VEMC-Blogs

Author: vemcoblogs

Proper procedure for priming a centrifugal pump to prevent and ensure smooth operation

by vemcoblogs -
Kirloskar pump authorised dealer

If you own a centrifugal pump, you would know the importance of priming it before use. It simply refers to filling the pump with a liquid to generate enough suction to operate efficiently. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump authorised dealer and in this blog, we talk about the proper procedure to prime your pump to prevent damage and ensure its smooth operation.

Dangers of running a non-primed pump

  1. Cavitation: Without enough liquid for suction inside the pump, there are high risks of cavitation. This is caused by the creation of air bubbles which on bursting create tiny shock waves inside the pump body, leading to gradual internal damage over time.
  2. Drop in performance: Without priming, a centrifugal pump tends to operate at lesser efficiency. It is unable to generate optimum pressure and flow rates.
  3. Overheating: Without adequate fluid inside the pump, the rotating parts can get overheated. This can catalyze wear and tear, and also reduce the expected lifespan of the pump.
  4. Damage to parts: Impellers, shafts, bearings, and seals could face excessive strain due to a lack of fluid inside the pump. This can cause severe damage to parts over some time.
  5. Safety hazards: In some sensitive applications, not priming a pump could even lead to accidents, environmental hazards, and disruptions.

What are the different priming techniques?

  1. Manual priming: Simply by opening the casing and suction pipe and letting the liquid flow in.
  2. Flooded suction: By installing a pump below the level of the source of liquid, and thus using gravity to prime the pump.
  3. Self-priming: Pumps create a vacuum to draw in the liquid automatically without any manual intervention.
  4. Vacuum priming: Using an external vacuum pump to draw the liquid into the casing.
  5. Recirculation: The pumped fluid is recirculated from the discharge side into the suction side. This is especially useful for low-viscosity liquids.
  6. Using a priming pump: A separate priming pump or system is used to create a vacuum, evacuate air, and draw the liquid in.

How to prime a centrifugal pump safely

  1. Make sure your pump is ready for priming. Check all the valves, fittings, and connections.
  2. Check whether the pump has adequate fluid levels to cover the pump’s suction inlet.
  3. Open the vent valve and allow the air to escape.
  4. Fill the pump casing in case you are priming manually.
  5. Close the vent valve once you have filled the suction line with fluid. This will prevent air from escaping.
  6. If you’re using a self-priming pump, start the priming process at this stage.
  7. Monitor the pump priming process throughout, to ensure proper operation.
  8. Close the priming mechanism (if applicable) and start the pump.

For more on priming your centrifugal pumps, feel free to call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump authorised dealer based in Mumbai, with over 70 years of experience in the field of pumping.

How dewatering pumps manage solid waste and debris

by vemcoblogs -
Kirloskar pump dealer

Solid waste in water could make users wary of clogging in piping as well as pumps. But with the right dewatering pump, there is simply no cause for worry. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump dealer based in Mumbai, and in this blog we talk about the challenges and possibilities of dealing with solid waste and debris using dewatering pumps.

Challenges of solid waste in dewatering

  1. Physical blockage: For starters, solid wastes like rags, wood or plastic bags can create physical blockage inside the pump, thus reducing its efficiency.
  2. Wear and tear: With repeated passage of solid waste especially abrasives like sand and gravel, the wear and tear of pumps may increase, reducing their working life.
  3. Pump capacity is reduced: Obstruction caused by solid wastes can reduce the capacity of the pump to displace water significantly.
  4. Rise in maintenance costs: Repeated wear and tear can cause breakdowns and result in rise of maintenance costs over a period of time.
  5. Higher downtime: Pumps that process solid wastes along with water always carry the risks of sudden and unexpected breakdowns. This can affect business operations that are directly dependent upon pumping.

Features of dewatering pumps that can help manage debris

While above challenges are quite realistic and can pose significant risks to your pumps, some features of your dewatering pumps can help manage the debris with ease.

  1. Capacity to handle solids: Dewatering pumps are specially designed to handle solid wastes in water. Pumps with large impeller passages or vortex impellers can be highly useful for this.
  2. Design features: Dewatering pumps have a unique non-clogging design (say using vortex impellers, built-in strainers and filters) which reduce the risks of clogging. 
  3. Lesser wear and tear: With their robust construction of cast iron or stainless steel, dewatering pumps can withstand wear and tear due to abrasion admirably.
  4.  Variable speed and flow: Some dewatering pumps can optimise their performance even with debris by adjusting their speed and flow. This can prevent clogging and improve efficiency.
  5. Self-priming: Pumps that are self-primed are easy to operate and maintain especially with high debris content in the water.
  6. Ease of maintenance: Dewatering pumps provide ease of access to their internal component parts, making it convenient to clean and maintain them regularly.

Pre-filtering water to minimise solid waste

While all the above features are a great add-on to your dewatering pumps, it is always advisable to pre-filter water before it reaches your pumps. It can add a significant layer of safety for your pumps and reduce the need for maintenance and regular cleaning, prevent system damage, and improve pump performance.

How to clear debris from your pumps

  • Inspect the intake visually to identify debris
  • Remove the debris manually while wearing protective gloves.
  • Flush the intake with clean water using a hose.
  • If the pump has intake screens or filters, clean them or replace them regularly.
  • Inspect pump components like impellers, volutes, seals etc.

For more on using your dewatering pumps for processing water full of solid wastes and debris, feel free to call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump dealer based in Mumbai.

PICO – An Innovative Product by KBL that uses alternate source of energy

by vemcoblogs -
PICO

As pressure on energy sources rises, there is a growing clamour for alternative and innovative sources of energy. These have the potential to offer electricity in emergencies or during sudden outage. One such alternative is PICO, a compact and innovative product developed by Kirloskar Brothers Ltd. VEMC is a leading supplier of solar rooftop systems and in this blog, we talk about this new and innovative product by KBL.

