Session Six: Pump Minimum Flow Protection Using Automatic Recirculation Valves

A major cause of pump damage is incorrect operation and specifically operation below minimum flow. Operating pumps below minimum flow leads to overheating, cavitation and loss of hydraulic balance. There are multiple ways of keeping a pump above its minimum flow rate these include using orifice plates in minimum flow lines and complex control valve systems. This paper will outline the operation of the Automatic Recirculation valve and compare with other traditional minimum flow techniques. The paper will show why the use of the Automatic Recirculation Valve is the best industry practice for pump minimum flow protection.