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Modern Pumping Today October 2024

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WWW.MPTMAG.COMANALYTICS FOR ANALYTICS FOR WATER TREATMENTWATER TREATMENTTHE NUMBERS DON’T LIETHE NUMBERS DON’T LIESTREAMLINE PLC STREAMLINE PLC PROGRAMMINGPROGRAMMINGTHE QUICK PATH TO BOOST EFFICIENCYTHE QUICK PATH TO BOOST EFFICIENCYVALVE STATION VALVE STATION PLANNING 101PLANNING 101HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOWHERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOWOCTOBER 2024

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visit us at pentair.com

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WWW.MPTMAG.COMANALYTICS FOR ANALYTICS FOR WATER TREATMENTWATER TREATMENTTHE NUMBERS DON’T LIETHE NUMBERS DON’T LIESTREAMLINE PLC STREAMLINE PLC PROGRAMMINGPROGRAMMINGTHE QUICK PATH TO BOOST EFFICIENCYTHE QUICK PATH TO BOOST EFFICIENCYVALVE STATION VALVE STATION PLANNING 101PLANNING 101HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOWHERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOWOCTOBER 2024

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OCTOBER 2024OCTOBER 2024A NOTE ON THIS ISSUE:Welcome to the new MPT for October! Kicking off our Case Studies section, Copia Automation’s Gerry Abbey shares a success story of how one pump innovator drove business by streamlining PLC programming (pg. 14). Implementing a new system can often be a daunting task, but with the right partner, success can be assured.In our Water & Wastewater Focus, Kevin Koshko of Aquatic Informatics illustrates how his company is harnessing data analytics for water treatment (pg. 16). It can be hard for small utilities to keep up with new technology, but Aquatic Informatics’ Rio data management software lets operators put away their spreadsheets and nd answers fast.Lastly, in our Sealing Solutions section, long-time contributor Marc Gimson calls class into session for the rst part in his series on “Valve Station Planning 101” (pg. 32). The importance and ubiquity of control valves underscore their signicance in the functionality and reliability of water distribution infrastructures, so you’ll want to take notes on what he has to say. 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 specically 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

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SUBSCRIPTIONSFor all changes, go to:WWW.MPTMAG.COMClick the SUBSCRIPTIONS button in the main menu

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CONTENTSOCTOBER 2024OCTOBER 20241032142420INDUSTRY NEWS What's happening in the industry ..................................... 6 CASE STUDIES German technology for safe drinking water treatment in Africa ................................................................ 10 Memdos Smart dosing pump and B3 drum pump showcase their benets Breaking through the bottleneck ................................... 14 How one pump innovator drove business by streamlining PLC programming WATER & WASTEWATER FOCUS Harnessing data analytics for water treatment ................................................................ 16 Rio streamlines management of the city of Kilgore’s municipal water needsMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITY Banking electronic chips for the next boom (or bust) ............................................................... 20 Industry expert offers manufacturers key strategies to "bank" supply Milking the market sustainably ....................................... 24 Environmental benets and best practices in the food processing market MOTOR SOLUTIONS Maximizing power plant exibility ................................. 28 How to support producer protability during the energy transition: Part 2 of 3 SEALING SOLUTIONS Valve station planning 101 .................................................. 32 From sizing to customization to layout, here’s what you need to know: Part 1 of 2MODERN PUMPING PRODUCTS Featured Product: NETZSCH Tornado T1 Generation F Rotary Lobe Pump ............................................................ 34EFFICIENCY POINT It’s smart to use your coconut ......................................... 36 Jacobi Carbons goes green with new coconut shell-based AddSorb OX-Series

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6 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTINDUSTRY NEWSINDUSTRY NEWSBRITISH STEELMAKER BECOMES N’GENIUS ALLOYS MANUFACTURERA British steel foundry has become the first company in the world to manufacture castings using an innovative new series of high strength austenitic stainless steels. Furniss & White, which specializes in high integrity stainless steel castings, fabrications, and precision machining, signed a long-term agreement to produce its castings using high-performance alloys from the N’Genius Series under license.The Sheffield-based firm has successfully completed a range of manufacturing procedure qualification tests at its facilities in various grades from the N’Genius Series and will be providing castings for engineering products made using these advanced materials to its customers. The N’Genius Series, which is patent protected in thirty countries, represents the total reinvention of conventional austenitic stainless steels, commonly known as the 300 Series. Dr. Ces Roscoe, CEO of N’Genius Materials Technology and inventor of the N’Genius Series, says, “Furniss & White is a company that shares our own passion and drive for innovation and we are absolutely delighted to be collaborating with them on what is destined to be an industry changing technology.”“We expect these game-changing N’Genius materials will be extremely popular with our existing customers,” adds Sam Scholes, managing director at Furniss & White.ABB PIONEERS WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM IN ARKANSAS ABB is equipping the next generation of professionals for advanced technology manufacturing by partnering with Arkansas Tech University’s Ozark campus to launch a career-readiness program. This collaborative workforce development initiative will offer a curriculum focused on automation technology, air conditioning and refrigeration.ABB’s Ozark motor manufacturing facility, the region’s third-largest employer with over 250 employees, is a leading economic driver in the community. Each week, the facility produces 3,000 Baldor-Reliance industrial electric motors. These motors power fans, pumps, blowers and other systems ensure the safe and efficient flow of air, liquid and data.“This program is an effective workforce development initiative that has the potential to support the entire region,” says Greg Dawson, human resources business partner at ABB’s Ozark plant. “Instead of bringing in a temp and starting him or her from scratch, we are pre-training our candidates to succeed in our manufacturing operations.”ABB intends to replicate this model in other universities near its manufacturing facilities. This program exemplifies ABB’s ongoing commitment to nurturing future professionals in its communities. In 2023, ABB invested $1 million to create a workforce training program.

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8 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTINDUSTRY NEWSINDUSTRY NEWSTATE SELECTS SITE FOR NEW MANUFACTURING FACILITYTate’s new manufacturing facility is set to be established in Pocahontas, Arkansas, bringing significant investment and job creation to the area. The project represents a significant investment and is expected to create 148 new jobs over the next five years."Tate is excited to expand our operations with a new production site in Pocahontas, Arkansas," says Daniel Kennedy, global president of cloud solutions and innovation. "This move strengthens our commitment to delivering innovative solutions and supports our long-term growth. We are grateful for the strong local support as we begin this new chapter."The new manufacturing facility will focus on fabricating steel frames for data centers, further strengthening the local economy."Tate is a global leader in its industry, and we're proud that they selected Pocahontas to grow their business," adds Clint O'Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. "With an experienced workforce, a favorable business environment, and strong infrastructure, rural communities like Pocahontas offer an ideal home for thriving companies. Congratulations to the community of Pocahontas on a great economic development win."The 420,000-square-foot facility is expected to be operational in 2025.COLUMBUS MCKINNON INTRODUCES NEW MANUAL HOISTS Columbus McKinnon Corporation announces two new manual hoists that are made in America with domestic and imported components. New Coffing LSB-NC lever hoists and LHH-NC hand chain hoists feature hooks and chain made at the company’s manufacturing facilities in Chattanooga and Lexington, Tennessee, and they are assembled in the company’s Wadesboro facility located in North Carolina. “The LSB-NC and LHH-NC are designed to provide the durability and reliability customers have come to expect,” says Andre Schon, senior global product manager. “We’re excited to bring these manual hoists to the market, helping to ensure safe and efficient lifting in applications for construction, maintenance, general industry, and more.” The LSB-NC is available in capacities of up to 6 tons. Standard lifts up to 20 feet are available, and additional lifts are available upon request. The hoist also features a stamped steel housing with a powder-coated finish for corrosion protection and long life. Shipyard hooks are available upon request. The LHH-NC is available in capacities of up to 5 tons. Standard lifts up to 20 feet are available, and additional lifts are available upon request.

