make more informed decisions during the sizing and selection process.Thorough Application UnderstandingBefore diving into the tool, professionals should clarify critical questions about the application. For example, is it a new installation or a replacement valve? If the latter, why did the previous valve fail? Knowing whether the control is for temperature, pressure, or flow also plays a crucial role in the selection. Additional factors, such as the fluid type (water, steam, or chemical), temperature, and pressure conditions, must be gathered upfront. Having this information at hand makes the online tool easier to navigate and reduces the chances of errors or the need for guesswork.Familiarity with Valve Series and TypesA critical but often overlooked aspect of using these tools is familiarity with the manufacturer’s product lines. Just like choosing the right type of vehicle—whether a sedan or a truck—professionals need to know which valve series fits their requirements. Educating oneself about the strengths and weaknesses of each valve series, as well as its specific applications, can make the selection process much more efficient.For example, some customers may prefer quarter-turn rotary valves for cost or space-saving reasons, while others might require globe control valves for more precise flow control. Understanding these preferences upfront and knowing the product specifications reduces frustration and ensures the right valve is selected the first time.Educated Assumptions and DocumentationIt’s important to recognize that you may not always have complete information at the beginning of a project. For example, pressure drop is often an unknown factor, but the sizing program will still require this information to size a value. In such cases, professionals must make educated assumptions and document them for customer review. This approach keeps the process moving forward while ensuring that all decisions can be revisited if needed.MASTERING THE TOOLUsing online valve sizing and selection tools efficiently is not a one-time effort but a continuous learning journey. Professionals need to keep themselves updated on new products, sizing methodologies, and valve technologies.At Warren Controls, this means ongoing product training—whether through webinars, factory training sessions, or real-time assistance. According to Warren’s expert team, professionals who regularly use these tools can complete a sizing and selection task in just ten minutes, generating a report that includes all the necessary data and even a quote if the feature is enabled.However, mastery of these tools requires dedication. Professionals need to immerse themselves in product specifications, familiarize themselves with the valve market, and engage in continuous self-education. Only then can they fully leverage the capabilities of these tools and provide the most accurate and efficient solutions for their customers.Despite the advantages of online sizing and selection tools, some professionals encounter problems. Many users struggle because they don’t have all the necessary information upfront, leading to guesswork and errors later in the process. Additionally, professionals may not know the full range of product options available to them, resulting in suboptimal valve selections.To avoid these pitfalls, professionals should ensure they gather all relevant data before starting the process. They should also engage with their manufacturers early on to understand which tools and product lines are best suited to their needs. Finally, they should not hesitate to seek help from manufacturer representatives when needed.A CONTINUOUS LEARNING PROCESS Online control valve sizing and selection tools are powerful resources that have revolutionized the valve selection process. However, to make the most of these tools, professionals must approach the task with thorough preparation, continuous learning, and the support of their manufacturers. By following these best practices, valve professionals can ensure accurate selections, streamlined workflows, and improved operational outcomes. Al Gunnarson is vice-president of sales and marketing for Warren Controls, Inc. Based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Warren Controls, Inc. manufactures dependable, rugged, precision control valves and accessories for product applications where reliable performance is a must. Warren Controls' fluid control products can be found in everything from chemical processing, to naval ships, and commercial buildings. For more information, visit www.warrencontrols.com.
