Grundfos Presents Intelligent In-line Pump TPE3

They are less dependent on temperature than wet-running pumps and easily matched to the pumped liquid because of their design principle.

The efficiency of the new Grundfos TPE3 puts other in-line pumps in the shade. It combines unrivalled motor energy efficiency (the motor of the 3rd MGE generation is more efficient than the Super Premium IE4 requirements) with the efficiency of optimised hydraulics which are well above the industry standard: While the compulsory MEI minimum efficiency index is currently at 0.10, the TPE3 reaches an MEI value of > 0.70.

The additional installation of an integrated and patented differential pressure-/flow rate sensor, allows operators to benefit from huge cost savings compared to installing a voltage controlled version, as expressed in very short payback periods (less than 2 years) and in the following years due to high returns on capital.

Integrated heat energy monitor

The TPE3 also excels with a variety of intelligent features. For example TPE3 pumps are equipped with an integrated heat energy monitor (in conjunction with a temperature sensor in the return), which monitors the distribution and consumption of heat energy. In addition, the TPE3 determines power consumption based on the nominal flow rate using the built-in flow sensor. The heat energy monitor is advantageous for use of geothermal heat pumps, or in solar thermal applications, but also in conventional heating and air conditioning systems.

Smart regulation functions

The type of control can be selected from several variants enabling the TPE3 to adapt flexibly to requirements. Two control modes are particularly noteworthy: AutoAdapt und FlowAdapt. What s behind all this?

The AutoAdapt function: Unlike in conventional electronic controls, the TPE3 regularly checks system conditions and automatically adjusts to the proportional pressure curve. So the pump always runs according to the optimal characteristics and consumes no more energy than is really necessary. During commissioning, all the installer has to do is connect the power supply and the pump itself assumes the optimal setting. Even if the system conditions is not accurately known (for example, when replacing an existing pump), the AutoAdapt function adjusts the set-point of the pump automatically.

The FlowAdapt function: This is a combined function of AutoAdapt and FlowLimit. With FlowLimit you can specify a maximum value for the delivery rate. The pump continuously monitors the flow and prevents the exceeding of the maximum value. A separate valve is therefore unnecessary, and the monitoring also saves energy.

Further available regulation variants are e.g.: proportional pressure, constant pressure, constant characteristics, constant temperature and temperature difference. For data exchange, two digital inputs, two outputs, and two analogue inputs for connecting an external sensor or set-point adjustment are available. For connection to the BMS various CIM modules are provided that can be directly mounted in the control box of the 3rd generation MGE motor.

A pump which communicates

Every TPE3 comes with a host of intelligent communication features to ensure an effective system monitoring and optimum pump regulation.

The TPE3 has an internal bus communication via radio link (GeniAir), so cabling (e.g. for a double pump system) is superfluous. Using the built-in wizard, connection to the coupled pump is quickly and easily ensured. The two pumps are controlled jointly, either in cascade mode, alternating mode or duty/stand-by. Traditional GENIbus wire communication is still possible.

With the ‘Grundfos Go’ app, the installer has a plethora of options to configure or read the new MGE. All settings can be saved as a PDF document and sent via email. In the commissioning report PDF images of the smartphone camera and the signature of the customer can also be integrated.

The settings on the pump can also be stored in Grundfos Go, or prior configuration times restored. It is also possible to transfer the configuration of a pump to endless other pumps in a split second - that offers certainty, saves time and eliminates transcription errors.

Easy installation & commissioning

The TPE3 can not only claim to be the electronic benchmark - the developers have been thinking very practically: The cataphoresis surface treatment and the zinc phosphate coating not only provide excellent corrosion protection, the coatings also support hydraulic efficiency. The wiring box is located on the front to facilitate the work of the installer, and a single screw to clamp ring is used for the pump head adjustment. The display is intuitive to use, the Grundfos Eye provides visual indication of the pump status (running, ready, warning, alarm). Insulation shells are available from Grundfos as accessories for heating and air-conditioning applications.