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Do HMD Kontro pumps come with operation/installation manuals?
Yes, all of our pumps have manuals and additional manuals can be provided on request.
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Do you provide training about the operation of HMD Kontro pumps?
Yes. We can cover all aspects of our technology including design, installation, operation and maintenance and unit protection of your pump systems. This we consider to be essential to maximise the life expectancy of your investment.
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Do you provide an After Sales service?
Our aim is to provide the best service available. Our pumps have warranties and we have a 24/7 call out service +44(0) 7789 171645 in the unlikely event of pump breakdown.
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Can my HMD Kontro pump be upgraded?
Yes. All pumps can be upgraded and we will be delighted for an engineer to advise on the best available option(s) for you.
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Do you share customer details with third parties or your partners?
We keep all of your details private and confidential and do not share any of your details to third parties.
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How quickly can I heat up / cool down the pump?
HMD Kontro suggest a maximum temperature change of 50 degrees C or 90 degrees F in 30 minutes. This is to overcome any thermal shock and differential expansion.
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Is directional rotation critical?
If the direction of rotation is not correct the hydraulic performance of the pump will be greatly reduced. This will then reduce the internal flow and pressure distribution, which may cause a reduction in bearing lubrication and magnet coupling cooling. Therefore, the rotation must be correct. An arrow is provided on all HMD Kontro pumps to indicate the direction of rotation.
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What is the correct method to check rotation?
It is most important to remember the pump must not run dry. Even jog or bump starts are not advisable. If the pump is separately mounted it is advisable to disconnect the flexible coupling and run the motor only. On close-coupled pumps this is not possible. Here it is best to wait until the pump is full of liquid before checking the rotation. Observing the motor fan will be the easiest indicator of the direction of rotation.
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Can the pump be mounted in any other way than horizontal?
Most pumps are designed to operate in a horizontal orientation. HMD Kontro can supply pumps that are designed to operate specifically in a vertical orientation. Please contact us for further information.
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Is the pump self-venting?
A horizontally oriented HMD Kontro pump will self-vent, but only if the air entrained within the pump can escape. Therefore, the discharge must have provision for air to bypass valves etc. Venting of vertically oriented HMD Kontro pumps requires special measures that are detailed in the Installation and Operating Manual supplied.
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Will the pump drain completely via the drain plug?
The drain plug is placed at the lowest point of the casing front cover. In most cases the pump will drain completely, but with a hazardous liquid it is always advisable to purge the pump.
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What is the HMD Kontro containment shell (shroud) thickness?
The nominal thickness of a standard HMD Kontro containment shell (shroud) will vary depending on the pressure rating and the material of construction. All HMD Kontro containment shells are hydrostatically tested to 1.5 times the MAWP (Maximum Allowable Working Pressure) of the pump unit. For further information on specific pumps, please contact HMD Kontro.
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What thermocouple setting should be used to shut down HMD Kontro pumps?
Thermocouples can be provided with an HMD Kontro pump to provide a means to detect excessive temperature which can lead to flashing of process fluid, resulting in significant damage to the pump.
The appropriate temperature setting is application specific and is contingent on several dependent and independent variables including the coupling flow and the physical characteristics of the fluid. The coupling flow is dependent on the specific variables of the pump model, operating point, and certain characteristics of the pumped fluid (i.e. viscosity).
The potential for fluid flashing in the motor (coupling) is in turn dependent on this coupling flow and the independent physical characteristics of the pumped fluid including the specific heat, vapour pressure, and specific gravity. To obtain appropriate thermocouple settings please have the above specific variables available and contact us to discuss your needs.
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When should we align the pump to motor?
It is usually advisable to align the pump finally, once the pipe work is connected. If the pump is at high temperature the alignment should be first set at ambient temperature, then checked once the pump is stabilised at its operating temperature. Any adjustments can be made to ensure the alignment is within tolerance at this temperature. If allowed to cool the flexible coupling will accept the misalignment for the duration of the heating of the pump.
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Can an Inducer be fitted?
Inducers can be fitted, but the suction nozzle bore of the casing will have to be modified. Please note, whilst an inducer improves the NSPHr (Net Positive Suction Head Required), it does reduce the operating range of the pump. Please contact us for detailed advice, as it may be easier to improve the NSPSHa (Net Positive Suction Head Available).
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Should my impeller be fitted with “wear rings”?
Wear rings are only fitted to GSP (API 685 compliant) pumps. HMD Kontro do not fit wear rings on GSA or GSI pump ranges.
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Can a filter be fitted?
Filters for particulate removal can be fitted but we would like to be advised of the requirement and the solid content to confirm for your application. HMD Kontro can offer in line filters and external filters both mono and duplex.
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What is the corrosion allowance?
Corrosion allowances meet the requirements of API, ASME and ISO specifications. Please contact us if you require further information.
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What specification do the nozzle loads meet?
HMD Kontro pumps allowable flange loadings are designed to meet the requirements of the relevant API, ASME or ISO design standard.
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What standard is the containment shell (shroud) manufactured to?
