Pump Control Research Articles

Optimization of Solar Water Pumping Systems for Agricultural Irrigation: Comparative Analysis and Design of an Ideal Solution

This study details the optimal characteristics of these systems to design an ideal pumping solution that maximizes agricultural productivity while reducing costs and ecological footprint. The designed system is an off-grid solar pump control device equipped with an MPPT controller for 24V DC photovoltaic panels operating within a 30-48V range. This system operates directly under solar irradiation, eliminating the need for energy storage. A major innovation of this system is its ability to regulate the filling of the water tank based on the measured water flow. When sensors detect low flow, the system automatically activates the water tank recharge and stops its activity when the flow reaches a predetermined threshold, thus optimizing the efficiency of water use for irrigation. The advanced architecture of the system integrates controllers capable of compensating for solar power fluctuations and intelligent sensors to automate the pumping process according to crop water needs. This systemic approach offers a robust and sustainable method to improve water management in agricultural operations, contributing to sustainable development goals and resilience to climate change.

Analytical model and flow velocity control of electrohydrodynamics system with multi-needle corona discharge

For the flow field distribution and control mechanism generated by the electrohydrodynamics (EHD) system with multi-needle corona discharge, this paper takes the multi-needle EHD pump as the research object, establishes different types of physical models through regional division, constructs multi-physical field coupling relationship, and derives a simplified EHD flow velocity equation suitable for the EHD system with multi-needle corona discharge. Combined with the intelligent optimization method of population evolution, a novel and effective intelligent algorithm is designed for the numerical analysis of the velocity profile distribution of a multi-needle EHD pump, and the flow velocity control law of the multi-needle EHD pump is analyzed by quantitative calculation. The validity of the model and analysis is verified by the electric field and flow field simulation of the multi-needle EHD pump system. The calculation results show that the voltage parameter is more dominant than the electrode spacing parameter in the steady-state flow velocity control of the multi-needle EHD pump, and both the maximum flow velocity and the average flow velocity are superlinearly controlled by voltage. In the design of multi-needle EHD pump with an electrode spacing of 1 cm, the simulation results show that the maximum gas flow velocity of 0.82 m/s can be obtained by providing 5000 V voltage, which verifies the design of a miniaturized multi-needle EHD pump and its feasibility in gas lasers and other application scenarios.

Design energy flexibility within a comfort and climate box – An experimental evaluation of the internal heat pump control effects

Heat pumps are key in decarbonising the heating and cooling sector, while also supporting further integration of renewable energy resources when flexible heat pump operation is allowed. Within this context, smartly combining a heat pump, thermal energy storage and control system into a single product was introduced by the International Energy Agency and was named as a Comfort and Climate Box. Regarding heat pumps, manufacturers mainly include internal control constraints on the compressor ramping rate, cycling times, pump control etc. to ensure a safe and reliable operation. While these rules can generally not be bypassed, current literature mainly neglects or simplifies these control constraints, while the potential effects on the energy flexibility provision remains unknown. This leads to two main uncertainties. One the one hand on how flexible heat pumps really are when having to communicate from an overarching control system to the actual heat pump system, taking into account all the different internal heat pump control strategies. On the other hand, uncertainties also arise on which control aspects are of crucial importance to incorporate, even within a simplified heat pump model. Hence, this paper aims to experimentally investigate the effects of the on-board heat pump control in a Comfort and Climate Box system, while providing energy flexibility services, both for space heating and domestic hot water services. Comparison of experimental results retrieved from a hardware-in-the-loop set-up to results obtained from a simplified heat pump simulation tool for design energy flexibility evaluation showed deviations up to 17.73 % on the flexibility efficiency, 125.95 % on the charging time and 32.90 % on the discharging time. These results prove the requirement of incorporating the internal heat pump control for energy flexibility analysis, even within the design stage. Investigated aspects included the compressor ramping rate, back-up heater control, pump control, temperature measurement location in a thermal energy storage and the hydraulic integration of a thermal energy storage. Results show that especially the compressor ramping rate and mutual influence between the compressor speed, pump speed and back-up heater power cannot be neglected and should be incorporated in any heat pump model for energy flexibility analysis.

