Emergency Pump Solution for Oil Refineries

At Tapflo Gulf, we take pride in our ability to provide effective pump solutions that address critical challenges faced by our clients. Recently, a construction client of ours was working on a substantial contract at a major oil refinery. However, work came to a stop due to flooding in the areas where daily operations took place. The situation demanded an urgent resolution, as essential deadlines were at risk, and the work could not resume until the flooding was efficiently managed. Tapflo Gulf rose to the occasion, quickly offering an emergency pump solution to tackle the issue head-on.

A full investigation of the pump operation revealed that two bays were rapidly filling up with a troublesome mixture of thick oily silt and seawater from the nearby surroundings. This became more challenging as the fluids and silt had to be pumped a distance of 50m to reach a waiting tanker. To complicate the situation, the pump had to be suspended from a crane to effectively and swiftly pump the flooded bays dry.

After careful evaluation of available options, Tapflo Gulf selected the powerful and versatile 3” Diaphragm Pump (model TX820STT) from our Sanitary Diaphragm Pump range. The pump’s ATEX rating ensured compliance with chemical site regulations, and its AISI316L Construction with PTFE internals ensured reliable performance. Given the on-site requirement for the pump to be above the flooding level, the self-priming air-operated Diaphragm Pump (AODD) was chosen as the ideal solution.

This chosen pump model featured flap valves, allowing it to handle large volumes of liquids containing substantial solids (up to 15mm in diameter); making it perfectly suited for dealing with thick silt in this situation. Its self-priming capability extended up to 9m and eye hooks enabled it to be easily hung from the crane. Additionally, the pump offered the option of a Pneumixer, effectively preventing silt from settling at the bottom of the storage tank.

• Lubrication-free air distribution system for enhanced efficiency
• Maintenance-free ball check valve system for reduced maintenance needs
• Total visual inspection of the wetted parts to ensure optimal performance
• Supports CIP and SIP and can turn 360° to facilitate easy draining
• Simplified disassembly and cleaning through easily removable manifold clamps and housing screws
• Clean face, no-nut diaphragms to minimise the risk of leakage and simplify cleaning

The key to identifying the perfect pump solution began by properly understanding of the problem at hand, the specific pumping requirements and adhering to site regulations and restrictions. Achieving this level of understanding was made possible through in-depth communication with our valued client, enabling us to fully understand the severity and urgency of the challenge they faced.

When urgent pump solutions are the need of the hour, Tapflo Gulf stands ready to assist with our team of expert pump professionals. If you find yourself in need of an emergency pump solution, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are committed to quickly addressing your needs and providing pump solutions that meet your requirements.