Side Channel Pump for the Safe Transport of Ammonia

21.05.2021
Reliable pumping of low flow rates at high differential heads is the core competence of SERO PumpSystems, the recognized technology leader of side channel pumps. SERO‘s Model SEMA-S is a sealess, magnetically driven pump designed for the safe conveyance of ammonia and many other volatile process fluids.
Side Channel Pump for the Safe Transport of Ammonia

SERO PumpSystem’s self-priming side channel pump SEMA is the ideal solution for the reliable and efficient transport of ammoniak NH3. (Image source: SERO PumpSystems GmbH)

The leak-proof “mag-drive” sealing arrangement guarantees a high level of reliability and safety. The SEMA-S has extremely low NPSH requirements as well as high entrained gas capabilities to ensure maximum operational functionality. Pump users and operators will also benefit from SERO‘s modular design principle allowing for optimal adaptation of flow and head conditions.

For pumping services involving ammonia, a strong-smelling, toxic, colorless, water-soluble liquid, the SEMA-S sealless design provides a safe, environmentally sound solution. Depending upon the type of ammonia, aqueous or anhydrous, the materials of construction can be either ductile iron or all stainless steel.

The sealless magnetic coupling design eliminates the use of mechanical seals in the pump and the inherent problem of seal leaks and the release of fugitive emissions. Safety is greatly enhanced along with increased reliability.

The mag coupling creates contactless torque transmission from the motor to the pump via permanent magnets attached to the motor shaft and the pump shaft.  A containment can separates the magnets and enables the pump to be completely sealed off from the surrounding environment. The corrosion resistant sealless mag drive system ensures zero-leakage! Consequently, operating or service personnel are protected from exposure to ammonia and HSE concerns are thus eliminated.

A service where the SEMA-S can be utilized is pumping ammonia where the ammonia acts as a transport medium for hydrogen.  Given the rapid development of fuel cell technology, this application will gain new significance.  The SEMA-S hydraulic flow range of 0.3 m3/hr to 42 m3/hr with pressures up to 40 bar fits nicely into the fuel cell design criteria.

Low NPSH values simplify suction inlet design requirements
The Model SEMA-S has many unique capabilities and one of the most significant is its low NPSH requirements.  The low NPSH first stage impeller in conjunction with the liquid ring vacuum effects of the succeeding side channel stages, all work together to produce very low NPSH values and prevent cavitation.  Values as low as 0.35 m depending upon operational speed.  This allows for more flexibility in suction piping design and vessel or tank placement.  It can be exceedingly important when pumping volatile process fluids such as ammonia.

More articles on this topic

Editorial: How to Avoid This Vital Problem With Pumps

21.07.2022 -

Cavitation occurs in centrifugal pumps when the available net suction head (NPSHa) is lower than the required net suction head (NPSHr). This leads to the formation and accumulation of bubbles around the impeller eye, which then collapse, causing a series of mini-implosions and significant damage to both the impeller and the casing.

Read more

SRZS Side Channel Pump in CO Design

20.07.2022 -

Reliable handling of clean, solids-free fluids at low flow rates and high differential heads – this is what SERO’s side channel pumps are designed for. But SERO PumpSystems also offers a high-performance solution for liquid media that are not completely free of solids: the SRZS…CO side channel pump. It delivers full performance and highest levels of reliable long-term service even with abrasive microparticles in the flow.

Read more