Optimizing energy efficiency in multi-chiller systems: A comprehensive Modelica-based approach

To achieve sustainable development of buildings, this paper investigates the energy-saving potential of multi-chiller systems by examining the interactions between sequencing optimization, load optimization, and parameter optimization in systems with varying capacities. A Modelica-based simulation platform, adaptable to various programming languages optimization engines, was developed for this purpose. The study introduces a sequencing optimization threshold function that considers both wet-bulb temperature and cooling load. Additionally, a two-stage optimization strategy that prioritizes parameter adjustments before sequencing is proposed. Case studies demonstrate that this threshold function and reversed optimization order can further enhance overall energy savings. Focusing on a system with three large chillers and one small chiller, the study reveals the energy benefits of activating the small chiller under specific conditions, improving overall system efficiency. The proposed optimization achieved a cumulative energy saving of 650,463 kWh over the summer, with sequencing contributing 5.64 %. Frequency conversion control of the water pump is identified as a significant energy-saving factor. This research provides a comprehensive approach to optimizing diverse chiller systems, highlighting substantial potential for energy conservation.

DATAWARE AND SOFTWARE OF THE AUTOMATED TECHNOLOGY FOR COMPUTER- INTEGRATED CONTROL OF HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS

The paper has solved a scientific and applied problem as for substantiating requirements to technical and functional characteristics of the automated technologies of computer-integrated control of heat pump systems in the heating and cooling modes owing to its dataware and software developing and testing. Following functional procedures have been taken into consideration during the dataware and software development of the computer-integrated subsystem for heating of buildings: monitoring of ambient air temperature, ground temperature, and operating modes of functional elements of the heat pump system as well as zonal monitoring of indoor air temperature; computer-integrated processing of the monitoring data; automated control of the heat pump as well as modes of zonal thermal medium supply to the building; and analysis of energy efficiency as for implementation of the proposed computer-integrated method to control systems of thermodynamic heating. It has been identified that thermal capacity of a heat pump is rather sensitive to indicators of the total heat losses of a building. If the total heat losses increase from 0.2°С/hour up to 0.5°С/hour then constant value of the thermal capacity increases by 48%. Moreover, thermal capacity of a heat pump is quite sensitive to ambient air temperature dynamics: if temperature variation is 12°С (i.e. 3°С-9 °С) then average increase in thermal capacity is 58 %. Following functional procedures have been involved during the dataware and software development of the computer-integrated subsystem for cooling of buildings: monitoring of ambient air temperature and operating modes of functional elements of the heat pump system; zonal computer-integrated monitoring of indoor air temperature; computer-integrated the monitoring data processing based upon microcontrollers; automated control of the thermal pump operating modes (i.e. heat energy outfeed and release to the main intercooler unit); and analysis of energy efficiency as for implementation of the proposed computer-integrated method to control systems of thermodynamic cooling of buildings. The abovementioned has helped identify that thermal capacity of a heat pump is rather sensitive to indicator of heat exchange with surrounding air: four times increase in heat-exchange coefficient (i.e. from 1°С/hour up to 4°С/hour) results in 20% growth of thermal capacity of the cooling subsystem system at similar ambient air temperature (it varies from 30°С up to 36 °С) if the maintained target indoor temperature is 22°С.

