Pulsation Dampeners or Snubbers
Pulsation dampeners or snubbers are specialized devices that use a nitrogen-charged bladder to absorb the pressure spikes and surges created by reciprocating pumps. They help reduce pulsations from 45% down to as low as 2%.
How should you manage pulsation issues with reciprocating pumps?
It’s important to control the pump’s bouncing and shaking from pulsation. This back-and-forth see-saw effect can cause pumps to stop working well over time by damaging critical system components.
Managing Pulsation in Reciprocating Pumps
Pulsation in reciprocating pumps, also called positive displacement pumps, can lead to critical issues affecting pump performance and longevity.
Power Flow’s oilfield pump engineers use devices called dampeners to fix pulsation. Dampeners act like shock absorbers in a car, helping smooth the pulsation and keep the pump running smoothly.
Performance Issues in Reciprocating Pumps Caused by Pulsation
Pulsation in reciprocating pumps can result in:
Vibration
Pulsation causes vibrations throughout the pump and associated piping, contributing to premature wear and potential failure of pump components. This vibration is primarily caused by the rapid changes in fluid flow and pressure within the system.
Cavitation
Another consequence of pulsation is cavitation, where rapid pressure changes create bubbles in the liquid. These bubbles can implode violently near pump impellers and bearings, causing damage and reducing pump efficiency over time.
Noise
Pulsation generates noise that can be disruptive to operators and nearby residents. Additionally, excessive noise can mask important operational sounds that might indicate underlying pump issues requiring attention.
Managing Pressure Pulsation with Dampeners
To mitigate the adverse effects of pulsation, dampeners can be installed at the discharge side of reciprocating pumps. These devices help regulate pressure and flow variations, thereby prolonging the pump’s service life.
How Pulsation Dampeners Work
Pulsation dampeners act as shock absorbers filled with compressed gas and process fluid, separated by a flexible bladder or diaphragm. They effectively smooth out pressure spikes and fluctuations caused by the reciprocating action of the pump.
Vulnerable Components
Components such as valves, seals, bearings, and piping are particularly susceptible to damage from the dynamic forces induced by pulsating flow. Over time, this wear can lead to diminished pump performance, increased maintenance needs, and premature equipment failure.
Conclusion
Understanding and managing pulsation in reciprocating pumps are critical for maintaining operational efficiency and extending the lifespan of pumping systems. By implementing appropriate dampening solutions and monitoring system performance, operators can mitigate the risks associated with pulsation and ensure reliable pump operation in industrial applications.
Who Makes Dampeners for Use on Reciprocating Pumps to Manage Pulsation?
Power Flow sells pulsation dampeners to fit reciprocating pumps through the following manufacturers:
