A tight schedule, limited access, high pumping heads, and harsh materials led to the decision to employ Godwin HL8M Dri-Prime™ pumps in parallel at Equistar Chemical for vessel cleaning during a turnaround at the company's Bayport, TX, facility.
The automatic self-priming pumps achieved a total flow rate of 5,000 gpm at 180 feet of head from two pumps in a three-day, two-part clean water/ chemical flushing application to clear clogging trays in the vessel.
A cargo hose for pump suction and discharge was used due to the high temperatures required – up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit – during the chemical flushing process.
Godwin Dri-Prime pumps were specified for this job because their oil bath high-pressure mechanical seal design allows them to handle temperatures up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit if necessary during chemical flushing.
For more information on the pumps, visit Godwin's web site at www.godwinpumps.com.