What is PICO?

PICO is a pump developed by the exceptional KBL engineers that can be operated in reverse to generate electricity. It is a cost-effective solution for offering alternative source of energy to industries that are sensitive to power-cuts and outages. It is the best alternative if your energy requirements are less and short-term.

Which applications can PICO be used for?

Given the above benefits as well as constraints, PICO can be used for the following applications:

  1. Villages: India’s deep rural hinterland often struggles with power connectivity. PICO acts as an effective alternative to provide electricity to such villages mainly for household lighting.
  2. Remote farms: Likewise, PICO can come in handy to power remote farms where electric infrastructure is weak.
  3. Battery charging and other intermittent requirements: PICO can be used quite effectively to charge your inverter batteries in times of long and unexpected power cuts.

Environmental and economic benefits of PICO

PICO is a product developed by KBL in view of the ongoing debate of environment, sustainability and climate change. Here are some ways in which PICO is great for the environment and is also an economic source of energy:

1. Renewable energy: PICO generates energy like a small-scale turbine and is therefore a typical source of renewable energy. This can contribute significantly to reduce the pressure on the grid and limit the reliance on conventional sources like coal.

2. Low emissions: With PICO, you no longer have to worry about emissions. This can help businesses lower their carbon footprint and contribute to the green economy.

3. Energy-efficiency: Small-scale power generators like PICO are more energy efficient as compared to large scale plants. These are located very close to points of use and there is very little loss in transmission. This makes PICO highly efficient and environment friendly.

4. Conserves resources: PICO operating in massive numbers over the years can reduce the pressure on our already dwindling natural resources, and help conserve them for a longer period of time.

5. Promotes a culture of sustainability: Little initiatives and inventions like PICO can contribute to fostering a culture of sustainability and circular economy. This can have a domino effect and inspire change across businesses, industries and societies.
The ideal user base for PICO is village consumers, households, small grid power plants, high-rise buildings and remote farms. To know more about PICO, get in touch with VEMC by calling on 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading solar rooftop system providers in Mumbai.

Preventive Strategies for Dewatering in Low-Lying Areas

by vemcoblogs -
industrial water pumps dealers in Mumbai

If you’re dewatering in low-lying areas, be prepared for some formidable challenges. Even a moderate amount of rainfall can cause significant water logging while stormy rains can inundate the areas completely and in a very short span of time. This calls for special preparedness. We at VEMC are one of the leading industrial water pumps dealers in Mumbai, and in this blog we talk about the preventive strategies you need for dewatering low-lying areas.

Difficulties of dewatering flood-prone areas

  • Dewatering flood prone areas requires you to be quick on your feet. This is because even a short amount of rainfall could quickly inundate the space giving you very little reaction time.
  • Due to high soil saturation, it can be quite difficult to drain away the water from the low-lying area.
  • Low-lying areas often have a high water table which can make it quite challenging to dewater it.
  • While dewatering the low-lying or flood prone area, there is a risk of continuous inflow of water from the nearby streams, lakes or rivers.
  • Dewatering a flood-prone or low-lying area can also have serious environmental concerns as it could lead to undesirable deposition of sediments in the nearby areas.
  • Finally, dewatering flood-prone areas is quite a costly affair as it requires the continuous engagement of men, material and equipment.

Proactive measures for dewatering

While the above difficulties may sound rather insurmountable, it is nonetheless possible to effectively dewater a flood-prone area. This is especially true if we follow a proactive strategies like French drains and sump pumps.

  • A French drain is made by using perforated pipe buried in a trench that is filled with gravel. It redirects water away from an area and prevents pooling in low-lying areas.
  • Sump pumps are effective in areas with a high water table. It is an equipment that helps remove water logged in a sump basin.

The right pumps to choose for dewatering

Dewatering a flood-prone area is quite challenging and hence your choice of pumps must be very careful. We at VEMC offer a wide range of dewatering pumps that can help you deal with the menace of inundation especially if you’re located in a low-lying area. Our Eterna CW/BW series for instance is a market leader thanks to its powerful performance, massive capacity and robust design. It offers a head of up to 70 meters and is specially suited for dewatering trenches, pits and foundations. It has especially found enormous use during the monsoon season, and has been a favourite of municipalities, builders and mall-owners.

However, in case flooding is frequent, it is best to go with permanent dewatering systems. These provide continuous drainage using systems like:

  1. Subsurface drainage systems
  2. Deep well dewatering systems
  3. Interceptor drains
  4. Tidal gates and flood barriers
  5. Stormwater management systems
  6. Retention and detention ponds

For more information on how to deal with flooding in your basement, parking lot or construction site, call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We at VEMC are the leading industrial water pumps dealers in Mumbai with years of experience and expertise in the field of pumping.

Maintenance techniques for borewell submersible pumps

by vemcoblogs -
Kirloskar pump distributor

If you own a submersible pump, you have made a substantial investment in your fluid management operations. However, you must ensure to get the most out of it, and extend the benefits that accrue from it for as long as possible. For this, proper maintenance of your submersible pump is crucial. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump distributor based in Mumbai, and in this blog we talk about the maintenance of your borewell submersible pump.

Why pump maintenance is important

For starters, there are three main reasons why you must not neglect your pumps when it comes to regular and timely maintenance:

  1. Preventing downtime: A proactive preventive maintenance of all your pumps is necessary to avoid sudden breakdowns which can cause serious losses not in equipment, money and business terms, especially if a significant part of your operations directly depends on your pumps.
  2. Ensuring efficiency: Pumps that are maintained regularly tend to be more energy efficient. This means lower energy consumption, more savings and environment-friendly pumping operations.
  3. Extending lifespan: By maintaining your pump regularly you can extend its lifespan by a significant period of time. This means your pump will be in service longer, and will not require replacement sooner. This saves lump-sum costs for your business and bolsters your contribution to circular economy.

Key maintenance tasks

When it comes to maintaining your pump, have a checklist of the following important tasks ready:

  1. Check the pump overall for any leakages. In particular, check the gaskets and make sure they do not have any oil leakages.
  2. Check if the hydraulic governors are functioning properly.
  3. Clean the oil bulbs and level windows of the pump.
  4. Check if there has been any damage due to excessive pump vibrations.
  5. Inspect the suction, discharge and head of the pump.
  6. Do the overspeed test on the pump.
  7. Check the seal chamber for any pitting and scoring.
  8. Prevent corrosion by applying a rust-preventive coat.
  9. Inspect the axial float of the pump.
  10.  Check the coupling alignment of the pump.
  11.  Check the alignment of the pump shaft.
  12. Change oil in the bearing system.

Scheduling your pump maintenance

Some issues can be checked visually and resolved on a daily basis such as clearing debris on or around the pump or checking for leaks. However, pump maintenance must also take place over a longer time horizon, that is monthly, quarterly and yearly basis. Depending upon the conditions in which your pumps operate, make a checklist of daily, monthly, quarterly and yearly maintenance tasks for your pumps. This will balance out the cost and effectiveness of your maintenance effort.

Maintaining your pump by carrying out scheduled tasks could seem quite complicated. To gain more clarity about issues related to pump maintenance, feel free to get in touch with us by calling on 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We at VEMC are a leading Kirloskar pump distributor based in Mumbai with over 70 years of rich experience in pumping.

Effective solutions for dewatering high-rise building basements

by vemcoblogs -

In areas with high water table, constructing a building can be quite challenging due to nuisance seepage. In fact flooding of basements could also cause some very serious issues like instability and even the collapse of the excavation. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar water pump dealer based in Mumbai, and in this blog, we take you through the effective solutions for dewatering high-rise building basements.

Challenges of dewatering deep basements

  • There could be sudden flooding due to inflow of water from layers of rocks or soil.
  • Seepage erosion or instability of the excavation site could pose serious risks.
  • Base heave or piping failure could result due to groundwater uplift pressures.
  • The retaining structures of the excavation such as concrete walls could come under pressure due to excessive hydrostatic loads.

Factors to consider when choosing dewatering pumps for high-rises

  1. Gravity and friction: To determine the pump size, consider where the water is to be pumped from and where it is going. Your pump must overcome both gravity as well as the frictional force along the length of the pipes.
  1. Longevity: Consider whether the pump will be able to perform consistently in conditions of floods. While ordinary pumps may crumble under pressure, dewatering pumps are typically highly water resistant and tend to have low wear and tear.
  2. Portability: For dewatering the excavation site fully, the pumps need to be moved around and hence must be portable. This can often result in rough physical handling which can only be survived by pumps with robust construction and design.
  3. Maintenance: Dewatering basements takes an enormous amount of time and effort, and also requires the engagement of dewatering pumps for prolonged periods of time. This naturally makes it difficult to maintain these pumps. When choosing a dewatering pump, prefer the ones with low maintenance requirements.

Different dewatering system configurations

  1. Wellpoints: In this configuration, wells are dug all round the excavation site and submersible pumps are installed in the shaft of each well. These pumps are then connected to a header pipe and groundwater is drawn up and discharged.
  1. Deepwells: Quite simply, a single or multiple wells are dug and submersible pumps are installed in each shaft to draw up water. These are best suited for deep excavations which require the removal of huge volumes of water.
  2. Flood control: This is a set of techniques which are used to prevent flooding of a basement or excavation site. It could mean digging tunnels or mine work. Site managers must have a range of pumps which can displace high volumes of water.

Dicharge management and environmental regulations

When dewatering a site, it is necessary to have an effective and well chalked out Dewatering Management Plan (DMP) for successfully dewatering the site while obeying the environmental regulations. Discharge monitoring for instance is the systematic measurement of quality and quantity of water being drawn and released into the environment. It could contain harmful pollutants like chemicals, heavy metals and suspended solids.
To know more about the effective dewatering solutions, get in touch with us by calling on 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We at VEMC are the top-notch Kirloskar water pump dealer based in Mumbai.

5 reasons to choose LD series direct drive reciprocating air compressor

by vemcoblogs -

While most people are aware of rotary screw compressors and piston air compressors, there is another classification on the basis of how these are driven: Belt-driven and Direct Drive air compressors. The former has a V-shaped belt to drive the compressor through a pulley system while the latter are pulled directly by a crankshaft connected to the motor. VEMC is a leading air compressor dealers in Mumbai, and in this blog we talk about the 5 top reasons to choose the LD series Direct Drive reciprocating air compressor. 

  1. Direct drive compressors are better any day

For starters, direct drive air compressors have fewer component parts as compared to the belt-driven compressors. This means lesser wear and tear, lower costs of maintenance and a longer lifespan. These can also handle a much wider range of temperature as compared to belt-driven air compressors.

  1. ELGi LD series offers longer lifespan

The ELGi LD series is known for its long lifespan, thanks to its robust construction. It has a unique integrated drive with compact top block design and is built with cast iron and forged steel components. The optimised design of piston and wings offers a longer life. Its stainless steel valve plates are maintenance-free and ensure the pump is highly reliable.

  1.  Energy savings 

The pump has a common cooling fan which improves the efficiency and saves energy significantly. With the provision of running the top block independently, the pump is able to provide compressed air based on demand. The low operational speed produced using the highly efficient IE2 6-pole motor also contributes significantly to energy savings.