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10 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTCASE STUDIESCASE STUDIESGERMAN TECHNOLOGY FOR SAFE DRINKING WATER TREATMENT IN AFRICA Memdos Smart dosing pump and B3 drum pump showcase their benets BY MARKUS S. SEITENBERG, LUTZ-JESCO

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OCTOBER 2024 | 11WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTA refreshing sip of cold water at the turn of a tap: nothing but a dream for many. “2.2 billion people worldwide currently have no access to clean and safe drinking water. Around half a billion of them live in Africa. These people live under the constant danger or catching life-threatening diseases, which in the worst case can develop into epidemics,” says Heinz Lutz, CEO of Lutz Holding. “In view of these alarming figures, it is clear that the international community must act to provide universal access to clean drinking water.” Seeking to play its part, Lutz-Jesco has developed new technologies that support efficient water treatment, and which were on display at the Water Africa 2024 trade fair. MEMDOS SMART:A DOSING PUMP WITH INTUITIVE OPERATION Exhibiting at this year’s Water Africa trade fair, Lutz-Jesco showcased its Memdos Smart, a stepper motor dosing pump that helps to improve water quality in small wastewater treatment plants and waterworks. The pump performs a number of functions, including the introduction of flocculants into the water. These agents serve to combine impurities and suspended matter into larger particles which are easier to separate. “Precise dosing is crucial for high quality water treatment,” says Steffen Roth, head of development at Lutz-Jesco GmbH. “To this end, we have fitted the Memdos Smart with a microprocessor-controlled stepper motor.” Its special feature: unlike standard motors, the motor of the diaphragm pump can be run asynchronously. It works at higher speed during priming so that it draws in the liquid more quickly with stronger negative pressure, whilst working at a lower speed during controlled and even discharge. “Thanks to the stepper motor, we are able to achieve an almost constant supply stream, which enables gentle, low-pulsation and precise dosing of chemicals for water treatment in small wastewater treatment plants and waterworks.”

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12 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTCASE STUDIESCASE STUDIESThe Memdos Smart is available in eight performance levels—with supply streams between 0.5 and 50 gallons per hour.And is also intuitive to operate. Roth says, “The combination of a full-colour touch display with operation similar to a smartphone sets us apart from other market players. Users can understand and perform all functions immediately without the need for operating instructions. This makes control of the pumps significantly quicker and less prone to malfunctions.”BATTERY-POWERED FOR AREAS WITH A POOR INFRASTRUCTUREThe B3 Battery is a new battery-powered drum pump that combines mobility and energy independence for water and wastewater management in remote areas with poor infrastructure. Fitted with a brushless 320-watt DC motor, it offers a delivery capacity of up to 50 gallons per minute and a delivery head of 39 feet of water column. "With the new B3 Battery, we have succeeded for the first time in making the performance of a battery-operated drum pump comparable to that of cable-connected models," says Michael Raabe, head of sales at Lutz Jesco GmbH. One battery charge is enough to empty a 50-gallon drum fourteen times in around fifteen minutes. At a lower speed, a 250-plus gallon IBC container can be pumped out 5.8 times in fifty-one minutes. The pumping station is available in different versions to convey as many chemicals as possible for water treatment, including a version made of polypropylene (PP) for sodium hydroxide and of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) for chloric acid. Established in 1954, the internationally active family business Lutz has advanced to become synonymous for professional fluid management. Today, the Lutz group of companies includes a number of top-performing, medium-sized companies located in Germany and abroad, which operate in the broad field of pump technology, water treatment and disinfection. The Lutz Group has thirteen branch offices and representatives in over eighty countries. For more information, visit www.lutzjescoamerica.com.

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14 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTCASE STUDIESCASE STUDIESBREAKING THROUGH THE BOTTLENECK How one pump innovator drove business by streamlining PLC programming BY GERRY ABBEY, COPIA AUTOMATIONSelling its progressive cavity (PC) pumps, pump systems, and controls, Seepex aims to find solutions that help their customers optimize their system, boost their productivity, and lower their operating costs, particularly by developing previously unheard-of solutions. With a small, dedicated team of PLC programmers, the company provides custom code that keeps their PC pumps flowing. But with the many PLCs available in the market, Seepex soon found itself at a bottleneck. Their established methods had them developing in closed, proprietary vendor systems that limited their ability to collaborate and innovate quickly."Customers want us to be able to program PLCs on multiple platforms," says Seepex Head of Electrical Engineering Dr. Sebastian Rickers. "This limitation was more than just an inconvenience—it was costing us business."THE QUEST FOR A SOLUTIONDetermined to overcome this hurdle, Seepex harnessed their relationship with the University of Applied Sciences of Cologne. Their mission was to establish a single source of truth for the development and oversight of code for multiple PLC vendors. The solution would need to allow the development team to share code easily, work asynchronously, and provide a robust backup and recovery plan. It was during this search that they learned about the Copia Industrial DevOps Platform."When we heard about Copia, we realized they were the only ones who had a solution for a multi-vendor code repository," Dr. Rickers says, "This was the solution we needed and had been trying to create."A SMOOTH TRANSITIONImplementing a new system can often be a daunting task but the transition was smooth as the team was familiar with Git-based systems. "The implementation was quite easy," says Kai Seeberg-Kessner, electrical engineer and PLC programmer at Seepex. "We just had to set up the different repositories for each vendor, which only took a few hours of work."TRANSFORMING WORKFLOWSThe impact on Seepex's operations was immediate and far-reaching—the company no longer had to work on decentralized code setups and manual synchronization between team members. "We used to have thousands of copies of PLC files," says Seeberg-Kessner. "With the new system, we have eliminated our duplicate code and rely on a single source of truth."This centralization tidied up their codebase and increased their ability to collaborate. Team members can now work on the same code

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OCTOBER 2024 | 15WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTsimultaneously, regardless of their location. Additionally, the service team gained direct access to the latest versions of the code, which freed developers from handling support requests."We can now break up the lifecycle management of our systems," says Dr. Rickers. "We're no longer forced to have the same person responsible for a project from cradle to grave. We have much greater flexibility and scalability."EXPANDING HORIZONSThe most significant impact, however, was on Seepex's business capabilities. With their newfound ability to work across multiple platforms, they could take on projects they previously had to turn down."We have now sold significantly more units that we would not have been able to sell if we hadn't made this change," says Dr. Rickers. "Before 2017, we were selling a handful of units annually. Then we introduced our platform independent technology (PIT) concept in 2017 and Copia not long after. The combination of these changes has increased our output 3x on average over the last few years, with 2023 being our best year yet and 2024 continuing on that progress."But it's not just about the numbers. The quality of work life for the team has improved dramatically. For example, Seeberg-Kessner, who previously had to juggle development and service requests, can now focus on his core responsibilities. "I'm more available for commissioning and PLC programming, and I can pass on service responsibilities to other staff knowing they have all the documentation they need," adds Seeberg-Kessner.LOOKING TO THE FUTUREAs Seepex continues to grow and evolve, their capacity to render programming changes has had a very positive impact on the team, making code reviews more efficient and effective. Their strategic shift to a multi-vendor PLC programming solution not only revolutionized their workflow but also significantly boosted their business performance. They overcame critical operational challenges, allowing them to expand their project capabilities, enhance team collaboration, and triple their unit sales. This transformation has not only positioned Seepex as an industry leader but has also improved the work-life balance of their team, setting the stage for continued success and innovation in the years to come. Copia Automation began as a vision to transform the industrial landscape through advanced technology. Over the years, we've grown from a passionate start-up to a global leader in operational technology solutions. Our journey is marked by innovation, a deep understanding of industrial needs, and a firm commitment to empowering our customers. For more information, visit www.copia.io.

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16 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTWATER & WASTEWATER FOCUSWATER & WASTEWATER FOCUSHARNESSING DATA ANALYTICS FOR WATER TREATMENTRio streamlines management of the city of Kilgore’s municipal water needs BY KEVIN KOSHKO, AQUATIC INFORMATICSAerial view of the city of Kilgore’s water treatment plant.

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OCTOBER 2024 | 17WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTKilgore, Texas, delivers clean water to around 14,000 residents via an extensive network spanning 160 miles. Five operators manage the city’s water, and a big part of their job is collecting data such as flow, pressure, chemical usage, and disinfection residuals. The city has a 3.5 million gallons per day surface water treatment plant, a 3.5 million gallons per day groundwater treatment plant, and seven groundwater wells. To manage the water flow between these facilities there is a raw water pump station, two water pressure plants, and over four million gallons in storage facilities. Clay Evers is the director of public works for the city of Kilgore and manages the operational data for the water treatment plant. “We have multiple filing cabinets of daily data sheets completed by our operators. I enter most of the production data into Excel when I have time or need to do a report or troubleshoot a problem”, says Evers. “We do capture some data in our work order management system, but it is in a SQL database, so you have to mine the data, which is essentially cutting and pasting into a spreadsheet to create graph trend lines. It’s challenging and requires a certain level of sophistication, and it is labor intensive.”It can be hard for small utilities to keep up with new technology. “Our budgets are small, and our personnel are primarily focussed on operations, and in most cases, they have been with us for quite some time. To incorporate technology means changing the way things have been done for years and often decades. Crossing the technology chasm is not always easy, it takes training and users have to buy in that the end result is more meaningful than the status quo. This takes time and proof,” adds Evers.THE NECESSITY OF ROBUST DATA MANAGEMENT Late last year the city had a nitrification event and was unable to keep acceptable chlorine residuals in the distribution system. Evers started entering data into Excel to look at trend lines and see when this had started and if he could determine where and why this happened. “By graphing out the data in Excel, I could see the trend started three months prior. This was a real eye-opener to the fact that we really need to be able to analyze our data every day, and we needed a program that makes it really easy for all our operators to use and see what is happening and flag potential issues as soon as they happen,” says Evers.This event led to a free chlorine conversion which involves removing ammonia (needed to form chloramine) from the treatment process and disinfecting the water with Clay Evers working in the Rio dashboard.Operator entering data on a mobile device.

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18 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTWATER & WASTEWATER FOCUSWATER & WASTEWATER FOCUSonly chlorine. This was followed by flushing a lot of water. Evers and his team also needed time to diagnose the problem that needed to be rectified. These kinds of events are costly and preventable with a modern data management program like Rio, a software program for regulatory compliance and operational data management.“At around the same time as this event, I was scouring the internet to see what other small treatment plants were doing. I got an email from Aquatic Informatics, as we use Hach instruments to collect field data. The opening line was, ‘Are you tired of doing spreadsheets?’ I most certainly was, and I booked a demo!”Prior to Rio, if Evers wanted to know how much water the city produced in a day, someone had to find paper files and make the calculation by subtracting the day's flow meter reading from the previous day's flow meter reading. There are seven wells, so it had to be done seven times. “The daily water production is a number that we all should know but it was labor intensive to determine. Using Rio, we now have this information at our fingertips—it’s fully automated. Furthermore, with one click we can graphically see the entire month, and soon the year. This will help us to identify anomalies, predict how much water we need, and help with conservation efforts,” says Evers.OPTIMIZING REPORTING THROUGH SCADA INTEGRATIONRio is also interfacing with the city’s SCADA databases. “The software does the math on all data collected by SCADA, including filter turbidity and chlorine residuals, and gives the minimums, maximums, and averages which I also need for monthly reporting. I can compare SCADA data with operator’s entries and catch errors much more easily,” says Evers. A couple of operators are now entering data through the Rio mobile app, while others prefer using a desktop to enter the data. The mobile app can run off any smartphone or touchscreen tablet, which is often more appealing to the new generation of workers who grew up with these devices.Before implementing Rio, monthly operating reports (MORs) took several hours for operators to complete, as it was a manual process of finding the right data and entering it. Evers worked with Implementation Specialist, Rebecca Henzi at Aquatic Informatics to build out a template in Rio, that auto-fills 90 percent of the information required in the MOR. The origin of most of this data, such as flow, residuals, and turbidity, comes into the program from SCADA. Once a variable is entered into Rio it automatically calculates and populates data into the MOR, dashboards, trend lines, and any other reporting templates that the city chooses.ENHANCING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY In a couple of clicks Evers can now graph flow or chemical usage, or any other measured parameters to ensure Entering laboratory data at the surface water treatment plant replacing typical bench sheets.