Empowered or enchained? Exploring consumer perspectives on Direct Load Control

Demand Response has become a central focus in policy discussions, attracting heightened attention for its potential key role in fostering enhanced demand flexibility. Direct Load Control (DLC) holds particular promise, requiring reduced consumer involvement compared to strategies relying on manual responses to time-varying pricing. However, the participation rate of residential consumers in DLC programs remains low, emphasizing the need for a more profound understanding of consumers' perspectives on DLC. Drawing from 15 in-depth interviews with Swedish households participating in a program involving direct load control of heat pumps, this study aims to explore the experiences and perceptions of consumers, providing in-depth understanding on factors that may serve as motivators, barriers and enablers for participation. Key findings include: financial benefits and interest in technology were the main motivations for participation; pre-existing knowledge and awareness of energy-related matters shaped consumers’ attitudes to DLC; trust in the service provider was a key enabling factor for participation. The study further suggests that DLC does not inevitably lead to a perceived loss of control among participants, but, if implemented in alignment with their specific conditions, needs and preferences, may also foster a sense of empowerment.

The Power Circuit of Mechanical Damping Device for Cooling System of 50 kW Pulse Diesel Generator

Diesel generators have advantages such as high reliability, superior economic performance, and a wide range of applications. However, its working environment is relatively sealed, and it is difficult for the internal heat of the motor to transfer to the outside. Prolonged high temperatures can affect the operational performance of the motor and even cause danger. Therefore, it is necessary to design a reasonable cooling system to ensure its efficient operation within the safe working temperature. The water-cooled cooling system has good heat dissipation performance, consisting of components such as a water pump, radiator, fan, water tank, and temperature controller. By precisely controlling the water flow rate and wind speed, effective control of the internal temperature of the generator is achieved, extending the service life of the equipment. This article studies the power circuit of the mechanical damping device in the cooling system of a 50kW pulse diesel generator, develops heat transfer and hydraulic energy circuits, and constructs the frequency response of the circuit. As the water quality increases in the circuit, the amplitude decreases at low frequencies (less than 4 rad/s) and frequencies close to 10 rad/s, and the amplitude aligns. For one parameter variable, the optimal frequency is 3-4 rad/s.

Randomized trial to compare acceptability of magnesium sulphate administration for preeclampsia and eclampsia: Springfusor pump versus standard of care.

In low-resource settings, magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) for preeclampsia is administered majorly through an injection into the gluteal muscles 4-hourly for 24 hours. The repeated injections are very painful and may lead to infection, abscess formation, and reduced compliance. To determine the acceptability of Springfusor® pump for the administration of Magnesium Sulphate in preeclampsia and eclampsia. Randomized Open Label Clinical Trial. The study was conducted at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. Eligible women had a systolic blood pressure of ≥140mmHg and or diastolic blood pressure >90mmHg, proteinuria ≥+1, and the physician's decision to start on MgSO4. Four-hundred-ninety-six participants were randomized to a Springfusor® pump group (n = 248) or control (standard of care) (n = 248) administration of MgSO4. Intervention group had a loading dose (4gm of 50% MgSO4 intravenously over 20 minutes) and maintenance therapy (1gm of 50% MgSO4 intravenously per hour for 24 hours) administered using the Springfusor®. The standard of care (SOC) group received a loading dose of 4gm of 20% MgSO4 IV over 15-20 minutes, followed by 10gm of 50% MgSO4 intramuscular (5gm in each buttock) and a maintenance dose of 5gm of 50% MgSO4 was administered IM every 4 hours for 24 hours. Both arms received the rest of the care for preeclampsia/eclampsia as per the hospital guidelines. Acceptability of the method of administration was assessed using a Likert scale (1-5; 1 and 2: acceptable and 3-5: unacceptable). Pain at the site of MgSO4 administration was assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale 1-7, (1 minimal pain and 7 worst pain). Comparisons were assessed with the Chi-square test, Mann Whitney-Wilcoxon test, and Students' t-test. Intervention arm; was more acceptable than the standard of care arm, (95.3% vs70.3%; p<0.001), had a lower median pain score, (2(CI: 2-2), vs 4(CI: 4-5) p<0.001), and fewer side effects. Maternal mortality was comparable between groups (0.8% in the intervention arm vs 1.2% in the IM arm). Trial No PACTR201712002887266 (https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/).