  1. Better safety and heat management

ELGi LD series compressors ensure safety by using the ASME designed receiver tank. It is also equipped with a starter and pressure switch with proven reliability. The larger aluminium inter and after coolers offer 44% more heat transfer and thus better cooling of the air compressor.

  1. Sustainable and environment-friendly

ELGi LD series compressors are in tune with the spirit of sustainability in a number of ways. Longer lifespan, energy efficiency and lower service costs are some prime features which substantiate its sustainable claims. However, the compressors also produce low noise levels which makes these a favourite, whether on the factory floor or in residential areas.

ELGi’s LD series compressors are clearly a pathbreaking innovation in the evolution of air management. These are highly suited for applications in rubber, metal, garage, plastics and woodworking industries, which typically required high-performing piston compressors to meet fluctuating air needs.
If you need more information on the ELGi LD series or any of our other air compressors, feel free to get in touch with our experts by calling on 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We at VEMC are one of the leading air compressor dealers in Mumbai with a proven track record of high quality air management solutions. No matter which industry you are in, VEMC is one electromechanical brand you can always rely on.

Benefits of using water level sensors and alarms with borewell submersible pumps to prevent dry running and potential saving

by vemcoblogs -

If you own a submersible pump, you must be aware of the risks of running it dry. It can potentially damage the mechanical seal, the motor and the other internal parts of a pump, besides raising your energy costs significantly. This makes it important to keep tabs on the water levels inside your pump and makes water level sensors and alarms highly useful. We at VEMC are one of the leading water pump dealers based in Mumbai, and in this blog we talk about how sensors and alarms can prevent dry running and accrue potential savings from your pumping operations. 

What is a water level indicator sensor?

With the rising awareness about monitoring your pump performance and health, sensors are becoming widely popular pieces of equipment. Submersible pumps typically have water level indicator sensors which indicates when water levels drop below a certain mark to require corrective action. Usually a combination of high and low sensors are used to indicate both high as well as low levels of water. With the advent of Internet of Things (IoT) technology, these sensors have become more reliable and real-time.

Water pump alarms

Submersible pumps are used across homes and business facilities. It is always important to keep track of the water levels that submersible pumps draw upon to prevent dry running and resulting damage to pumps. For specifically this purpose, pump alarms are used. They simply warn a user when the water has reached a certain level to turn off the pump well in time.

Risks of running a pump dry

Dry running is a situation in which a pump operates without adequate fluid present inside. 

  • Dry running can cause cavitation and serious damage to the internal parts of a pump such as gears, casings and seals.
  • It could cause leakage of the liquid being pumped.
  • There will be greater wear and tear of parts and thus a rise in maintenance and spare part bills.
  • Apart from all the wear and tear, dry running can lead to loss of energy, power, pressure and increased noise.
  • It also leads to an increase in sluggishness and a drop in pump performance.

How sensors and alarm systems lead to cost savings

It is quite clear, that running a pump dry can significantly raise the costs of operating a pump, whether in terms of drop in efficiency or increased maintenance costs. But having a good alarm system or sensor in place can effectively alert the user whenever the water levels in the pump are low. This will significantly reduce the incidence of dry running the pump, along with the costs associated with it.
For more information on pump sensors and alarm systems, feel free to get in touch with VEMC by calling on 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are one of the leading water pump dealers based in Mumbai, with vast experience in the pumping industry.

Difference between oil lubricated and oil-free piston and screw compressor

by vemcoblogs -

If you wish to purchase an air compressor, you could be faced with choosing between and oil-lubricated and oil-free compressor. Both have their pros, cons and suitabilities for different types of tasks and industries. VEMC is the leading ELGi screw compressor dealer in Mumbai, and in this blog, we tell you about the major differences between these two types of air compressors.

Piston vs screw air compressors

Before we go to the oil-lubricated and oil-free compressors, lets first talk about the difference between piston and screw compressors. The main difference lies in the way these compress the air. While a piston compressor use a piston driven by a crankshaft, a screw compressor uses two meshing helical screws. 

Role of oil in air compressors

Primarily, oil in air compressors acts as a coolant to dissipate the heat generated in the process of compression. It also acts as a lubricant as an air compressor has lots of moving parts which constantly rub against each other, causing friction and wear and tear. Thirdly, air compressor oil seals the compression chamber, thus also acting as a sealant. 

Pros and cons

Now that we know the role oil plays in an air compressor, lets jump to the pros and cons that oil-lubricated and oil-free compressors bring to the table.

Oil-lubricated compressors

ProsCons
1. These require very little maintenance and resolving technical issues is usually quite simple.1. These leave traces of oil which can cause problems in certain sensitive operations.
2. These tend to have a longer lifespan.2. These are often bulky, take up a lot of space, and are difficult to move around.
3. They produce very little heat or noise.
4. These are capable of performing heavy duty work and can be used in extreme conditions.

Oil-free compressors

ProsCons
1. They’re usually smaller in size and thus quite easy to move around.1. These generate more heat and noise.
2. They can deliver clean compressed air without any traces of oil.2. These compressors have more maintenance requirements.
3. These compressors require zero manual lubrication.3. They have a short lifespan as compared to oil-lubricated compressors. 
4. They are less costly than oil-lubricated air compressors.4. Unlike oil-lubricated compressors, these are not suited for heavy duty operations.

Which type of air compressor is best suited for your industry?

In operations and industries where slightest contamination can be problematic, oil-free compressors are the best choice. These include industries like:

  1. Paper
  2. Food and beverage
  3. Pharmaceuticals
  4. Electricals

However, in case there is no contamination risk as such, oil-lubricated compressors are any day a great choice, as these have low maintenance, longer lifespan, and produce less noise and heat.

