The Significance of Variable Speed Drives in Minimizing Life Cycle Costs of Pumping Systems

A staggering 90% of the total cost of pump ownership stems from energy consumption, highlighting a substantial opportunity to incorporate variable speed drives (SHS) in both new and retrofit installations. Most pumping applications require control, making it unlikely for a pump to operate continuously at maximum speed.

When it comes to limiting life cycle costs (LCC) of a pump station, variable speed drives play a pivotal role. The three primary cost factors include energy, initial investment, and maintenance. Analyses reveal that energy consumption is the dominant element of LCC, particularly for pumps operating more than 2,000 hours per year. Comparatively, the investment cost of the necessary equipment (variable speed drives, motors, and pumps) is relatively low when considering the total LCC.

Maintenance constitutes the third major cost component. SHS control not only functions as an energy-saving solution but also serves as a means of preventive maintenance, helping to reduce maintenance costs in multiple ways.

The benefits of SHS control in pumping systems are manifold. The most notable advantage is energy savings, which is critical when considering the high energy consumption of pumping applications. Accurate pump system control is another key benefit, ensuring optimal operation and efficiency. Furthermore, integrating with other automation systems is made easy with SHS®, facilitating seamless communication through common fieldbus gateways.

In summary, utilizing variable speed drives such as SHS is crucial in reducing life cycle costs, particularly for energy-intensive pumping systems. By optimizing pump control and maintenance, significant savings can be achieved, ultimately benefiting both operational efficiency and the bottom line.