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OCTOBER 2024 | 19WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPToperations are running smoothly or quickly identify anomalies. In one example the city had an unseen leak in a chemical line, which was clear to spot on a graph in Rio as it showed two simultaneous days of usage at 75 pounds, but typically the treatment plant uses 150 pounds. Evers says, “This kind of data was never put into a spreadsheet, so having this visibility and all the calculations to give us the numbers we need for analysis, and visually see it on a chart, means it’s hard to miss and we can quickly address issues.”Accumulating data and having it all in one accessible program, increases the value of the data over time, not only for predicting future outcomes, but in instances where the plant needs upgrading. Having the data at your fingertips is invaluable when a consulting engineer asks for five years’ worth of operating data to begin designing plant improvements. Good data ensures the right sizing.With over two decades of experience in the municipal water sector, Evers is dedicated to enhancing processes. He recognizes the role of technology in eliminating unnecessary steps and reducing manual work, which allows him to focus on forward-thinking strategies. The ability to swiftly retrieve past operational data is instrumental in streamlining maintenance schedules and financial planning for the updating or replacement of equipment.“If you have the right tools built by people from the industry you can make better decisions. What I like about Rio is it’s easy to implement and well-priced, it’s already saving us time and as we get into using more of the functionality, I can see our capabilities expanding which is important for a small utility like ours. We have the same requirements as the bigger utilities, but we have fewer resources to achieve the same result—safe drinking water,” concludes Evers. Kevin Koshko is the product manager for water treatment data management at Aquatic Informatics. He brings over twenty-four years of experience helping municipalities and water professionals solve some of their biggest challenges. Koshko has spent the last two decades as a software developer, architect, and product manager as well as a licensed water distribution and wastewater treatment operator. Aquatic Informatics provide ongoing support and training for newly released features through regular software updates, ensuring that utilities get the most out of their data with the constant evolution of technology. For more information, visit www.aquaticinformatics.com.Mercerview pressure plant

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20 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYIndustry expert offers manufacturers key strategies to "bank" supply BY DEL WILLIAMSToday, the parallels between the electronic chips that power just about every type of device today and the global oil market are undeniable, with many news outlets—including the Wall Street Journal, proclaiming in headlines that "Chips Are the New Oil."Just as with oil, when demand for electronic chips outstrips supply, prices rise, impacting consumers and manufacturers alike. Oil markets are known for their volatility, influenced by factors such as geopolitical tensions, shortages, and natural disasters. Similarly, the supply of computer chips can be impacted by factors like trade disputes, geopolitical tensions, and disruptions in manufacturing processes. Fluctuations in chip prices can ripple through the economy, affecting the cost of electronics, vehicles, and other high-tech goods.Now, recent shortages during the pandemic and fears of China's ambitions to dominate the industry are spurring fears of future shortages. On the brighter side, some experts are suggesting we are on the precipice of the next tech boom, driven by artificial intelligence, mobile internet, cloud, and the Internet of Things (IoT).Either scenario, boom or bust, raises the specter of potential future shortages or hard to get parts, which has some OEMs and Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) working to "bank" a supply of critical chips in preparation for whatever might come."Many companies—particularly those that build critical equipment like medical, military, industrial controls, and automotive—are now considering how they can protect themselves from future vulnerability. They experienced serious chip shortages and want to ensure a reliable, ready supply at a reasonable price without tying up capital," says Mike Thomas, president at Classic Components, a premier independent stocking distributor of electronic components based in Torrance, California.A STRATEGIC "CHIP BANK"Today, many electronics OEMs are receptive to the idea of access to a vetted supply of quality chips readily available to them. However, few want to commit capital for chips they may not need for years, particularly if owned by equity or publicly traded firms, according to Thomas.In response to the market need, premier independent distributors like Classic Components hold sufficient supplies of quality chips, acting as de facto "chip banks" for companies requiring the service. Independent distributors play a critical role when franchised or authorized distributors are not able to supply the required parts by leveraging their extensive expertise to find alternate sources for Classic Components offers solutions to electronics shortages by securing and storing chips without upfront payments, providing price protection amidst volatile markets. BANKING ELECTRONIC CHIPS FOR THE NEXT BOOM (OR BUST)

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OCTOBER 2024 | 21WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTchips through regional authorized or franchised distribution, manufacturer direct, or surplus/excess inventories.To ensure there are no delays when the chips are needed, the independent distributor can be proactive about securing the required inventory without asking for money up front."We invest our own capital to secure the chips and hold them in inventory for the customer until required, however long that takes. We keep a certain amount in buffer stock, ship it when needed, and then get paid. In doing so, manufacturers can get the chips they need, when they need it," explains Thomas.Independent distributors like Classic Components can lock in prices and delivery dates using its vast network of supply chains and partners for many months at a time. The chips are placed in long-term bond or long-term schedule contracts with applicable service or storage fees. The inventory can be shipped to authorized partners, contract manufacturers, sister companies, and subsidiaries on demand.This is a unique offering within the independent channel that only the largest, most financially stable distributors are willing or able to offer. Classic Components has the benefit of being in business for more than forty years. The company can usually deliver parts in two to three weeks that the OEM or authorized distributors may not have access to for fifty-two weeks or longer.Classic Components will also stock chips that OEMs acquire through traditional distribution, franchise distribution, or authorized distribution channels. Based on customer preferences, the independent distributor can hold all, or some, of the stock and distribute it where needed based on long-term production schedules."Based on annual projections and forecasts, we can keep a certain amount of inventory on hand and a certain amount of inventory on order, so capital exposure is minimized," says Thomas.Price protection is also a concern for OEMs. In addition to guaranteeing chip availability, electronics manufacturers may seek to shield themselves from escalating prices caused by the scarcity of components and commodities, which can unpredictably surge in global markets. "Many Chinese semiconductor firms have told customers they are raising prices due to rising costs of precious metals, such as gold and copper," according to the article, "Chinese semiconductor firms raising prices on soaring precious metal costs" by DigiTimes Asia."Manufacturers may want to place a year's worth of electronic chips on order now," explains Thomas. "If the price rises and it costs 20 percent for the same chips six months later, they already have stock for the rest of the year that is price protected," says Thomas, adding that even the largest franchised or authorized distributors are unlikely to hold more than a few months of inventory at fixed prices.Thomas says this speaks to the core competencies of an independent distributor. Classic Components, for example, procures material in all the local markets where they do business and has offices all over the world so is not bound by regional price constraints. With a comprehensive global network, the independent distributor can make purchases in local markets that currently offer the lowest prices and pass the savings to their customers."Because we are a global, independent distributor with supply chain opportunities in various regions, we can take advantage of regional pricing. Certain parts are cheaper in Taiwan than they are in Brazil, for example."Besides its 60,000 square foot facility in Torrance, California, Classic Components has established twelve regional offices in strategic locations throughout the world to support its global distribution business. The company has nearly 200 employees who specialize in various aspects of the business including supply chain, quality, technology, and logistics."By using regional quality centers and logistic hubs, we have the flexibility to purchase components from any country, in any currency, and then ship them to anywhere they are needed," adds Thomas.To ensure the authenticity and quality of each part, the independent distributor offers a rigorous inspection process of each component received along with timely supply chain management. Classic Components, for example, utilizes a quality management system (QMS) and holds certifications such as AS6081, a requirement for distributors serving the aviation, space, and defense industry.FINANCIAL SERVICESLike a bank, a premier independent distributor can offer a variety of financing options that can facilitate securing the required chips. One example is a "buy and sell back" program for companies with excess inventory."We can purchase your excess inventory, store it and then sell it to your authorized EMS partners as needed over time," says Thomas.According to Thomas, many manufacturers are sitting on excess inventory due to stockpiling parts and ordering from multiple sources to ensure delivery. If it is true dead stock, an independent distributor can help liquidate the electronic components while maximizing OEMs in critical sectors like medical and automotive, are considering strategic “chip banks” to ensure a reliable supply without tying up capital.