Cost-Effective Control of Hybrid Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) System Coupled with District Heating

Hybrid ground source heat pump systems (GSHP) offer energy flexibility in operation. For hybrid GSHP systems coupled with district heating, limited studies investigated control strategies for reducing system energy costs from the perspective of building owners. This study proposed a cost-effective control strategy for a hybrid GSHP system integrated with district heating, investigating how power limits of district heating/GSHP, COP value for control (COPctrl), and control time horizon impact the system annual energy cost, CO2 emissions, and long-term borehole heat exchanger system performance. The simulations were performed using the dynamic building simulation tool IDA ICE 4.8. The results indicate that to realize both the energy cost savings and the long-term operation safety, it is essential to limit the heating power of district heating/GSHP and select an appropriate COPctrl. The control time horizon insignificantly affected the annual energy cost and long-term borehole heat exchanger system performance. The recommended COPctrl was 3.6, which is near the GSHP seasonal performance factor. Eventually, the cost-effective control reduced the system’s annual energy cost by 2.2% compared to the GSHP-prioritized control. However, the proposed control increased the CO2 emissions of the hybrid GSHP system due to the higher CO2 emissions from district heating.

Modeling load sensing pressure and flow control of axial piston pump by analyzing impact of bulk modulus

This research is focused on investigating the impact of the bulk modulus on the dynamics of variable delivery hydraulic axial piston pump (VAPP). The bulk modulus decreases exponentially with an increase in temperature whereas there is a linear positive relationship with pressure. The research revealed that there is a 6% (1 litre/s) increase in flow rate and a 2.6% (1.5 MPa) decrease in delivery pressure with a 38.75% (0.434 GPa) decrease in bulk modulus. Flow ripple and pressure pulsation are reduced by 39.3% and 43.2% respectively with a corresponding 38.75% decrease in bulk modulus. Pressure pulsation and flow ripple are responsible for the generation of noise and vibrations in the system. Flow rate increase contributes to better response and control of the VAPP. While a reduction in bulk modulus offers improved dynamic performance and overall response of the VAPP, it is noteworthy that a decrease in bulk modulus hurts the pump delivery pressure. The research allows the pump designer to formulate a strategy to optimize the bulk modulus under dynamic operating conditions to achieve optimal pump performance.

Research of Key Technologies on Design and Implementation of Intelligent Pump Station

Abstract With the continuous advancement of technology, intelligent solutions have found widespread applications in various fields, including pump stations in water management projects. This paper focuses on the key technologies involved in intelligent pump station monitoring, control, and operation. The paper takes a pump Station as an example and addresses the problems and current situation in its management. It designs the architecture of an intelligent pump station at three layers: business application, technical methods, and requirements. Solutions are proposed for pump station dispatch and operation, safety management, and engineering maintenance. Finally, by establishing a smart monitoring system based on the five senses and one brain concept and utilizing a dual-factor intelligent verification method in conjunction with digital twin technology. Finally, intelligent management of the pump station is achieved. By exploring these technologies, the paper aims to provide insights into the crucial aspects of designing and implementing intelligent pump stations, thereby facilitating more efficient and intelligent management, control, and operation of water management projects.

To Zone or Not to Zone When Upgrading a Wet Heating System from Gas to Heat Pump for Maximum Climate Impact: A UK View

Domestic heating systems across northern Europe are responsible for a substantial fraction of their countries’ carbon footprints. In the UK, the vast majority of home space heating is via natural gas boilers with ‘wet’ hydronic radiator systems. Most of those use TRVs (thermostatic radiator valves) for micro-zoning, to avoid overheating, improve comfort and save energy. To meet Net Zero targets, 20 million such UK gas systems may be retrofitted with heat pumps. Heat pump system designers and installers are cautious about retaining TRVs in such systems in part because of worries that TRV temperature setbacks that lower heat demand may raise heat pump electricity demand in a “bad setback effect”, thus wasting energy. This paper presents a new view of heat pump control and provides the first exploration of this issue through the development of a simple physics-based model. The model tests an installation industry claim about the negative effect of TRVs, and finds that though real it should not apply to typical UK retrofits with weather compensation. The energy efficiency benefits of TRVs for older and partly occupied homes, and to keep bedrooms cooler, remain valid. Comfort-seeking householders and installers should know that setting ‘stiff’ temperature regulation may invoke the bad setback effect and cost dearly in energy and carbon footprint.

