Adjustable Speed Pump Control
Automated Electric Systems has been the leader in adjustable speed pump control since 1993. Once thought to be the control method of choice only for those with a large budget, it has now evolved into a standard that must be considered for any water pump application. Whether upgrading an existing pump station or planning a new installation, we can provide you with valuable design tips from pump selection to control package options to fit your budget.
Method of operation:
With adjustable speed drive (ASD) control, pump RPM is modulated to provide the correct amount of water for any demand. For example, if the setpoint discharge pressure of the system is set to 55 PSI, the pump will start running on a pressure drop of 6 PSI (49 PSI). Once running, the controller is adjusting the pump speed to match demands placed on the system while maintaining the pressure at a constant 54PSI. The pump will continue to run at flow rates from maximum pump capacities to as little as a minimum flow rate as determined by the pump curve. Once zero flow occurs the controller pressurizes the system to 56 PSI and decelerates to a stop, ready for the next pumping cycle.
Pump control panel units are built individually for each client's specific application. They can range from the basics in ASD control to fully "loaded" packages which incorporate multiple ASD units, operator interface terminals and control of remote devices associated with the pump station.
Advanced units become required where multiple pumps are used. Two pump systems are the most common but some station designs have included three, four or more pumps operated from one controller. Each controller is designed to the application from 5HP to as much as 1,600HP for large water transfer and irrigation. Features include automatic pump alternation, precise pressure control, extensive safeties and operator interface terminals.
The interface terminals provide data input for setpoint, timer settings and protection levels, as well as logging station events with time and date tags for trouble shooting and maintenance.
It takes dozens of individual components to complete the control package. All items used in our controllers are industry proven for quality. Brand names like Toshiba, Eaton, Benshaw, Omron, Red Lion, Cutler Hammer, Telemechanique, Wika, Wieland, and many more assure you that the package is the highest quality providing superior reliability and performance. We stand behind each panel / pump package with an 18 month warranty.
So why ASD control?
-Greatly extends pump & motor life
-Elimination of water hammer resulting from pump starts and stops
-True discharge pressure control
-Substantial energy savings at reduced flows:
| Speed |
Flow |
Power Required |
| 100% |
100% |
100% |
| 90% |
90% |
73% |
| 80% |
80% |
50% |
| 70% |
70% |
34% |
| 60% |
60% |
22% |
| 50% |
50% |
13% |
All pumps supplied are from the industry leader, Gould Pumps, for their exceptional quality of construction, high efficiencies and proven performance.