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22 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYyour recovery and get them off the books through various types of arrangements.The company has provided this type of service since 1985, which can be initiated with a simple email list of surplus items along with the original price paid. Classic Components then searches its extensive database to see if any other customers use those parts and can broker a deal between the parties."We have a global customer base and lots of information about the materials they use," says Thomas. "So, if a manufacturer has excess inventory, we can often find an opportunity to sell it to one of our other customers."Classic Components can also list and sell surplus inventory on consignment—with or without taking physical possession of the inventory."Essentially, after coming to a consignment agreement, the list of items is uploaded to our website. We offer complete transparency throughout the consignment process. As we receive inquiries, we share the information so you can decide whether to sell [your surplus] at the offered rate," says Thomas.Classic Components may even opt to purchase the inventory outright to resell it later. "We buy excess inventory every day and can make purchases on a line-item basis," he says.The distributor also offers transition services, which can benefit OEMs holding electronic chips in inventory that will be shipped to third parties such as an EMS that will do the actual manufacturing. In this case, an independent distributor can purchase, warehouse, and distribute the chips and later sell the inventory to the third-party—much like a third-party logistics (3PL) operation.CAUTIONING AGAINST A FALSE SENSE OF SECURITYToday, the memory of pandemic related chip shortages and sky-high pricing is beginning to fade. Chip manufacturers successfully ramped up their manufacturing capabilities and eventually caught up on orders. Now that the supply has stabilized, many OEMs and EMS may have a false sense of security."Manufacturers were often forced to wait 52 to 80 weeks for chips when the economy softened," says Thomas. "The parts finally became available and now there is a good supply. However, as soon as demand heats up for any reason, they will face the same constraints. For some of these parts, the lead time is still fifty-two to sixty weeks. But nobody's that concerned because the demand isn't there yet."Any number of destabilizing events could tip the global chip supply into a severe shortage, whether a future pandemic, global warming related natural disaster, or political tension boiling over into conflict. The most destabilizing event directly affecting the global chip supply, of course, would be any serious dispute between Taiwan and China.Some are even predicting a tech boom in the next decades."With chip demand set to rise over the coming decade, the global semiconductor industry is poised to become a trillion-dollar industry by 2030," according to the mckinsey.com article What's driving the semiconductor market. About 70 percent of growth is predicted to be driven by the automotive (particularly electric vehicles), data storage, and wireless industries.Ideally, OEMs would have access to a strategic reserve of the chips they require that could protect them from unexpected shocks in the market like the U.S.'s Strategic Petroleum Reserve."The world learned over the period of time through covid just how dependent the world is on chips," says Thomas. "It really is a lot like oil. But I would argue OEMs are even more vulnerable to a disruption in the electronic chip supply chain because domestic manufacturers still rely predominantly on the global supply."As chip demand rises to supply myriad technologies in the latest tech boom, OEMs that work with independent distributors to secure low-cost, quality inventory over the long term will weather the inevitable, unexpected disruptions far better than competitors. Del Williams is a technical writer based in Torrance, California. Classic Components, an independent distributor based in Torrance, California. Classic offers unrivaled flexibility and reliable material management solutions to many of the world’s largest engineering companies and electronics manufacturers. Classic continues to set the industry standard through our tireless commitment to customer service, high quality standards, and industry-leading counterfeit detection methods. For more information, call 310.539.5500, email info@class-ic.com, or visit www.class-ic.com.The electronic chip market is susceptible to price fluctuations due to geopolitical tensions, shortages, and natural disasters.

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MOTOR TEMPERATURE SENSORSSTOCKING DISTRIBUTOR OF SENSORS, HEATERS AND CONTROLSwww.RewindSensors.com | 1.800.794.5883IN STOCK AND READY FOR SHIPMENT!STICKSRIBBONSTHERMISTORSTHERMOSTATSASSEMBLIESPROBESEMBEDMENT

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24 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYEnvironmental benets and best practices in the food processing market BY ERIC GARR, FORTRESS TECHNOLOGYMilk is one of the most extensively produced and valuable agricultural commodities worldwide.Cost savings, versatility, and sustainability are the driving force behind the growing popularity for milk powder.MILKING THE MARKET SUSTAINABLY

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OCTOBER 2024 | 25WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTThe United States is the third biggest contributor to food waste, throwing away almost one-third of the food it produces. According to Earth.org, 5.9 million glasses of milk, or nearly 20 percent of the total amount produced, is poured down the sink. This makes fresh milk the second most wasted food product in the United States. One of the most common reasons for America’s food waste habits can be attributed to people misunderstanding expiration date labels. However, consumers are not the only ones responsible for this unsustainable practice, with about 61 percent of all food waste occurring at commercial level, comprising retailers, manufacturers and farmers. FOOD WASTE AND MILK LAKESMilk oversupply often means that dairy farmers dispose of milk before it’s even delivered to processors. Though this seems unnecessary and wasteful, it is a complex issue. Cows need to be milked multiple times a day. Simultaneously, defined quotas in the United States and Canada set how much milk a farmer can produce, sell, or distribute. To meet these quotas, dairy farmers will often exceed their production targets. If storage is limited, that’s when waste occurs.The nation’s largest dairy cooperative, Dairy Farmers of America, estimates that 3.7 million gallons of milk is dumped by U.S. farmers daily, enough to fill six Olympic-sized swimming pools! In Canada, exceeding the province-defined, government-sanctioned quotas results in over 300 million liters of excess milk being dumped annually.When production continues to outstrip demand, it leads to a surplus of perishable agricultural goods that contribute significantly to our global food waste issue. It is clear that today’s industrial agricultural and food production methods are severely damaging the environment and are not sustainable the growing global population. THE EXCESS MILK DILEMMARegardless of demand, dairy cows require daily milking. Intervention stockpiling, a concept introduced in the late 1970s, is used by dairy farmers in many economies, including the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. Europe halted the use of quotas over a decade ago. Canada, for example, currently holds an 85,000-kilogram strategic butter reserve. Now, whole milk powder and skimmed milk powder, along with other dairy by-product commodities, are the export frontrunners. In places like India and Kenya, this process is already being used to mop up excess milk and stabilize prices during glut or deficit. Historically, it has been these regions, who have limited access to fresh milk, that are the main source of milk powder market growth. However, with an escalating demand in pre-prepared foods, baby foods, and infant formula, as well as new vitamin-fortified milk powders entering the market for direct use in beverages, yogurts, coffee, and tea whitener, milk powders have seen a significant rise in popularity worldwide. The global market outlook is strong, with milk powder valued at $34.6 billion in 2023 and predicted to grow annually by 5.6 percent, reaching $57.2 billion by 2032. GOING GREENERSustainable production, processing, transportation, and consumption of dairy products is essential to protecting the planet and achieving sustainability goals. By 2050, the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy hopes to achieve greenhouse gas (GHG) neutrality in dairy production, optimize water usage, and reduce waste by adopting new production processes. Aside from decreasing milk dumping, the longer shelf life of milk powders means that less milk is wasted, helping reduce food waste and conserve resources. One of the most significant environmental benefits of milk powders for food manufacturers is its compactness and reduced weight. Around 60 gallons of fresh milk is needed to produce 1 gallon of non-fat milk powder, meaning about 60 times less space is required to transport the same amount of milk solids in powder form. Additionally, utilizing milk powders in place of • 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!

