Concepts for estimating pumping energy costs:Systems without static head or closed loop systems

Systems without static head or closed loop systems

The specific energy here is dependent on the frictional head loss which, in turn, is determined by the losses in the pipe system (including throttling valves), and by the combined drive-motor-pump efficiency.

The combined drive-motor-pump efficiency has to be evaluated for each duty point. It is to be noted that the pump efficiency remains approxi mately the same in a system of this type when the speed is changed, whereas the drive-motor efficiency can drop drastically as the load is reduced. If on the other hand, the system curve is changed by changing the setting of a valve, this will change the duty point of the pump and, hence, its efficiency.