APPENDIX G – Pumps and Turbines
Surge Analysis and the Wave Plan Method
Supplementary Material: Example Problems and Solutions
Appendix G – Problem 29
G.29 A surge analysis study was commissioned on a long water transmission main that runs only for 2 months each year (a water supply to a bird sanctuary in an arid region) following two pipe burst events within a short time. The transmission main was protected only by a few non-slam air valves; there was no other protection at the electric motor-driven pump station area. The surge analysis study determined that the highest surge pressures could be brought within the allowable pressure limits if the combined moment of inertia of the pump was 20% higher than its current value.
a. It was suggested to add a flywheel to the pump-motor assembly to address this issue. Describe the pros and cons of flywheel-based surge protection for this pipeline system.
b. One of your colleagues has suggested switching the electric motor with a diesel engine under the assumption that the heavier diesel engine (which delivers the same rated speed and power as an electric motor) would provide the necessary additional moment of inertia. Would you consider this suggestion instead of adding a flywheel or any other suitable surge protection device at the pump station?
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