MARCH 2025 | 29WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPT
30 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTPUMP SOLUTIONSPUMP SOLUTIONSPumping Systems for wastewater, stormwater, industrial process water, and clean water have long used all available materials in “sumps” of various depths and diameter. In many cases, various water types with “off-gassing”, pH and temperature extremes, or other factors determine what sump material is best suited to the application. In most cases, however, the sump material is determined by “preference” or what an entity “has always used”. The tragedy of this approach is that it often makes no sense when factoring in the realistic life expectancy of the material.A good example are concrete wastewater sumps operating in areas with high ambient temperatures. Hydrogen sulfide is famously corrosive, and unless the concrete is coated with special material it will be “eaten” by the hydrogen sulfide, dramatically reducing the lifespan of a concrete sump. Hydrogen sulfide corrosion ceases to be a primary concern in Fiberglass, Polymer Concrete, or HDPE sumps.There are various sump materials readily available and have varying costs, difficulties, benefits, and realistic lifespans in various configurations across water types. CONCRETE SUMPSPrecast concrete is the most common sump material used in all types of water conveyance in both the public and private sectors and for good reason. Precast concrete is common and readily available. It typically has various uplift and/or buoyancy calculations as well as a variety of other engineering “proof” that it will work in underground applications.There are also several benefits of precast concrete in underground sumps including how it is readily available. Most risers, tops, and bases are stock components. The means of mounting hardware are also readily available and understood by contractors.Precast concrete can be installed to very deep depths and has certain installation advantages in high ground water installations. It also has certain advantages in traffic rated scenarios. The material is familiar to all and perhaps lower in initial cost. The right material makes all the difference BY MARK SHELDONMATERIAL CHOICES FOR PUMPING SYSTEM SUMPSConcrete.
MARCH 2025 | 31WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTUnfortunately, the problems with concrete can be equally common and sometimes hard to justify when compared to other materials. The following are just some of the real and present problems with using concrete sumps. Good (high quality) precast concrete is hard to find. Much of it is “pitted”, porous, and cracks easily or develops microfractures over time. Interior and exterior coating is often required and must be applied onsite to protect it from leaking, water saturation, off gassing, and other water content scenarios.Precast concrete also comes in sections (barrels) which must be stacked in a specific order and configuration. Each section of the precast concrete sump must be sealed at the joint to prevent water ingress and egress.Additionally, precast concrete is heavy and difficult to align in holes over 10’ deep. At large diameters a crane is often required to set each section of the overall structure. FIBERGLASS Fiberglass is commonly used for small diameter sumps in the 3-5’ range and has been in use in underground installations for decades. There is good reason for the past and continued use of fiberglass as a sump material, and like most sump materials, it comes in a variance of high and low-quality options.Fiberglass, like concrete, is available in inside diameters (ID) ranging from 3’ to 12’ and in depths for underground installations from 4’ to well over 40’. What’s different about fiberglass is that we can’t improve its quality with coatings and/or linings. Instead, determining the quality of fiberglass is based on factors such as meeting the American Water Work standards. These standards include maintaining a 5 to 1 safety factor against general buckling and meeting AWWA-D-120 and recognition by the Underwriters Laboratories.Essentially, you pay for what you get in fiberglass. The top-quality fiberglass comes from companies who supply buried tanks for oil and gas. Buried oil and gas tanks must meet exceptional standards. Entities already making these tanks produce a much more durable and reliable product than may initially come to mind when thinking of “Fiberglass.” These companies specialize in underground sumps and tanks required for the storage • Manufacturer of the Muniflo Rotary Lobe Pump (originally manufactured by Wemco since 1985)• We also manufacture aftermarket pump parts for most models of Borger®, Vogelsang®, LobePro®, Netzsch TORNADO® , Lobeline®, Lobeflo®, and Muniflo® Pumps• Specialize in Rotary Lobe Pump Repairwww.equipump.com | www.muniflopump.com800-783-5623 | fax 800-693-5623 | info@equipump.comAre you looking for obsolete LobeFlo® (SSP/MGI) pump parts? We are the answer!Are you looking for obsolete LobeFlo® (SSP/MGI) pump parts? We are the answer!Fiberglass.
