Gresham Smith is proud to announce that Senior Project Engineer Cameron Traylor, P.E., and Project Engineer Caleb Wilson, P.E., will present at the Georgia Association for Water Professionals Annual Conference on Tuesday, July 16, in Savannah, Georgia.
A summary of the presentation is below.
How to Pump Downhill: A Closer Look at Pump Hydraulics and ARV Sizing
Presentation by Cameron Traylor, P.E. and Caleb Wilson, P.E.
Tuesday, July 16, 2024 | 2 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. ET | Meeting Room 101
Selecting the right pump for any system is a delicate balance of physics, however, pumping fluid downhill adds another level of complexity to an already challenging topic: siphons. Understanding the intricate relationship between pump hydraulics and the potential to create a siphon is vital to avoiding costly mechanical failure and ensure efficient operations.
This presentation will explore the fundamental changes in pump hydraulics when operating with negative static head. This includes discussing how changes in head pressure and flow dynamics can affect the pump’s efficiency, performance, and overall reliability. We will examine the challenges associated with avoiding siphons, and the necessary equipment requirements for optimal system operation: air release valves. Properly sized combination air release valves (ARVs) are essential for maintaining system integrity during downhill pumping. We will delve into the significance of ARVs in preventing air entrapment and breaking vacuums created by intermediate high points.
By the end of this presentation, attendees will have gained comprehensive insights into optimizing downhill pumping systems for improved efficiency and reduced maintenance. These insights will lead to cost savings, enhanced reliability, and the avoidance of common pitfalls associated with siphon formation.