Still not sure which compressor is the right choice for your business? Free free to get in touch with VEMC by calling us on 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading ELGi screw compressor dealer based in Mumbai.

Selecting the Right Air Compressor for Tire Inflation: Balancing Power and Portability

by vemcoblogs -

Table Of Content

Selecting the Right Air Compressor for Tire Inflation: Balancing Power and Portability

Air compressors are multi-purpose equipment and are put to a wide range of uses at home, businesses and factories. For instance, given the power they generate, they can be used for inflating your car tires to maintain an optimum air pressure. However, it is important to know which air compressor is right for which type of tire. VEMC is the top compressor dealer in Mumbai, and in this blog, we tell you how to select the right air compressor for inflating your car tires.

Factors to consider when choosing a tire inflator

  1. Flow rate: This refers to the volume of air that will be compressed and pushed into a tire during a certain span of time. If your vehicle has large tires, it is advisable to use an air compressor with a higher flow rate. Pick-up trucks and SUVs typically require inflators with higher flow rates.
  2. Maximum pressure: Bigger tires can take too long to inflate if your air compressor isn’t generating enough air pressure. Look for a compressor that can offer a pressure of 100-150 PSI to fill your tires fast. This is especially helpful if you’re running a car workshop or a tire factory. 
  3. Portability: Air compressors that operate wirelessly are more handy and portable as compared to the wired ones. These run on rechargeable batteries and do not require any external power supply. These are the best choice and provide a lot of freedom to users if they need to move around too much to inflate a number of vehicles.
  4. Power source: Inflators can either be electric or battery-operated. The latter are more flexible to use as they can be moved around without hassles. However, for longer operations at one location, some users may prefer an electric tire inflator.

Selecting the right balance between power and portability

When it comes to selecting the right air compressor, power and portability appear to be the most visible trade-off. For instance, what typically determines the output of an air compressor is its tank. Bigger the tank, more air it can store and greater will be its productivity. However, it will lower the portability of the air compressor as it may make it bigger and heavier. 

In case you wish to move or travel around with your air compressor, portability becomes an important feature to consider. However, if most of your operations are stationary, it would be much better to look for higher capacity and power.

Safety precautions for tire inflation

Tire inflation can be a slightly dicey task if the right precautions aren’t taken:

  1. It must only be performed by trained personnel.
  2. Read and follow all the product warnings and procedures on your inflator.
  3. Always use inflation cages/restraining devices.
  4. Always center the wheel in an upright position inside an inflation cage.
  5. Wear adequate protective gear while inflating the tires.
  6. Never stand in the trajectory zone.

For more on using your air compressors for inflating your tires, feel free to call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the leading ELGi dealer in Mumbai with a rich experience of over 70 years in the industry.

Understanding Pump Curves

by vemcoblogs -

Table Of Content

Understanding Pump Curves

Before investing in a centrifugal pump, it is essential that you understand your requirements and make sure the pump is able to meet them effectively. This is where pump curves come in. Typically, pump curves include performance curves, horsepower and the NPSH needed. VEMC is one of the leading industrial water pumps dealers in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you all you need to know to understand pump curves.

Definition and basic information displayed on a pump curve

To put it quite simply, a pump curve is a graph that displays the flow rate, head (pressure), efficiency and operating range of a centrifugal pump. Typically, the data is plotted between the flow rate (X-axis) and the head (Y-axis). With an increase in the flow rate, the head decreases gradually. 

Using a pump curve to select the right pump

A pump head signifies the difference between a pump’s inlet and outlet pressure and depends upon pipe designs and configuration. With the increase in the pressure of a centrifugal pump, there is a decrease in the discharge flow with the output dropping to zero. When there is no head to work against, maximum possible output can be achieved within the constraints of the pump design, rotation and impeller speed. The pump curve specifies the range of performance of a pump between these two points.

Performance of a pump can be modified by using a different impeller or operating the pump at varying rotational speeds. A ‘tombstone’ chart is usually used to display the possible range of performance of a particular pump. The upper line of each segment is the pump curve at a particular speed, impeller size and design.

Reading and interpreting pump curve data

Being able to read an interpret pump curve data is necessary to predict the performance of your pump in different operating conditions. Here’s how you can read a pump curve:

  1. Start by identifying the main components of the curve like flow rate and head.
  2. Get acquainted with the performance curve that represents your pump’s head at various flow rates.
  3. Find the duty point, that is, where the system curve intersects with the pump performance curve.
  4. Understand the power curve that represents the electricity consumption of the pump.
  5. Find out the ‘efficiency islands’, that is, zones of maximum efficiency of the pumps.

Limitations of pump curves

While pump curves are theoretically great to predict your pump performance and also select the right pump for your tasks, in real-world situations, things can be slightly different. Factors like low flow operation, bearing failures, cavitation, seal breakage etc. can significantly affect and alter your pump’s performance.

Despite these limitations, a pump curve is an extremely useful tool if you are in the pumping industry. For more on pump performance curves, feel free to get in touch with VEMC by calling on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are one of the leading industrial water pumps dealers in Mumbai.

Air Compressor Noise Reduction: Strategies for Quieter Operation in Residential and Industrial Settings

by vemcoblogs -
ELGi compressor dealer in Mumbai

Table Of Content

Air Compressor Noise Reduction: Strategies for Quieter Operation in Residential and Industrial Settings

While air compressors are a great source of power across industries and business facilities, these could often disturb the tranquility of a residential house. In these settings, it is necessary that the right strategies for noise-free operation are put in place. VEMC is the leading ELGi compressor dealer in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you all about reducing the noise produced by your air compressor.

