5.1.3 Recovery by mechanical pumps

Figure 8 A : Condensate and                    Figure 8 B : Condensate and flash recovery using a steam operated pressure powered pump and flash vessel
flash steam recovery
by a flash jet pump

The use of steam operated mechanical pumps to recover condensate eliminates many of the issues associated with using centrifugal pumps. Such systems eliminate the requirement of intermediate collection / storage tanks, level control systems and standby centrifugal pumps making the recovery system compact and easier to implement.

Advantages of recovering condensate by mechanical pumps :

Energy Efficient

– As collection / storage tanks are not required, standing losses, radiation losses and overflow losses are eliminated.
– Condensate is pumped at much higher temperatures.
– Power consumption for pumping is eliminated.
– Flash steam is recovered along with condensate.

High uptime

– Mechanical pumps can easily handle high temperature condensate. They not only provide higher uptime compared to centrifugal pumps but also require substantially less maintenance.

Lower operating

– As collection/storage tanks, level controls and capital costs and standby centrifugal pumps are not required, capital costs are lower.
– Additionally, as steam is used to pump condensate instead of power, and the complete heat is recovered, the operating costs are also lower.

Safe

– Eliminating the venting of flash steam and the accompanying heat and humidity in the surrounding environment, not only makes the working environment more comfortable but also helps prevent corrosion to pipelines, accessories and equipment.
– Additionally, eliminating the venting of flash steam and condensate overflow losses also makes the system safer.