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26 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYMAINTENANCE & RELIABILITYfresh milk eradicates the requirement for cold storage. By transporting milk product more efficiently, using less fuel and producing fewer emissions, food manufacturers can reduce their carbon footprint and help to mitigate climate change. PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENTAdopting more environmentally friendly methods of dairy production can aid the mission to a greener future. In New Zealand, new technology has been employed to reuse water from the condensation process involved in the production of milk powder. The “reclaimed” water system is expected to save half a million liters of groundwater daily.Additionally, one of the most sustainable methods of reducing waste is implementing inspection technology into milk powder production lines. Metal detection, X-ray, and checkweighing systems help dairy processors address critical waste, sourcing, and sustainability challenges by targeting operational inefficiencies, including upstream product giveaway, non-conforming food packs, and packaging and contamination issues.The world’s largest producer of WMP located in New Zealand recently updated fifty-six of their Fortress metal detectors to Stealth technology. By adding data logging capabilities and new software algorithms, this processor increased the stainless-steel detection sensitivity to 2 millimeters. “The cycle of parts breaking down, being thrown away and then having to be replaced is not just wasteful, it’s also unsustainable long term,” cautions Steve Gidman, founder and president of Fortress Technology. The ability to upgrade existing inspection equipment, designed with modularity and scalability in mind, contributes to a more sustainable industry. MAINTAINING SUSTAINABLE FOOD SAFETYWith the global milk powder market set to increase in value dramatically over the next ten years, and with dairy farms targeting optimized productivity, further waste reduction efforts are not just necessary but imperative.Industrialization of farming practices combined with the rapid expansion of the global population, and its subsequent demands, has intensified the production of food and food safety pressures. As the world’s largest manufacturer and exporter of WMP and SMP, with their dairy farming predominantly pasture-based and underpinned by an ambitious “green revolution,” New Zealand provides a strong model of sustainable, safe food processing. Fortress aims to leverage this localized processing knowledge and best practices to respond to evolving food trends and the overarching need for sustainable production processes. Fortress Technology produces customized inspection equipment with superior product design and engineering. Our product lineup includes metal detectors, checkweighers, and combination systems designed with a Never Obsolete Commitment. We offer exceptional customer support, parts, software upgrades, and a global service team available throughout the product’s life-cycle. We prioritize customer needs and offer a full refund if products fail to perform as anticipated, demonstrating our confidence in our work. For more information, visit www.fortresstechnology.com.There is big demand for bulk metal detectors on WMP processing lines with automated rejection systems to help prevent bags ripping.

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28 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMOTOR SOLUTIONSMOTOR SOLUTIONSHow to support producer protability during the energy transition. Part 2 of 3 BY MATTHIAS NICKL, THORSTEN WOLF, ROBERT HOSTETLER, NICOLA ERHARD-WINTERBERG, DAVID FERNANDES, AND CRISTINA BECLE, SIEMENS ENERGYMAXIMIZING POWER PLANT FLEXIBILITYwww.mptmag.comSee Part 1AAs we explained in the first part of this series, combined cycle power plants (CCPPs) are becoming a larger portion of the power generation sector as renewables continue to be introduced as part of the North American energy grid. This has necessitated a more flexible approach to asset utilization than power producers of the past had to face.Below, we’ll explore how CCPP operating models are changing to accommodate this rise in renewables and how this energy resource mix necessitates the inclusion of ancillary services to better manage the grid as operators transition to reduced or eliminated carbon footprints.THE IMPACT OF RENEWABLES ON CCPP OPERATING MODELSThese trends are affecting power plants in both regulated and deregulated markets. In the regulated U.S. Southeast market, for example, there is limited wind potential and as solar energy increases in the region’s energy mix, producers must balance supply and demand: overgeneration during the day while the sun is shining, versus rising demand as the sun is setting with solar-generated power exiting the grid. Figure 3 illustrates the expected deepening of the daily net demand ramp-rate curve (“Duck Curve”), a trend that while typically associated with California is now also projected in parts of the Southeast (shown in the figure for a regulated utility), through the anticipated growth in solar capacity by 2032. What is less commonly understood is how soon CCPPs and others will need to increase their operational flexibility and be capable of high ramp rates. Figure 4 illustrates how soon and how often system resource planning teams rely on this level of flexibility to maintain grid stability.In deregulated power markets, plants are dispatched based on the offers they submit to the market and the demand of the market. Typically, the most profitable periods are now concentrated during the evening although weather temperature extremes can cause spikes in demand, which can offer additional profit opportunities.As a result, CCPP operators may need to stay online during low-priced hours despite having negative margins so they can collect the offsetting and more profitable margins the market’s higher priced periods offer. This operating model may create losses for the plant during hours when renewable overgeneration occurs and available prices for power are negligible.One measure CCPP producers Figure 3: How solar growth is expected to impact the ramp-rate curve of Southeast U.S. power producers through 2032.Figure 4: A Southeastern U.S. utility’s forecast of high gas ramp-up hours as the amount of solar grows in years to come