32 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTPUMP SOLUTIONSPUMP SOLUTIONSof various caustic and/or dangerous liquids in either vertical or horizontal configurations. The benefits of top-quality fiberglass include chemical stability. It’s compatible with a wide range of temperature and chemical conditions (IE hydrogen sulfide).One piece construction reduces points of failure such as concrete barrel joints. Fiberglass lends itself to more prefabrication of internal mechanical and electrical components and it is available in both single wall and double wall configurations. Difficulties with Fiberglass include the uplift. Groundwater or soil conditions may require securing vertical fiberglass sumps to a concrete base slab and/or “guy-wiring” down. This may also require specific types of backfill.Fiberglass is also difficult to modify. Post-fabrication changes to the sump (invert and discharge locations, etc.) can be time and labor intensive. During initial installation, the buoyancy of high groundwater can pose challenges and the project may require larger (diameter) top slabs in “traffic rated” applications.Lastly, it may not be suitable for extremely high water-temperature or dramatic PH applications, but this can be overcome with special-grade resin at an increased cost.HDPEHDPE can be thick and very rigid. At first glance, it has a lot of the best qualities (and more) that we find in the best fiberglass without a dramatic difference in price. HDPE is formed and “welded”. In other words, the vertical section is a large diameter pipe while the top and bottom are made of flat sheets. These pieces are positioned and “welded” in place. HDPE sumps are typically thicker than fiberglass, quite rigid, and appear compatible with a variety of conventional mechanical fasteners. The ability to field modify and weld HDPE is a “promise” that makes it look like a long-term contender to high quality fiberglass. While HDPE is relatively new in the world of underground sumps, there are a few early adopters nationwide, both public and private. The potential benefits of HDPE include field repair and modification which is generally much quicker to finish and resume operation than other materials.Additionally, HDPE is one piece construction. No barrel joints as a potential point of failure. It lends itself to more prefabrication of internal mechanical and electrical components. Also, it is not susceptible to Hydrogen Sulfide corrosion and has an extended potential lifespan compared to concrete.Some drawbacks of HDPE are that it’s more susceptible to accidental puncture than concrete. It is not recommended for high temperature applications and any repair work requires specialty tools and a trained operator to perform. A suitable heavy extrusion welder can cost quite a bit. Uplift in certain groundwater or soil conditions may require securing sumps to a concrete base slab and/or “guy-wiring” down and it may require specific types of backfill. The buoyancy of high groundwater can pose challenges during initial installation.Finally, it may require larger (diameter) top slabs in “traffic rated” applications.Stainless Steel.HDPE.
MARCH 2025 | 33WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTSTAINLESS STEELAnother type of sump material is stainless steel, particularly 316L stainless steel. 316L has a higher degree of corrosion resistance than 304, and the “L” designation makes it a more weldable alloy. Stainless sumps consist of common sheet sizes rolled and welded to form tubes which form the “riser” section. Flat sheets are cut and welded to form the top and base sections. Any additional bracing or features (such as an access hatch) can easily be welded or bolted in place.There are various benefits to using stainless steel sumps like the high corrosion resistance and compatibility with a wide range of chemicals including hydrogen sulfide. It can be cut, formed, welded, etc. into almost any size and shape needed and it can be supplied as a single structure with internal components pre-installed.The detractors to stainless steel sumps are that the price and availability of stainless steel can fluctuate dramatically especially if the material must be domestically sourced.Additionally, the sump will need proper anchoring, anti-buoyancy measures, and additional reinforcement as the well depth increases.POLYMER CONCRETEPolymer Concrete bears many functional similarities to concrete with a few notable exceptions. Where the binding agent in concrete structures is cement, Polymer Concrete uses resin to bind the sand and aggregate. The rebar reinforcing Polymer Concrete is made of FRP. According to manufacturers of Polymer Concrete, all this makes for a sump material that is incredibly stable and durable over time.Some of the advantages to using Polymer Concrete is there is no need for specialty coatings. Polymer Concrete can withstand a wide range of temperature and pH conditions. Additionally, permeability is positive as polymer concrete does not permeate with microfractures as with traditional concrete and an abrasion to the surface does not create a “weak” point in the structure susceptible to Hydrogen Sulfide corrosion or other chemical and temperature considerations (as opposed to coated concrete). It’s the same material all the way through. It is also lightweight and has a thinner wall compared to concrete but can be regarded in much the same way as traditional concrete when designing, installing, and modifying.The downsides of polymer concrete include the high initial cost. Polymer Concrete is much more expensive than other sump materials, especially in large diameters.The barrel joints are a potential point of failure like concrete. Thinner sump walls require consideration when mounting hardware. Also, there are limited manufacturing locations. Polymer Concrete is only produced in a handful of locations currently.There is an enormous number of existing underground sump and related plumbing infrastructure in the US known to be failing. We also know that a significant portion of