Understanding the sources of noise in air compressors

Before we take action against the noise, it is necessary to understand where it is coming from. The most common sources of noise in an air compressor are:

  1. Intake: The intake of air by a compressor can produce noise due to shifts in pressure or turbulent torrents entering your air compressor.
  2. Discharge: Just as air entering your compressor forcefully produces noise, the compressed air pushed out through the discharge valve can also produce a significant amount of noise.
  3. Motor: Over a period of time, due to friction, wear and tear, or lack of lubrication, the motor of your air compressor can also start making noise.
  4. Vibration: An air compressor is a system of moving parts which can rub against each other during operations, creating a lot of vibration and noise. It may also be caused by simpler reasons like unsteady floor where the compressor rests.

Strategies for reducing air compressor noise

  1. Enclosures: If your compressor is producing noise beyond your tolerance levels, you can simply cut it off from the rest of your home or factory floor by building a physical enclosure around it. Soundproofing the walls of the enclosure can also go a long way in absorbing the noise.
  2. Silencers: Air compressor silencers or mufflers are effective devices available in the market which greatly help reduce the noise produced by an air compressor.
  3. Sound-absorbing material: Unlike steel or concrete, sound-absorbing material absorb rather than reflect the noise produced by a compressor. These include acoustic panels, foam or wood. 
  4. Proper installation location: Installing the compressor in a separate dedicated room can help prevent the noise from affecting the rest of the house or factory. Place the compressor away from walls and corners to prevent the noise from rebounding and amplifying.

Regulations and standards for noise levels

Noise pollution is a massive concern when you’re investing in an air compressor for your home or factory. When buying a compressor in India, you must be aware of the regulations and standards set as per the Noise Pollution (Regulation & Control) Rules, 2000. Here are the noise levels acceptable in various settings as per the rules:

Area codeCategory of Area / ZoneLimits in dB(A) Leq
Day TimeNight Time
(A)Industrial area7570
(B)Commercial area6555
(C)Residential area5545
(D)Silence Zone5040

Advanced Monitoring and Diagnostics for Solar Panel Performance Analysis

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Advanced Monitoring and Diagnostics for Solar Panel Performance Analysis

Solar energy is gaining steady prominence as one of the most preferred sources of renewable energy across the world. However, to get the maximum out of your investment in solar power systems, it is necessary to keep track of all its critical parameters. Advanced monitoring and diagnostics enable you to do exactly that, for zeroing in on issues and taking timely corrective action. VEMC is a leading solar EPC company based in Mumbai, and in this blog, we tell you all you need to know about performance analysis of your solar power system.

Benefits of advanced monitoring systems

  1. Identify performance issues early: Advanced monitoring and diagnostics technology acts as an early warning system for any performance-related issues which could lead to lower productivity and efficiency.
  2. Optimise system operation: The data collected by advanced mentoring and diagnostics system enables users to zero in on any system issues and take corrective course to optimise system operation.
  3. Maximise energy production: With advanced monitoring systems, users receive a stream of continuous and uninterrupted data which helps keep track of the energy produced by the panels. As soon as deviation is noticed in the production, it could point towards issues such as accumulation of dust, shading of the panels or bird droppings which act as barriers to the sunlight and reduce the energy produced. With timely action, energy production can be maximised. 

Types of data collected by monitoring systems

Monitoring systems keep a track of a wide range of relevant parameters which are critical indicators of your solar power systems’ performance, efficiency and productivity.

  1. Power output: This is one of the most significant parameters that users must track throughout the lifespan of their solar power project. A steady power output at peak levels indicates a healthy solar power system while deviations may signify its decline.
  2. Voltage: This is another important parameter that must be tracked continuously. It also indicates the productivity of your system.
  3. Current: A monitoring system typically has a current sensor that keeps track of the current generated by your solar power system.
  4. Temperature: Solar power systems are known to operate at an optimum temperature. Extremes of temperatures can lead to a reduction in the productivity of your solar power system.
  5. Irradiance: Greater the irradiance received at the surface of the panels, more will be the electricity generation. Suboptimal irradiance may indicate shade due to newly-grown foliage, dust, debris or simply wrong positioning of the panels.

Using data analytics to track performance

Monitoring and diagnostics is all about collecting and analysing data. This is especially useful for identifying performance trends, detecting anomalies and diagnosing potential problems. Analysing data has an important role to play in preventative maintenance, avoiding downtime, and prolonging the lifespan of your solar power system.

For more on solar power system monitoring and diagnostics, feel free to call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading solar EPC company based in Mumbai.

Solar Panel Cleaning and Maintenance: Methods and Scheduling

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Solar Panel Cleaning and Maintenance: Methods and Scheduling

If you own a solar power system, you would realise that it is all about exposing the maximum surface of the panels to the sun for maximum possible time. What can really affect its performance and efficiency is barriers like dust and debris. This makes it extremely important to clean and maintain the panels regularly. We at VEMC are the leading solar panel consultants and installers based in Mumbai, and in this blog we talk about cleaning and maintaining your solar panels.

Factors affecting cleaning frequency

While it is necessary to clean your solar panels regularly, it cannot be feasible in terms of cost and labour to do so too frequently. Here are some decisive factors that determine how frequently you must clean your panels:

  1. Environmental conditions: The larger environmental context you are located in is the foremost factor to determine your cleaning frequency. For instance, you may need to clean the panels more often if you’re located in the middle of a busy urban centre or near a factory, as compared to a bucolic rural setting.
  • Dust accumulation: How much dust accumulates on your panels in a given setting will also determine the cleaning frequency. Dust could be raised by heavy traffic or industrial processes like mining or stone crushing.
  • Bird droppings: Another widely noticed barrier to sunlight shining on your panels is bird droppings. If your facility has a lot of trees nearby, it is quite likely that birds would fly over your panels and pound them with their droppings. This will make regular cleaning necessary.

