A new pump control software module for drives has been launched by ABB. Featuring six pump control functions, the new Intelligent Pump Control (IPC) software eliminates the need for an external PLC and can help to save energy, reduce downtime and prevent pump jamming and pipeline blocking.
The IPC is a software add-on for ABB industrial drives, which cover a power range from 0.55kW to 5600kW. It contains all the common functions needed by pump users, and incorporates ABB's adaptive programming utility, enabling users to customise drives for specific applications.
Where several pumps are operated together and the required flow rate is variable, the IPC uses multi-pump control. Each pump is controlled by its own drive, with one being speed adjusted and the others running at constant speed, giving smooth control with no pressure peaks.
The IPC also offers a level control function, which can be used with a single pump, or up to three pumps with AC drives in parallel. Further, for flow monitoring, the IPC eliminates the need for flow meters with its flow calculation function, used to control a single pump installation. Sensorless flow measurement is possible, or data can be supplied by pressure transmitters.
Preventive maintenance is important for all industrial equipment and the IPC achieves this through its anti-jam function. When the function is triggered, the pump is run at high speed and either reversed or stopped in a number of user-defined cleaning cycles, clearing built-up particles and avoiding corrosion.
Priority pump control is used to balance the operating time of all the pumps in the system. This facility helps pump operators plan their maintenance and can boost energy efficiency by operating pumps near their best efficiency point. For instance, in a system where the consumption rate is greater during the day, the drive can be programmed to operate higher capacity pumps during daytime and smaller units at night.
