Power plants worldwide can turn common water into consumable energy. These plants have complex systems that pull water from rivers, lakes, and aquifers by utilizing a series of pumps, clarifiers, and filters. Some of the pumped water is converted into steam energy through specific processes, while a vast majority of water is used for cooling purposes.
The Case for Metering Pumps
Different pump systems are essential for these types of hydroelectric power generation plants. Metering pumps are commonly used for precise chemical dosing at specific stages of the power generation process. Any water traveling through a boiler must be ultra-pure before turning it into steam energy, ensuring cleaner and more efficient energy production is used for millions of homes, businesses, and municipalities.
Ferric sulfate and sulfuric acid are two of the standard chemical compounds in power generation facilities. Ferric sulfate is crystalline salt that acts as a coagulant and removes solid particulates from the water. Sulfuric acid controls the pH balance (alkalinity) of the water. Unfortunately, as we all know, it is a very toxic and corrosive acid.
Chemical compounds like ferric sulfate and sulfuric acid are sensitive and must be dosed accurately within the power production process. Hydraulically actuated diaphragm metering pumps are critical during this process specifically, as they’re designed for careful metering and chemical dosing applications. Metering pumps ensure properly timed dosing, as well as the desired concentration and flow rates of volatile chemicals to produce water purity levels required in power generation.
Metering control is also important in the cooling processes of power generation. Certain amounts of water (generally treated with specific chemicals) need to be released at specific stages before the water vapor comes cleanly out of the cooling towers.
How Do Metering Pumps Work?
Metering pumps can come in different configurations, such as peristaltic pumps, air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pumps, and hydraulically actuated diaphragm metering pumps. With each, the purpose is the same—adjustable flows at any given period and accurate chemical dosing.
Milton Roy Metering Pumps
The power generation industry often looks to Milton Roy, one of the world’s leading metering pump manufacturers, ideal for chemical dosing, cooling, and other vital applications. Milton Roy has a proven track record for quality pumps and accessories, so when consistent and precise performance is what you crave, look no further.
Metering pump selection, configuration, installation and, operation takes time and research. The pump experts at DXP Pacific are familiar with selecting the perfect pump for an array of operations. Let us do the heavy lifting.
Call us today at (866) 472-3959.