Safe and effective cleaning methods

Cleaning your solar panels is quite simple and straightforward but for the sake of longevity, you must keep a few guidelines in mind.

  1. Use water and mild detergent: Use de-ionised, rain or tap water to clean your panels. Make sure the water is clean to prevent any mud or contaminants from remaining behind on the panels. Do not use any abrasive, acidic or alkalic cleaners on your panels. A regular mild detergent should do.
  2. Specialised cleaning brushes: These days, a lot of sellers are offering brushes made specifically for solar panels. These are often motorised and can clean in both linear and circular motion. Most importantly, they clean without leaving any marks or scratches on the surface.
  • Robotic cleaners: These are automated systems used to clean solar panel surfaces. These operate by using a combination of mechanical and smart technologies to clean efficiently. These are especially useful when your solar panels are out of reach or located too precariously for manual cleaning.

Recommended cleaning schedules

Solar panels must typically be cleaned twice a year. However, regular inspections are necessary to take more precise decisions and get maximum efficiency. Besides, the above-mentioned factors will also play a key role in scheduling your cleaning.

To get the most out of your solar power systems, cleaning and maintaining them is essential. We at VEMC offer comprehensive solar EPC contracts to our clients which cover everything your solar power system needs post purchase. For more on this, feel free to call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

Understanding Priming Requirements for Centrifugal Pumps

by vemcoblogs -
Kirloskar pump dealer

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Understanding Priming Requirements for Centrifugal Pumps

If you own a centrifugal pump, you must be aware of the process of priming it. Priming simply means filling up the pump casing with the liquid that is to be pumped. This removes any air from the casing and creates a seal between the casing and the impeller. Depending on the type of the pump you’re using, priming can be manual or automatic. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump dealer based in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you all you need to know about priming your centrifugal pump.

Understanding priming

Centrifugal pumps have a priming chamber which is filled with a liquid to expel air and create a vacuum. This helps prevent cavitation of the pump while improving its efficiency. As any Kirloskar pump distributor may tell you, a well-primed pump lasts longer, consumes lesser energy and offers optimum performance.

Different priming methods

  1. Gravity-fed priming: In this type of priming, the casing is filled using the force of gravity, that is, it simply flows downward into the priming chamber without any consumption of external energy.
  2. Vacuum priming: In this type, the vacuum priming system pulls water into the pump allowing it to start. This happens as a result of creation of a vacuum from the top of the impeller down to the level of the water source.
  • Flooding: In this type of priming, the pump is completely flooded with the liquid. However, since these types of pumps cannot handle air, gases or vapours even for a short period of time, there’s always a risk of the liquid being interrupted or bearings getting damaged.

Selecting the appropriate priming method

The right priming method depends upon a number of factors such as:

  1. Pump type: When it comes to priming a pump, there is no one-size-fits-all. Different types of pumps require different priming methods and your Kirloskar pump dealer can provide the right information on this.
  2. Installation: Some pump installation systems may make certain priming methods difficult or impossible. For instance, gravity-fed priming may not be possible for all types of installations.
  3. Operating conditions: Before selecting your priming method, it is important to consider the operating conditions of your pump. These include system designs, constraints, type of liquid to be pumped etc.

Troubleshooting common priming issues

Some of the most common priming issues that customers approach Kirloskar pump distributors with, are:

  1. Air leaks: Air leaks can cause your pump to lose the prime or not prime at all. To fix this, check the pump lid and o-ring for any damage. Even debris or improperly sealed lids or o-rings can cause air leaks.
  2. Insufficient liquid levels: Low water levels can cause a pump to lose the prime. Make sure that the water level is above the minimum level required for operation.
  • Pump not self-priming: This could be caused due to a suction leak. Alternatively, the suction line is too long or its diameter is too wide. To prevent this, use a cling wrap around each joint.

Priming is one of the most crucial aspects of pumping. For more information on priming, feel free to call VEMC at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

Understanding Air Compressor Duty Cycle

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Understanding Air Compressor Duty Cycle

If you plan to procure a new air compressor, you will inevitably come across a specification called Duty Cycle in percentage terms. While a 100% duty cycle may be emphatically advertised by a seller and even seem alluring, you will require a more nuanced and in-depth understanding of the concept. VEMC is one of the leading ELGi air compressor dealers in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you all you need to know about air compressor duty cycles.

Defining a Duty Cycle

The duty cycle of an air compressor simply refers to the time taken to fill its air tank. Every time the tank of an air compressor is full, the pump stops and then starts again. This is known as the run-time versus rest time of a compressor. However, in case a compressor doesn’t have a tank, then its duty cycle will always be 100%.

A compressor with 25% duty cycle means the compressor will have 45 minutes of downtime every hour and be active for only 15 minutes. Likewise, for a compressor with 50% duty cycle will have a downtime for 30 minutes and be active for 30 minutes.

Factors influencing duty cycle selection

  • Air demand: If your air demand is high, you will require an air compressor with longer duty cycle.
  • System size: A larger system will require a longer duty cycle and vice versa.
  • Pressure requirements: Duty cycle also depends upon the pressure required for your task. This means more the pressure required, more should be the duty cycle.

Selecting the right compressor based on duty cycle

Air compressor with intermittent duty cycles

Applications like filling a tyre, powering mechanical tools like wrenches and nailers, or DIY home projects can make use of compressors with intermittent duty cycles.

Air compressor with continuous duty cycles

Applications like powering tools in electronics, furniture and automobile industries, and operating conveyor belt systems use compressors with continuous duty cycles.

A duty cycle can be a critical determining factor when it comes to selecting the right compressor. However, you must be mindful of a few considerations.