Analysis of the Use of Sand Pump Control Pumps in Overcoming Sand Problem in Sucker Rod Pump (SRP) in Sp Wells In the Kawengan Field

The sand problem is a common challenge in the oil and gas industry. PT Pertamina EP Asset 4 Cepu Field in the Kawengan Field has rock which is a ngrayoung formation and the type of sandstone can cause sand to enter into the well bour when oil is produced for a long time. Therefore, we need the right tool to be able to overcome the problem of sandiness. In this case PT Pertamina EP Asset 4 Cepu Field in the Kawengan Field uses a sand control pump in an effort to overcome the sand problem. Thus, this research was conducted by analyzing the appropriate pump size from the sand rate calculation, fluid flow rate before and after using the sand control pump, as well as economic analysis. The results of the pump size analysis show that the right pump size to use is 2 joint mud anchors. The results of the subsequent analysis show an increase in the rate of fluid production after using a sand control pump. The results of the economic analysis show that the use of a sand control pump on a sucker rod pump (SRP) in the SP well is feasible because it has economic value with an oil price of 45 US$ / bbl, an NPV of 221,709 USD is obtained, and project success (IRR) reaches 106 %, as well as the value of pay out time for 1.83 years. Keywords: Economy, Flow Rate, Sand Problem, Sand Control Pump, Sand Rate.

Water Pump Wireless Monitoring and Control System

Water Pump Wireless Monitoring and Control System

Static Characteristics and Energy Consumption of the Pressure-Compensated Pump

The motivation of this research was to assess the possibility of speed control for the selected pressure-compensated pump. Measured static characteristics of an axial piston pump with pressure compensation are presented in the paper. Based on these characteristics, the pump efficiencies are determined. The characteristics and efficiencies are determined for the different pump outlet pressures, pump speeds, relative displacements and for the different pressures set at the pressure compensator. In addition, the different methods of pump control were compared. These are displacement control, speed control and both controls. The efficiency of each control method was compared based on the determined mechanical input power at the pump drive shaft. By comparing these control methods, it was found that the combination of both control methods can achieve up to 93% savings of mechanical power in the controlled state (stand-by state). Also, the adverse effects resulting from each control method that reduces pump efficiency were defined.

A phase modulation method of sine signal for dual-active-valve piezoelectric pump

A phase modulation method with wide range and high resolution for the sine signal is essential for dual-active-valve piezoelectric pump (DAVPP) control. In DAVPP, by phase modulation, the flow direction can be changed and the output flow rate and pressure can be precisely adjusted. In this article, the authors developed a phase modulation method for the sine signal. This method is characterized by both the combination of hardware and software, and the combination of digital circuits and analog circuits. In hardware, a sinxcosϕ constructing circuit and a cosxsinϕ constructing circuit are specially structured, which enables phase modulation to be achieved. In software, the output phase is determined by the digital controlling quantities sent by the main control chip and stored in the form of a table. Analytical formulas for the cosine constructing table tab_cos and the sine constructing table tab_sin are analyzed and structured. Experimental results show that the output phase can be regulated linearly and continuously, within a range of 0°–360°. Its resolution can be improved according to the requirements. Although the modulation process and circuit are simple, it can effectively solve the problem of sine signal phase modulation for DAVPP control.

