A 10 MGD water plant in rural Alabama draws water from a nearby well for storage in a reservoir prior to treatment and distribution. Several chemicals are used in the treatment process including sodium hypochlorite, fluoride, and alum. Wallace and Tiernan Encore 700 diaphragm style metering pumps dose these chemicals as needed. Sodium Hypochlorite is trucked in and stored in large tanks in the chemical building. Metering pumps are located on shelves beside the tanks.

Over time, the Encore 700 has lost its ability to self-prime, and when the tank level drops below 5 feet, the pumps do not operate. When the tank level reaches 5', the pumps stop pumping; however because there are no flow meters, it takes 2 hours or more for the problem to show up in residual analysis. Due to this suction problem and decreasing parts quality and availability, the plant decided it was time for a change. As is the case with many municipalities cost is an important factor when considering new equipment. Hose pump technology is inherently more expensive than diaphragm pumps, so Verder and our local distributor needed to provide a creative and economical solution.

Solution: Verderflex Dura 10 hose pump.

The Dura pump has no problem pulling suction lift up to 31' of water which is more than ample to drain the hypo tank entirely. Also, the Dura has only one wearing part – the hose. No more complicated repair kits with diaphragms, check balls and so on. Best of all, we kept cost to a minimum:

• The Dura 10 fit the same footprint as the Encore 700.
• Reused: Mounting shelf, platform, all suction and discharge piping and appurtenances like gauges and valves
• We were able to reuse the motor and VFD as well saving not only equipment cost but also costs associated with hiring an electrician and SCADA person.

Diaphragm metering pumps are everywhere and need to be upgraded to premium peristaltic technology from Verder. For more information, please watch this 2 minute video on YouTube. Call your Regional Sales Manager or Application Engineer today with your questions and opportunities.