Technology - trdoer50025

Technology

High-efficiency pumps have been used since October 1995 and are in-

stalled on more than 10 dredges. The high-efficiency pumps improve suc-

tion characteristics, reduce wear, and improve production. Efficiency has

been increased by 20 percent at the same power output as conventional

pumps. Computers were instrumental in improving the hydraulic proper-

ties of dredge pumps.

The high-efficiency pump's double-torqued blades and the fully rounded

suction shield combine to significantly improve suction characteristics

and make the pump less susceptible to cavitation. Consequently, there is

an improvement of flow through the entire pump, which in turn reduces

wear. Since pump impellers are a single-cast unit, they are not usually re-

paired but are replaced when worn out. For maximizing abrasion resis-

tance, wear casings and impellers are made of patented high-chromium

white iron for the Krupp/GIW pumps.

Current usage

High-efficiency dredge pumps have been installed on many of the Euro-

pean dredges constructed in the last several years. This includes the

"jumbo" dredges similar to the QUEEN OF THE NETHERLANDS (23,347-m3

hopper capacity).

Potential application

High-efficiency dredge pumps have the potential for application at the

following sites:

a. Installation on Corp's Hopper Dredge McFarland under Philadelphia

District's anticipated Repair, Alteration and Modernization Pro-

gram (RAMP).

b. Installation on any of the Corps dredges including hopper dredges,

cutterhead dredges, and dustpan dredges. Installation would take

place during the next scheduled dredge pump replacement over-

haul.

Cost

Costs of new high-efficiency dredge pumps are not known; they have a

remarkably short investment payback time.

Company/Organization(s): Access restricted to U.S. Army Corps of

Chapter 4

Detailed Evaluations