American water and sewer budgets are being spent to repair or prolong the life of this lacking and failing underground infrastructure. Water leaking (ingress and egress) compound the cost of maintaining this infrastructure. In many cases, old, active, and existing sumps have long since failed, yet are allowed to continue operation because the cost and difficulty to repair, and/or replace is simply too high. If one was to truly evaluate the real lifetime of existing sumps based on their true structural and “leak proof” integrity we would find that many of the active, existing sumps have failed, and their true “lifetime” is (or should be) over. CONSIDER THE OVERALL NEEDSumps have never been available in more different and well-conceived materials than they are today. They are available in a wide range of depths and diameters, and each has their own true quality and lifespan. One thing is certain, most of the “easy” (gravity based) land has been built on and consequently the number of new and future sumps for both active pumping systems and manholes will increase. The negative effects of all contaminants and off-gassing and the difficulty of treating all water types will continue to grow. With these considerations, and others, the need for sumps that last, perform well, and preserve their integrity longer will always be best value.As sumps are built in increasingly unique and difficult locations, the viability of comfortable methods and familiar materials ought to be re-evaluated. New conditions will require novel thinking if we intend for our water conveyance systems to succeed in terms of lifespan, serviceability, and cost effectiveness for the entities who rely on them. Romtec Utilities provides the design, manufacturing, and delivery of stormwater, wastewater, industrial water, and clean water pumping systems. Romtec engineers the entire system according to your specifications and your preferred components and brands. Each pumping system is unique, so Romtec provides the package experience with the customization of an engineered system. For more information, visit www.romtecutilities.com.Polymer concrete.
34 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMODERN PUMPING PRODUCTSMODERN PUMPING PRODUCTSFor more information, visitWWW.GRUNDFOS.USFEATURED PRODUCTGRUNDFOSTHE SAFEST AND MOST SUSTAINABLE DOSING SOLUTION ON THE MARKET The new DDA brings next level safety and ease of use while keeping the accuracy for which it is renowned. The DDA is designed to help industries, building owners and utilities create a more sustainable future, providing steady, consistent chemical dosing for even the toughest applications. Grundfos-patented Digital Dosing continues to lead the way with many innovative technologies. This has resulted in the new DDA SMART Digital, which ensures the highest performance and accuracy for complex and demanding dosing applications. With its powerful variable-speed stepper motor and a turn-down ratio of up to 1:3000, the DDA ensures precise, smooth and continuous dosing in chemical treatment application across the full range.The new DDA makes it easier to dose, to service and to maintain. The operator can safely manage chemical dosing systems with the Grundfos GO app, while the pump’s integrated Flow Control Management feature makes sure the right amount of chemicals are dosed all the time. This prevents waste, improving resource efficiency and supporting sustainable consumption in dosing installations. DDA SMART DIGITAL DOSING PUMP
MARCH 2025 | 35WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTEVER MOTION SOLUTIONSTITANIO STEPPER DRIVESThree new drives are available with two open-loop models and one open/closed-loop version. Unlike typical stepper drives, Titanio steppers can detect stalls in open-loop control mode by monitoring the motor's back EMF. This allows system designers to take advantage of stall detection without the hassle and expense of a closed-loop system. Among other advanced features, the Titanio drives use sinusoidal current control to provide extremely smooth motor movement, with reduced audible noise, significant dampening of vibration and resonances, higher system efficiency, and increased and more consistent torque output at all speeds. For more information, www.everelettronica.com.IMPULSE PUMPSMONACO IP-130 ELECTRIC DEWATERING PUMPThe Monaco IP-130 electric driven dewatering pump build in super silent enclosure. With its robust construction and high-quality materials, this pump delivers unparalleled performance. Its small electric motor efficiently moves volumes of water. Easy to install and operate, it features intuitive controls and built-in safety features for optimal protection. The Electric driven Monaco pump is the ultimate choice for professionals in need of a durable and high-powered pump for small and long running dewatering projects. For more information, visit www.impulsebv.com.ATLAS COPCOB-AIR 185-12 PORTABLE AIR COMPRESSORThe B-Air 185-12, the world's first battery-driven mobile screw compressor, offers full-shift mobility without requiring a power connection. Together, these innovations set new standards for clean, quiet, and versatile portable air solutions. Atlas Copco launched its first electric mobile E-Air range six years ago, a new generation of electric-driven portable air compressors, offering no local emissions, low noise levels, and compatibility with renewable energy sources. For more information, visit www.atlascopco.com.WAGO 2587 BASE POWER SUPPLY SERIES WAGO's new 2587 Base Power Supply Series offers an excellent balance between price and performance. Adding to their growing list of efficient, high-performance power supplies, the 2587 Series comes equipped with a basic approvals package, a wide operating temperature range, and patented (front entry) Push-In Cage Clamp connection technology. With a nominal 1-phase 100...240 VAC inputs as well as 24 VDC - 5, 10, and 20 A outputs, this power supply series is a great entry level product for many OEM applications. For more information, visit www.wago.com.
