Pump Control System Applications

Adjustable frequency drives (AFDs/VFDs) control pump motor speed to match demand. Slowing a pump even slightly can cut energy use dramatically, and drives also provide soft starts and process control.

Benefits for Pumps

• Energy savings – match pump speed to system demand
• Constant pressure control – booster and water systems
• Soft start and stop – reduce water hammer
• Pump protection – dry-run and overload detection
• Multi-pump control – alternate and stage pumps

Choosing a Drive

Size the drive to motor current and voltage. Pump-specific drives include PID control and pump features. Consider enclosures, filters and bypass options.

Centro supplies AFDs for pump control applications.

Related categories: Pump Control System Applications | Softstarts | Electric Motors | Pump Starter Panels

Pump soft starters gradually ramp motor voltage to cut starting current, torque spikes and water hammer. They're a cost-effective way to protect pumps, piping and electrical systems when speed control isn't needed.

Features

• Pump control algorithms – smooth start and stop curves
• Built-in bypass – reduce heat during running
• Motor protection – overload and phase loss
• Compact design – save panel space

Choosing a Soft Starter

Size by motor current and voltage, and select pump-specific stop control to cut water hammer. Consider ambient temperature and enclosure.

Centro supplies soft starters for pump applications.

Related categories: Pump Control System Applications | Electric Motors | Adjustable Frequency Drives | Electric Motor Controls

Electric motors power pumps of every type. Efficient, correctly sized motors cut energy costs and give long, reliable service.

Motor Options

• NEMA premium efficiency motors – lower operating cost
• TEFC and ODP enclosures – suit the environment
• Inverter-duty motors – VFD operation
• Close-coupled pump motors – JM and JP shafts
• Explosion-proof motors – hazardous locations

Choosing a Motor

Match horsepower, speed, voltage, frame and enclosure to the pump and environment. Use inverter-duty motors with VFDs.

Centro supplies electric motors for pump applications.

Related categories: Pump Control System Applications | Electric Motor Controls | Softstarts | Adjustable Frequency Drives

Pump starter panels control and protect pumps in water, wastewater, irrigation and industrial systems. A good panel handles starting, stopping, level or pressure control and alarms, and protects the motor from overloads and faults.

Panel Options

• Simplex and duplex panels – single pumps or alternating pump pairs
• Across-the-line starters – simple and economical
• Soft starter and VFD panels – reduce water hammer and save energy
• Float and transducer control – level-based pump operation
• NEMA 4X enclosures – for outdoor and wet locations

What to Specify

Provide the pump motor horsepower, voltage and phase, the number of pumps, the control method and alarm requirements. Include options such as run-time meters, seal-fail monitoring and remote communication. UL 508A panels make inspection approval easier.

Centro can help you specify pump starter panels for your pumping system.

Related categories: Pump Control System Applications | Adjustable Frequency Drives | Softstarts | Electric Motors

Electronic motor control is vital for modern pump systems, enhancing efficiency and reliability by managing motor speed, torque, and direction. Utilizing variable frequency drives (VFDs) and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) helps optimize energy consumption, reduce mechanical wear, and improve system protection across various applications, including industrial processes, water treatment, and HVAC systems.

How does a variable frequency drive (VFD) work in pump control?

A variable frequency drive (VFD) controls a pump by adjusting the motor's speed and torque to match what's needed. It takes the incoming AC power, converts it to DC, and then back to AC at the right frequency and voltage. By changing the frequency, the VFD can adjust the motor speed, and by controlling the voltage, it keeps the torque just right. This precise control helps improve energy efficiency, reduces wear and tear on the system, and keeps everything running smoothly.

How does programmable logic controllers (PLCs) play in pump motor control?

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are key to pump motor control because they automate and monitor the system. They can start and stop the pump, adjust the motor speed, and respond to different inputs and conditions. PLCs also detect faults, schedule operations, and optimize processes to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Their ability to handle complex control tasks makes them essential for keeping pump systems reliable and efficient.

Do you have questions regarding electronic motor control products for pumps?

Contact us to speak with a product expert to help you from product selection to answering questions about installation.

Related categories: Pump Control System Applications | Electric Motors | Softstarts | Adjustable Frequency Drives