The pumping industry is a cornerstone of numerous sectors, including water treatment, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. These sectors share many challenges, including the need for site/pump equipment and gear units to operate for ongoing or lengthy periods.
This need alone can pose many challenges. Durability in harsh conditions, unique site or output requirements, and long-term energy efficiencies are all considerations for Engineers and Project Managers.
Water treatment, for example, has some of the most demanding operational needs in the industry. Processing is typically a 24/7 operation, and millions of litres are processed per day at a given facility. Exposure to corrosive elements like chemicals, minerals, organic matter, etc., is extremely common in water treatment. Pump and gear units need durability to withstand these conditions and operate as efficiently as possible regarding energy consumption. Any energy disparity can seem insignificant on a daily basis, however even a percent difference can mean thousands in savings (or losses) after an annual financial review.
Mitigating challenges with one step
Selecting the appropriate gear unit is a critical step in addressing these challenges. Engineers invest time and caution to ensure correct selection, as the equipment will ultimately impact long-term finances. SEW-EURODRIVE approaches this scenario with the same intention: to design the solution with the end goal in mind. This is best done by allowing extensive customisation to map the equipment exactly to a site’s specific needs. The M1..N series of gear units was designed specifically with this needed variety in mind.
In designing the M1..N range, offering low gear ratios was a priority. This allows control of exact speeds during operation. The ratios are close to each other, ranging from 1 to 7.1, with Nominal Torque between 0.5 to 248 kNm. This benefits the pumping industry greatly, as small changes in these speeds directly impact the efficiency and, therefore, the financial bottom line. Custom ratios are also possible to produce with this series for maximum optimization.
Durability & working conditions
Australia’s worksites can vary greatly, and durability is challenged in unique ways. The MN.. 1’s rugged cast-iron or steel housing allows it to withstand harsh working conditions, such as those in the mining industry, where constant vibrations and shock loads are the norm.
Remote locations see consistently hot temperatures, with some areas experiencing 45°C days consecutively. A fan, cooling coil or circulation cooling options are available to combat high operating and environmental temperatures. This option alone can have a huge impact on optimization.
The MN..1 comes standard with a contactless labyrinth seal to exclude contaminants without greasing and ensure wear-free operation. Advanced monitoring options, including internal temperature and vibration sensors, are available. Pressure lubrication, where oil is pumped to specific components, will further improve the gearbox’s efficiency.
Keeping serviceability in mind, the horizontal split housing was designed for quick and easy disassembly. This enables on-site personnel to perform inspections, diagnose potential issues, and maintain with minimal disruption. Poor access to internal components often leads to longer downtimes, which is completely avoided here. Common tasks, such as lubricant changes, can be done efficiently. Moreover, the split housing also allows SEW-EURODRIVE’s support team to assist with troubleshooting and routine maintenance, such as a bearing and seal change, which can, be done at any of our service centres nationwide.
Getting it right the First time
Choosing the right gear unit is key to keeping operations running efficiently and cost-effectively without any unplanned downtime. The SEW-EURODRIVE M1..N series tackles the biggest challenges in the pumping industry, offering durability to handle tough conditions, customisable options to meet unique site needs, and optimised efficiency to cut energy costs.
Learn more at: www.sew-eurodrive.com.au