HMD Kontro containment shells (shrouds) are designed and manufactured in accordance with the relevant API, ASME or ISO specification requirements.
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Should any fluid be in the coupling housing?
Under no circumstances should fluid be inside the coupling housing. This will cause heat to be generated and the power required to drive the pump will increase. Some pumps are equipped with coupling housing jackets and these will be full of liquid or steam. These jackets are around the outside of the coupling housing and the medium does not enter the coupling housing.
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Can I change my duty requirements by trimming the impeller?
Whilst it is possible to change the duty by trimming, certain rules apply. As with all pumps there is a minimum acceptable impeller diameter and this should not be exceeded. If the impeller is trimmed, it should be deburred and re-balanced to ISO 1940 Grade 6.3. HMD Kontro are always available to assist, please contact us.
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What accuracy do we align the pump and motor?
This depends on the type of pump. For GSA pumps the tolerance is radial 0.25 mm / face to face 0.25 mm. For API pumps, radially 0.07 mm / face to face 0.03 mm, as examples. Please contact us for further information.
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Are there alternatives to ‘splash bath’ oil lubrication?
Alternative lubrication methods to the standard ‘splash bath’ oil lubrication are available and can be discussed with HMD Kontro.
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Where do we put lubricating oil?
Lubricating oil is only put into the power frame. Under no circumstances should oil be put into the coupling housing. The oil should be topped up only to a point that is halfway up the sight level gauge.
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How much oil should be used (capacity)?
This will vary depending on the model of pump. GSA Frame 1: 100 ml, GSI Frame 1: 125 ml, GSA Frame 2: 200 ml, GSP Frame 1: 375 ml, (GSP Frame 2: GSP Frame 3: 1175 ml GSP Frame 4 CSIC CS1D / 2D CS2E / 3E CSF CSG): 2250 ml. Please contact us for other models and further information.
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What grade of lubricating oil is required?
The standard lubricating oil grade used is to ISO 3448 viscosity grade 68. If the application is for high temperatures, then it may be advisable to use synthetic oil or increase the viscosity. If low temperatures, again synthetic oil may be used, or the viscosity reduced.
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Are there connections for instrumentation?
Yes, section 6 of the Installation and Operating Manual supplied covers ‘protection systems’ (or instrumentation) and there are connections for instrumentation on the pump. Dependant on pump type. Most can have a probe RTD and a liquid sensor fitted. It is advisable to contact us for details.
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Can solids be pumped?
Yes, liquid streams can be pumped with limited levels of solid particulate contamination, these are up to 1.5% w/w and 150 microns with carbon bearings. Up to 5% w/w and 150 microns with SiC bearings.
If higher solid capabilities are required, please contact us for filtration advice.
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Should I fit a non-return valve on multi-pump installations?
In most cases it would be advisable to fit a non-return valve in the discharge line. This will stop the standby pump from rotating in the reverse direction. For priming the pump or initial filling the non-return valve will require a bypass line or vent.
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What pressures can HMD Kontro pumps withstand?
HMD Kontro can offer pumping solutions to operate at pressures from 10 bar to 185 bar as standard. Also, we can offer an engineered product to higher pressures. Please contact us for further information and assistance.
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What materials are available for the Product Lubricated Bearing?
HMD Kontro offers bearing options to suit the application. The materials are Alpha Silicon Carbide, Carbon, PTFE or Loaded PTFE.
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Are the Outer Magnet Rings interchangeable?
In some cases, they can be interchangeable. This applies to the GSA and GSI ranges. Care must be taken to ensure there is no loss in coupling capabilities. Before any change of Outer Magnet Ring is undertaken it is suggested that you contact us for further information.
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Are there any special precautions when operating with magnets?
Yes, there are special precautions. People with pacemakers should not, under any circumstances handle the components. It is safe to be around the pump in operation, as there is no magnet field on the outside of the pump. Some wrist watches will be affected by the magnetic field and should be removed whilst handling the coupling.
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Can I check the magnet strength?
It is possible to check the strength with a Gauss meter. Please contact us for advice on what to measure and indicative measurement values.
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How can I prevent my magnets getting damaged during maintenance?
HMD Kontro inner and outer magnet rings are totally enclosed and therefore protected. Care must be taken not to place the Inner Magnet Ring on hard magnetic surfaces. Whilst this will not affect the magnet strength it may damage the cladding. Always place on wooden or plastic surfaces and wrap in card or paper to stop particles attracting to the magnetic surfaces.
The Outer Magnet Ring is carbon steel on the outside, but the bore has an alloy or stainless steel cladding. Again, it is advisable to cover the opening to stop particles and dirt being attracted to the magnets.
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What materials are available for the construction of an HMD Kontro pump?
HMD Kontro offers pumps in 316 stainless steel, Alloy C and Alloy 20. The pump being product lubricated can be manufactured in a material compatible to the pumped product. This does include non-metallic materials. Other materials are available. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
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What is the expected bearing life?
The life of the bearings is directly proportional to the cleanliness and lubricity of the liquid pumped.
If there is anything more about HMD Kontro that you would like to know, please call +44 (0) 1323 452000 or email us.
