How to Choose ASME B73.1 Pump?

Selecting the Right Pump for Oil & Gas Applications

If you want to learn more, please visit our website.

Choosing the right ASME B73.1 pump involves understanding various factors such as dimensional interchangeability and compliance with industry standards. These considerations ensure that one vendor's pump can easily replace another's in the same application space.

Understanding ASME B73.1 & ISO 5199

The ASME B73.1 standard, established in 1974, evolved over the years to become the "Specification for Horizontal End Suction Centrifugal Pumps for Chemical Processes." This standard is continuously updated to meet modern industrial requirements. On the other hand, ISO 5199:2002, which is referenced in the 50 Hz power systems community, specifies similar requirements for centrifugal pumps but is not fully interchangeable with ASME B73.1.

Dimensional Interchangeability

Both ASME B73.1 and ISO 5199 aim to provide dimensional interchangeability. This includes critical measures such as distances from base-mounting surfaces to shaft centerlines and from pump suction to discharge nozzles.

Electrical Frequency

ASME B73.1 is often used for 60 Hz power systems, while ISO 5199 is preferred for 50 Hz systems. Both standards are widely referenced for centrifugal pump projects beyond chemical process applications.

ANSI & ISO versus API Pumps

ANSI/ASME and ISO-compliant pumps often incorporate their mounting pads within the casing's base, leading to a higher thermal rise of the shaft centerline compared to API pumps, which are centerline-mounted and adhere to API 610 standards. API's focus is on strength and reliability, especially for flammable and toxic substances.

API 610 Specifications

API pumps are centerline-mounted with a 7-inch distance between driver and driven shaft ends. Spacer couplings minimize misalignment angles, facilitating easy maintenance.

Application Conditions

API 610-compliant pumps are recommended when head exceeds 350 feet, temperature exceeds specified limits, drivers exceed 100 hp, suction pressures surpass 75 psig, and flow or speeds are beyond certain thresholds.

Best-in-Class Pumps: A Benchmark

Best-in-class (BiC) pump users select vendors with proven records of long failure-free runs, sound quality, and on-time deliveries. They also closely review exceptions to standards to ensure reliability.

Quality Control

Competent vendors employ experienced specialists, provide effective training, and have robust quality control and inspection departments. These factors contribute to reasonable pricing, often yielding the lowest life cycle costs.

Choosing Custom-Built Pumps

Custom-built vertical pumps, like the example where the pumping element can be removed as one piece, are designed with user-oriented maintenance and reliability in mind. Both API and non-API standards guide such custom designs.

Vendor Evaluation

Pump specifications are sent to multiple bidders, and their replies are meticulously reviewed. High-reliability vendor-manufacturers should willingly provide proven user experience details.

Why Better Pumps Matter

Better pumps go beyond hydraulic efficiency and modern metallurgy by mitigating risks in the mechanical drive-end, the part most susceptible to cost-cutting and failures.

Examining Drawings

Reviewing pump drawings helps identify why certain pumps fail more frequently, revealing areas of risk and vulnerability that BiCs have addressed.

Common Vulnerabilities

Experts have found issues such as incorrectly designed oil rings, non-cartridge thrust bearings, inferior bearing housing protector seals, and uncertain lubricator types as common vulnerabilities that need addressing.

Insisting on Better Pumps

Reliability-focused professionals prioritize long-term costs over short-term expenses. They understand that price is what one pays, and value is what one gets.

Long-Term Reliability

Reviewing pump drawings and comparing cross-sectional details help eliminate vulnerabilities, ensuring fewer failures and consistent long-term performance.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website.