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OCTOBER 2024 | 29WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTcan implement to help reduce these potential losses and help increase margins is to lower their minimum capacities during unprofitable hours. For example, as shown in figure 5, a Southcentral CCPP runs at a 69 percent load during non-profitable hours and ramps up its power production to 100 percent during high-margin periods including sub-hourly peaks in the real time market.This strategy could help reduce the plant’s costs and losses during low-demand hours while also helping it to capitalize on the higher profit margins available during peak-priced periods, potentially boosting daily earnings. Improved cost structures could increase the likelihood of flexible plants being called on days with marginal demand as well as potentially capturing higher prices during real-time market surges.THE GROWING ROLE OF ANCILLARY SERVICES As the proportion of renewables grows in the North American energy resource mix, their inherent intermittency and resulting variability impacts grid stability and reliability as well as frequency control. In response, ISOs/RTOs are looking to ancillary services to better manage the grid during the transition to lower-carbon and net-zero resources.ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas), for example, announced the ERCOT Contingency Reserve Service (ECRS) in June 2023. As a

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30 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMOTOR SOLUTIONSMOTOR SOLUTIONSdaily procured ancillary service supporting ERCOT’s reliability-first model for grid operations, it is intended to address growing energy demands in Texas, mitigating real-time operational issues to keep supply and demand balanced in order to help improve grid stability. According to ERCOT, ECRS provides “capacity that can respond within ten minutes to address forecasting errors or to replace deployed reserves.” ECRS will backstop four other procured ancillary services ERCOT buys in the day-ahead market to balance the next day’s forecasted supply and demand of grid electricity. The debut of ECRS could portend initiatives by other ISOs / RTOs to enhance the ancillary services they use to maintain grid stability and reliability. Overall, the energy transition is expected to drive substantial growth in the use of ancillary services across North America. The U.S. power ancillary service market—led by the frequency controlled ancillary services segment—is estimated to have been worth $6.1 billion in 2022, with a 6.14 percent compound annual growth rate through 2028.FROM BASE TO CYCLING OPERATION MODELSGiven the continued growth of renewables, today’s need for operational flexibility will likely increase well into the future. Operators can help address these challenges by accelerating plant ramp rates to improve plant responsiveness to higher-margin pricing opportunities.CCPPs that are either currently transitioning or anticipating a shift from base load to cyclical operation will likely need to adapt their generating assets to meet these evolving operational requirements. A detailed plant and process analysis, such as a Technical Plant Assessment, is the first step CCPP producers should consider. This in-depth, end-to-end evaluation of a producer’s CCPP configuration, operations, and steam / water process can help identify, quantify, and prioritize improvement opportunities.A LOOK AHEADIn the finale of this series, we’ll walk through some of the improvement opportunities that operators are already incorporating with success as well as some just over the horizon. As you’ll see, for those CCPPs making the transition well, this leads to increased power outputs and operating efficiencies, faster starts and shutdowns, improved load ramp gradient, low-load operation, and expanded operating ranges. Located in ninety countries, Siemens Energy operates across the whole energy landscape—from conventional to renewable power, from grid technology to storage to electrifying complex industrial processes. For more than 150 years our engineers have been spearheading the electrification of the world. Today, we are a team of 99.000 sharing the same passion, vision, and values. Our diversity makes us strong and helps us to find answers together with our partners. For more information, visit www.siemens-energy.com.Figure 5: Hourly real-time and day-ahead margins of a large combined cycle Southcentral U.S. power plant plotted against its percent load, showing operating profit/loss durations.

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OCTOBER 2024 | 31WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPT

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32 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTSEALING SOLUTIONSSEALING SOLUTIONSVALVE STATION PLANNING 101From sizing to customization to layout, here’s what you need to know. Part 1 of 2 BY MARK GIMSON, CLA-VALControl valves (CV) are found throughout municipal water distribution systems and are integral to maintaining consistent water pressure and supply. The importance and ubiquity of control valves underscore their significance in the functionality and reliability of water distribution infrastructures. To ensure the CV provides the functionality required with years of trouble-free operation, it’s important to select the correct size of valve and accessories, while providing a well-designed environment for the operational personnel that will have to maintain this valve. SIZING YOUR VALVEMost valve stations in municipal water situations are pressure reducing valves and selecting the right size is important, as problems can arise from incorrect sizing. Rather than sizing the valve based on line size, it is necessary to consider flow, pressure, and velocity. Knowing the size of the water main and the maximum, average, and minimum flow demands, one can move forward in the valve size selection. Some manufacturers, like Cla-Val, have a sizing software program that makes it quick and simple to size a valve correctly, but understanding what the program is considering is useful. A software program will select a valve size based on the maximum required flow the valve has to pass, based on the minimum system differential pressure. This will be the upstream pressure minus the required downstream pressure that the reducing valve will be set at. The program will consider the velocity passing through the valve—it is best Cla-Val software for cavitation analysis.A well planned out valve station, has good access for maintenance.

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OCTOBER 2024 | 33WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTto limit this to 20 feet per second in valves operating continuously. In valve stations, it is common to have two control valves in parallel. The larger valve on the main line is designed to take care of peak flows, while the smaller second valve on a bypass will take care of low flows. Typically, the smaller, bypass valve will be sized to handle approximately 20 percent of the peak flow. The smaller valve is also set slightly higher in pressure than the large valve. This allows the smaller valve to open first in the sequence, followed by the large valve as flow increases. The smaller valve is also the last to close as flow diminishes. This bypass line also offers redundancy as either of the valves can be used to supply the network while the other is being serviced. This is particularly important where it is not possible or practical to shut off the main water supply for periods of time. Some manufacturers have software to support valve station design and allow engineers to consider the impact of velocities, among other things. Often, the velocity in a bypass valve can be excessive, potentially causing damage to the small valve and increasing loud noise levels. Using software, a designer can specify the use of a transition device that will bring the main line valve into operation before high velocities are reached, which is often before the lower pressure setting of the larger valve.CONSIDER THE RISK OF CAVITATIONAnytime there is an application where reductions from a higher pressure to a lower pressure, and that ratio is greater than 3:1, there is a real risk of cavitation. This phenomenon will destroy a valve over time due to erosion and can create noise and vibration in the pipeline that may be a problem for nearby residents. However, unlike in days past when multiple valves would have to be installed to stagger the pressure drops, this can now be achieved through an anti-cavitation trim. This is a specific trim consisting of two stainless steel cages with slotted openings or drilled orifices, that contain the cavitation in the center of the cages, eliminating the disastrous erosion issues. It is always recommended to run a cavitation software program to determine if cavitation will be a problem, and this should be a program specific to the manufacturer’s valve. Generic programs are available but do not account for the actual body shape of the valve. OPTIONS TO CUSTOMIZEThe real advantage of diaphragm-actuated globe valves is that one can have a pilot system tailored to a specific application. Numerous features can be added to give a custom solution that provides real operational benefits. Stainless steel pilot systems are popular and the price differences to brass/bronze or copper is not restrictive, and it should last longer, particularly in harsher environments. Pilot systems can be installed on either side of the control valve so give some thought to the location for accessibility with ladders and also clearance for maintenance. Pilot tubing is frequently stepped on or knocked because of poor placement—with a little forethought, this is avoidable. The pilot system should always be installed with a strainer and can be a flow clean, internal style, or an external Y-strainer style. In tough applications, a water filter can be used. Pilot isolating valves are vital for maintenance and troubleshooting of the valve - even on the smallest of valve sizes. A LOOK AHEADIn the conclusion of this piece, we’ll examine further customization options, including options to give more system control. Additionally, we’ll look over key considerations for design layout and which practical and functional additions are best considered before a valve station is installed. Mark Gimson is director of marketing and international sales for Cla-Val. As a mechanical engineer with forty years in the water industry, Gimson has a passion for expanding markets and understanding customer challenges to provide the optimal solution. Cla-Val is a world-leading designer and manufacturer of automatic control valves. From reducing and relief valves to deluge, air valves and more, Cla-Val manufactures and provides a wide variety of solutions for use in some of the world’s most demanding applications. For more information, visit www.cla-val.com.Accessory packages like the Cla-Val Model XP2F is a complete instrumentation accessory package.