36 | MARCH 2025 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTEFFICIENCY POINTEFFICIENCY POINTAs the global energy landscape shifts towards sustainability, the demand for a skilled workforce in renewable energy continues to climb. This transformation reflects an urgent need not only for clean energy solutions but also for a workforce equipped with the necessary skills to innovate, implement, and maintain these new technologies. Below, Kevin Anderson, CEO and president, of Power House Resources, shares insights from his three decades of experience in the field.MPT: What are some keys to understanding the renewable energy workforce?KEVIN ANDERSON: The renewable energy sector encompasses various industries including solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy. Each of these fields requires specialized skills and expertise. It’s essential to recognize the expanding job market within these sectors. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), renewable jobs reached twelve million globally in 2020, a figure expected to increase in the coming years.In the United States alone, the solar and wind sectors have created hundreds of thousands of jobs, with further growth projected. For instance, jobs in the solar industry have increased nearly 167 percent from 2010 to 2020, highlighting the rapid expansion of this sector. MPT: What are some of the skills needed in this sector?KEVIN ANDERSON: To build a competent workforce in renewable energy, focusing on specific skill sets is vital. Key skills include, first, technical skills. Proficiency in technologies used in renewable energy systems such as solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage is crucial. This includes understanding the mechanics, electrical systems, and software associated with these technologies.Secondly, project management: Professionals in renewable energy must be able to lead projects, coordinate with various stakeholders, and manage timelines effectively. Also, regulatory knowledge; that is, understanding local, state, and federal regulations related to renewable energy deployment can help smooth the transition into the sector for new hires. And, lastly, interpersonal skills—the ability to collaborate with diverse teams, communicate effectively, and negotiate contracts is essential as the industry often includes multiple stakeholders.MPT: How important is building partnerships with educational institutions?KEVIN ANDERSON: Training programs and educational institutions have a responsibility to integrate these skills into their curriculums, ensuring graduates are job-ready and equipped to contribute to the industry's growth. Collaboration between industry and educational institutions is critical for developing a skilled workforce. Companies can partner with local colleges and universities to create internship programs. Businesses can establish internship opportunities that allow students to gain experience while still in school. Also, developing curriculum is important. By offering input on necessary skills and technologies, businesses can influence program development to closely match industry needs. Additionally, professionals from the industry can be invited to give guest lectures and share hands-on experiences, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Finally, by working with educational institutions on job placement programs, businesses can help ensure that graduates are employed in roles that align with their skill sets.Through these partnerships, both students and employers will benefit, promoting a robust talent pipeline for the renewable energy sector. Kevin Anderson on how to build a skilled workforce in renewable energyTOMORROW’S SKILLS IN TODAY’S WORKFORCE The Power House Resources team of experts has years of experience in the energy industry, and we are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of service and support. We work closely with our clients to understand their unique energy needs and develop customized solutions that are tailored to their specific requirements. For more information, visit www.scpowerhouse.com.