MP 204 and Grundfos Utility Connect Restores Protein Plant Processing Operations

INTRODUCTION

Sometimes one of the most significant problems when working with pumps and pump systems is knowing and understanding factors in the environment that can influence pump performance.

SITUATION

A United States protein processing plant had a Grundfos booster system with CRE pumps, used for “spray chill” processes, that was shutting down intermittently when current and voltage thresholds were out of range. This impacted operations. Diagnostics were run on the system to determine the root cause. The customer initially suspected it was the Grundfos CRE because they could bypass the MLE Variable Frequency Drive and the motor “ran fine.” When their technician measured the voltage with a handheld multimeter it registered within range at 480V. The customer swapped out the MLE motor, thinking this would be the fix, but this also did not fix the problem. Thinking it might be the harmonics from other nearby motors, an input choke/filter was installed on the incoming power feed before the booster. When this also failed, they went with a different solution using tried and true Grundfos technology to help identify the problem.

SOLUTION

A Grundfos MP 204 pump protection device was added on GUC (Grundfos Utility Connect) that allowed for 24/7 voltage monitoring and alarm notifications. After six weeks, it was noticed the voltage would consistently read above 505V instead of maintaining at the optimal level of 480V. The customer consulted with the power company, who reported no issues with their incoming power feed coming into the plant. They then consulted with an electrician that found there was an issue with the incoming voltage being fed from a capacitor bank located within the plant. The electrical maintenance department shut off the capacitor bank, and the station began to operate at a much lower and cleaner incoming voltage.