  • Avoiding overloading: While it may be quite tempting to select a compressor with highest possible duty cycle, over-cycling can be problematic. Over-cycling could seriously impact the health of your system and reduce its lifespan significantly due to wear and tear. It also reduces the efficiency of the system as quick cycling consumes more energy.
  • Ensuring sufficient capacity for peak demand: When the demand of compressed air is high, you must have adequate capacity to match it. You can use a larger storage tank or try a wide pressure band to ensure this.

Duty cycles are clearly a significant factor to determine the right air compressor type for the right task. For more information on duty cycles or any other air compressor parameter, feel free to call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the top ELGi reciprocating compressor and screw compressor dealers based in Mumbai.

Pump Performance Testing of Centrifugal Pumps

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Pump Performance Testing of Centrifugal Pumps

Centrifugal pumps are performance tested to verify their design and ensure they match the standards of mechanical integrity. Under controlled conditions, a centrifugal pump is tested to prove its compliance with client and industry standards. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump authorised dealer based in Mumbai, and in this blog we tell you all you need to know about pump performance testing.

Key parameters measured during testing

The most important parameters checked during a performance test are:

  1. Flow rate: This simply represents the volume of the liquid that the pump is able to displace.
  2. Head: This is the pressure which the pump is able to generate and will naturally also impact the flow rate.
  3. Power consumption: Both flow rate and head are functions of the power consumption. While doing performance testing of centrifugal pumps, power consumption must be carefully tracked to keep electric bills at minimum levels.
  4. Efficiency: If the pump is operating with limited consumption of electricity, it indicates optimum efficiency levels.

Purpose and benefits of performance testing

  1. Testing mechanical integrity: Performance testing provides insights with respect to the mechanical integrity of the pump. This means that the tested pump has no mechanical problems, say due to high bearing temperatures, vibration levels or leakage of seals and gaskets.
  2. Checking the performance: The pump displays its ability to offer consistent performance. The performance curve is plotted between capacity (X) and head (Y) and enough data must be collected to complete the curve. Vibration is also observed at each data point to ensure it stays in control in real life conditions.
  • NPSH test: This determines the suction performance of a pump. As part of an NPSH test, pressure is reduced until the pump enters the onset of cavitation. Data is collected till the total head begins to decline while capacity is maintained at a constant rate.
  • Efficiency: As energy prices soar, it is necessary to keep energy consumption at a minimum level. This will improve operational efficiency and also to reduce the carbon footprint of the business.

Different test standards and procedures

Certain industry standards are to be followed when testing a centrifugal pump. These are:

  • Hydraulic Institute (HI) “Centrifugal Pump Tests,” American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/HI 1.6-2000
  • American Petroleum Institute (API) Standard 610, 12th edition
  • American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Power Test Codes (PTC), ASME PTC 8.2-1990
  • HI “Vertical Pump Tests,” ANSI/HI 2.6-1994

Different standards have different testing procedures. For instance, API pumps measure 6 points while undertaking performance testing:

  1. Shut off point
  2. Minimum continuous stable flow
  3. An intermediate flow (flow between the minimum continuous stable flow to BEP/ rated)
  4. Between 95% and 99% of rated
  5. A point between rated and 105% of rated flow, BEP (if rated flow  is not within 5% of BEP),
  6. A point at the end of the allowable operatio

Performance testing can clearly help unearth a range of pump issues such as efficiency deviations, cavitation, excessive vibration etc. To know more about pump performance testing, call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading Kirloskar dealer in Mumbai.

Compressed Air System Piping: Design Considerations for Pressure Drop Reduction

by vemcoblogs -

Compressed air is a major source of power in an industrial setting. But to get the most out of your air compressor system, you need to make sure all the ancillaries are well-designed and installed. Piping is an essential support system which plays a huge role in how well your compressed air system performs overall. We at VEMC are a top-notch ELGi dealer in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you all you need to know about the design consideration of your piping to reduce the pressure drop in your air compressor system.

Factors contributing to pressure drop in piping

  1. Pipe diameter: This is one of the most obvious factors that impacts the pressure of the compressed air in the piping. Pipe diameter impacts the velocity of the air moving through the pipes. To put it simply, larger the pipe diameter, lesser will be the pressure for a given volume of air.
  2. Length of the pipe: Longer the pipe, greater will be the friction loss and hence lesser will be the pressure exerted by the compressed air. Pressure drop is thus directly proportional to the pipe length.
  3. Material: The friction that the moving air particles experience against the walls of the piping also contributes significantly to the drop in pressure. Thus, the material of the piping walls will also determine the extent of pressure drop.
  4. Fittings: How the piping is designed and fitted is an important factor that affects the drop in pressure. A highly complicated design with too many bends will reduce greater amount of air pressure as compared to a more straightforward one.

Strategies to minimise pressure drop

Now that we have understood what factors cause drop in pressure, let’s take a look at how to avoid or at least minimise it.

  1. Appropriate pipe sizing: Make sure the pipes are of the right size in terms of both length and diameter. Both long as well as broad pipes can cause unnecessary drop in pressure.
  2. Avoid unnecessary bends and restrictions: As much as possible, the piping design should be simple and straightforward. Too many bends and restrictions can also cause a drop in pressure due to greater friction.
  3. Use smooth-surfaced pipes: As mentioned above, friction of air particles with the internal surface of the pipes can also reduce the pressure of the compressed air. It is therefore advisable to use smooth-surfaced material for your piping.

It is quite clear that not only does the power and capacity of your air compressor matter but also the overall system and piping design. With the right piping design and installation, you can maintain optimum performance by reducing drop in pressure.

For more expert advice on your air compressor systems, feel free to call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We at VEMC are the leading ELGi compressor dealer in Mumbai with a wide array of air compressor options available to meet your needs.