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34 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTMODERN PUMPING PRODUCTSMODERN PUMPING PRODUCTSFor more information, visitWWW.NETZSCH.COMFEATURED PRODUCTNETZSCHThe Tornado T1 Generation F pump is extremely versatile for just about any orientation and installation. Its robust design offers longevity, operational flexibility, and dry-run capabilities. It allows the pump to operate and handle many upset process conditions without causing harm to the pump. The pumps are available up to over 4,000 gallons per minute and up to 145 psi.The Tornado T1 pump has been around for over a generation. This new Generation F series is the new, improved T1 design that offers up to 25 percent more efficiency. Netzsch continues to improve the design and develop its capabilities to make it stronger, last longer, and add beneficial features. Netzsch Pumps USA, the leading complex fluid handling solutions provider, highlights its Tornado T1 Generation F pump, designed to produce high flow at low to medium pressures in a small compact package. It is ideal for various industrial applications. The Tornado T1 Generation F pump can handle a wide range of viscosities, solids, temperature, abrasion, and corrosive/acidic process fluids, and environments.TORNADO T1 GENERATION F ROTARY LOBE PUMP

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OCTOBER 2024 | 35WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTCONTROL STATION SYSTEM HEALTH MONITORINGControl Station announces the launch of System Health Monitoring (SHM), a tiered service offering that leverages intelligence captured by the company's PlantESP Loop Performance Monitoring solution. The service enables proactive monitoring of PlantESP deployments, facilitating rapid response to system resource issues and guidance for achieving world-class control. Dozens of PlantESP licensees and the associated production facilities enrolled in the service offering prior to today's official launch. For more information, visit www.controlstation.com.FLOMATIC VFD WAFER CHECK VALVE Flomatic expands its popular Model 888S6VFD wafer check valve line with the introduction of a new 1-1/2 inch in an all-stainless-steel construction. This new size joins Flomatic’s existing range of 2- through 6 inches, offering customers even more options to meet their specific application needs. The all-stainless-steel construction provides exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, making it ideal for demanding environments. The Model 888VFD is a patented check valve designed for next-generation VFD-controlled pump systems. For more information, visit www.flomatic.com.ATLAS COPCOE-AIR H450 VSDEquipped with a powerful motor and VSD technology, the E-Air provides a steady supply of compressed air, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of essential equipment. The VSD technology adjusts the compressor's speed and air output based on demand, optimizing energy use and reducing wear and tear on components. The electric motor, unlike traditional diesel engines, also operates with low noise, creating a quieter and more comfortable work environment. For more information, visit www.atlascopco.com.BILCO TYPE FT-30 ACCESS DOORThe Type FT-30 door is flood-tight against a 30-foot head of water from the topside and a 5-foot head of water (when specified) from the underside. It features corrosion-resistant aluminum construction with stainless steel hardware. Covers are reinforced for AASHTO H-20 wheel loading to withstand vehicular loading as a standard feature. Bilco’s new flood-tight door is designed with an innovative new latching system that securely seals the cover and allows the cover to be opened quickly and easily. For more information, visit www.bilco.com.

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36 | OCTOBER 2024 WWW.MPTMAG.COMMPTEFFICIENCY POINTEFFICIENCY POINTSupporting its ‘Go Green’ initiative, Jacobi Carbons, Inc. is introducing a refined AddSorb OX-Series, a coconut-shell based replacement for the company’s original coal-based product for hydrogen sulfide removal. Available in two pelletized variations, this innovation is specially formulated for optimal odor control, offering high hydrogen sulfide capacity, while also achieving sustainable manufacturing goals. Jim Knepper, Jacobi Carbons, Inc. president of the Americas, explains how below. MPT: How did working on a coconut shell-based product come about?JIM KNEPPER: The AddSorb OX-Series products represent a solution for a variety of odor control scenarios where hydrogen sulfide, organics, or the presence of both cause issues in meeting emissions requirements. The product is manufactured using a unique process, which establishes the high adsorption capacity without the use of a chemical impregnation being applied to the activated carbon surface. In its place, a reactive surface functionality is established which can convert hydrogen sulfide to sulfur compounds which may be physically adsorbed. In addition, the product retains an appreciable capacity for organic contaminants.MPT: How does this tie into your company’s “Go Green” strategy?JIM KNEPPER: Jacobi Carbon’s “Go Green” is a company-wide effort to improve overall sustainability and a long-term initiative that aims to develop a sustainability-first mindset across the board, which will then translate into tangible improvements in lowering the global warming potential throughout the business, minimizing environmental impact. It involves all stakeholders, from production plants to those working in office-based roles and even the highest levels of management.MPT: Could you explain a bit on how this product works?JIM KNEPPER: With coconut shell as the primary raw material, the global warming potential of the AddSorb OX-Series is significantly less than that of the prior coal-based offering, meaning a more sustainable product for the market. Also, the AddSorb OX-Series is available as two variants in extruded form only. One, AddSorb OX20, has a minimum hydrogen sulfide loading capacity of 0.2 grams per cubic centimeter (capacity is 40 percent by weight). The other, AddSorb OX30, has an enhanced hydrogen sulfide loading capacity of 0.3 grams per cubic centimeter (capacity is 66 percent by weight).MPT: What other innovations could you see going forward?JIM KNEPPER: It’s an exciting time for Jacobi. With the addition of the AddSorb OX-Series and more sustainable products under development that use other more novel raw materials such as apricot kernels and hazelnut shells, we are well on our way to reaching our sustainability goals. IT’S SMART TO USE YOUR COCONUTJacobi Carbons goes green with new coconut shell-based AddSorb OX-SeriesEstablished in 1916, Jacobi Carbons, Inc. is a global supplier of activated carbon, ion exchange, and filter service solutions for a variety of applications, including municipal and industrial water treatment. The company is on a mission to become the most sustainable supplier in the industry, currently the world’s largest manufacturer of coconut shell-based activated carbon. For more information, visit www.jacobi.net. Jim Knepper

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