The Husky e-Series range from Graco combines all the benefits of a traditional air operated diaphragm pump (self-priming, stalling under pressure, a seal-less design and increased diaphragm life) with the benefits of an electric pump (energy cost savings, reduced pulsation and increased pump control).
These pumps are ideal for applications that require low pulsation and a smooth flow. The patented air charged drive allows for the elimination or reduction of pulsation without expensive dampeners or surge tanks.
The Husky electric range now has a new family member. Besides the Husky 1050e electric double diaphragm pump (1 inch), there now is a Husky 2150e. This has a 2 inch (50.8 mm) connection and is available in aluminium, polypropylene and stainless steel. The pump is designed to transfer up to 530 l/min and capable of moving solids up to 6.3 mm.
Electric pumps in the field
For the construction of a new inland tanker that transports chemicals to large water purification plants, a Dutch shipping company was looking for a solution that would save as much space as possible on board. The chemicals are added gradually to the cleaning process of the water purification and are intended to deal with the unpleasant odour.
Previously, a compressed air pump by a rival brand was used to fill the hose system. Space for a compressor had to be made in the ship's engine room. Given that there is not much room on such a ship to begin with, this was a recurring problem. Moreover, air supply pipework from the compressor to the diaphragm pump had to be installed on board.
Looking for an innovative solution, the company approached a local Graco distributor. They proposed to install two Graco Husky electric pumps. Each unit has its own compressor discretely situated within the frame, saving space. Why two? Using two pumps ensures the continuity of the process against any obstacles; as a result, the system can be filled up faster than before. The major advantage is that the shipping company no longer has to install a compressor in the engine room and therefore has more room for other things.
Later the distributor gave a demo with a test pump in order to show how the pump works and to give confidence to the shipping company that the system would work using the Husky. The demo proved that the pumps offer a better total solution, and so it was an easy decision for the shipping company to opt for this innovative solution.
The two pumps were mounted on the deck midships. In total, the pumps have to fill a suction hose of around one hundred metres before the fluid, which is at a depth of four metres, reaches the pumps. In three minutes, the system was primed full of chemicals with a higher density than before. During commissioning of the system the optimum flow rates were obtained at 60% of the pumps' capacity. This optimisation meant that the energy consumption was reduced considerably.
With these two electric pumps the company saved space in the ship's engine room. The pumps ensure that the hose system is filled before the crew begins the actual unloading. The crew could thus prepare the process even before arrival, and begin to unload immediately after the ship had reached the port.
The shipping company has ordered two more Husky pumps for another set-up.
