Magnetic drive pump safety in spotlight

A system to enhance the safety and performance of magnetic drive pumps used in the local petrochemical, chemical and general industry markets has been launched.

Magnetic drive pumps are used in industries that handle hazardous and valuable liquids, where the prevention of leakage is paramount. KSB Pumps and Valves market area manager: petrochemicals and energy sub-Saharan Africa Fridah Magoro explains that these pumps traditionally use mechanical seals, often requiring double mechanical seals for extra protection against leaks. The double seals require an additional sealing system using buffer or barrier fluids to prevent the pumped liquid from escaping into the atmosphere. This method has a number of drawbacks, says Magoro, including the potential contamination of pumped fluid within pressurised systems and the added complexity and cost of maintaining the sealing system.

KSB has developed the MagnoProtect system which aims to enhance the reliability and safety of magnetic drive pumps by eliminating the need for traditional mechanical seals.

“Compliance with stringent industry standards and regulations is non-negotiable in chemical and petrochemical operations, and our MagnoProtect system ensures that our MagnoChem pumps meet the relevant international standards, including API 685 and ISO 5199. This compliance guarantees that the pumps are suitable for use in highly regulated environments, providing peace of mind to operators and plant managers,” says Magoro.

The new system incorporates a dual shell, or ‘can-design’, which provides an additional layer of security and leak prevention. The inner and outer shell is separated by a space which is filled with a monitoring liquid and maintained in a vacuum and a change in pressure in the space indicates a breach. The dual monitoring system is designed to ensure early detection and preventive maintenance, minimising the risk of hazardous leaks.

Magoro notes that the new design also features grooves that help reduce eddy current losses by up to 20% compared to previous models. This improvement helps enhance pump efficiency and saves energy, reducing overall operational costs. The modular assembly design enables quickly replacements, further minimising downtime.