An internet of things-based pump and aerator control system

Small-scale shrimp farmers in Hamparan Perak District, Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia, conduct direct water quality supervision and manually use aerators and water pumps. Thus, it is inefficient in meeting the water quality required for shrimp farming and using production costs. This study aims to test the performance of an internet of things (IoT)-based prototype in supervising and controlling the aerator and pump in a shrimp pond. This prototype comprises an ESP32, three sensors: the DS18B20 sensor, MLX90614 sensor, and JSN-SR04T sensor, and two relays to control the aerator and pump automatically. Prototype testing is done directly on shrimp ponds by placing the prototype in an electrical panel connected to a power circuit. Based on the study's results, it is known that the prototype can measure water temperature. The water level and temperature of the aerator motor are pretty accurate. In addition, the prototype can also control the aerator and water pump well and send notifications to users automatically via smartphones.

A Novel and Self-Calibrating Weighing Sensor with Intelligent Peristaltic Pump Control for Real-Time Closed-Loop Infusion Monitoring in IoT-Enabled Sustainable Medical Devices

Technological advancements are propelling medical technology towards automation through the application and widespread use of automatic control, sensing, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. Currently, IoT technology has been extensively applied in medical devices, aiming to ensure patient safety through more real-time detection and more effective management. In the monitoring of intravenous infusion, accurately sensing the infusion conditions in real time is particularly important. This article introduces a low-cost smart infusion device based on IoT technology, which controls the infusion rate with a peristaltic pump and monitors the volume of fluid delivered. It uses an improved, self-calibrating weighing sensor to achieve the real-time closed-loop control of the flow rate, ensuring patient safety. Additionally, the Blynk dashboard can be used for monitoring and controlling the flow rate and infusion volume.

Electro-Hydraulic Servo-Pumped Active Disturbance Rejection Control in Wind Turbines for Enhanced Safety and Accuracy

Aiming at the high accuracy and high robustness position control of servo pump control in the pitch system of a wind turbine generator, this paper proposes an active disturbance rejection controller (ADRC). The ADRC considers pitch angular velocity and acceleration limits. According to the kinematics principle of the pump-controlled pitch system, the relationship between the pitch angular velocity and acceleration limit and the displacement of the hydraulic cylinder is established. Through the method of theoretical analysis, the nonlinear relationship expression between pitch angle and hydraulic cylinder displacement is obtained, and the linearization of pitch angular velocity control is realized; the formula for b0 (the estimated value of the input gain of the system) of the pump-controlled pitch system is obtained by the method of modeling and analysis, b0 is the key parameter for the design of the ADRC; the stability of the controller parameters is proved through the stability analysis and simulation analysis, and the design of the self-immobilizing controller with pitch angular velocity and acceleration limitation is the completed ADRC design. Finally, a joint simulation platform of AMESim and MATLAB as well as a physical experiment platform of electro-hydraulic servo pump-controlled pitch control is constructed, and the effectiveness of the proposed control method is verified through simulation and experiment. The results show that compared with the unrestricted ADRC and PID, the velocity-acceleration-limited ADRC can effectively improve the control effect of the angular velocity and acceleration of the paddle, smooth the startup process, improve the safety of the system, and have better position control accuracy and anti-jamming ability.

Empowering Homes with Esp-32

Smartboard system utilizing an ESP32 microcontroller integrated with various sensors and electric sockets. The system aims to enhance safety, convenience, and energy efficiency in residential environments. Initially, an electric switch box was fitted with two sockets, and an ESP32 microcontroller was integrated to control them. The system further includes a smoke sensor for gas leakage detection, water level magnetic sensors for automatic water pump control, a DHT sensor for temperature and humidity monitoring, a display for real-time data visualization, and a Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) for protection. Through integration with the Blynk app, users can remotely monitor and control the system, including supplying power to sockets and detecting gas leaks. Additionally, Bluetooth connectivity is incorporated for added convenience, particularly for electric scooter users in complex living environments. Experimental results demonstrate the efficacy of the integrated system in providing remote control, safety monitoring, and automation features. KeyWords: Smartphone-based, Mobile application, an automated system (ESP32), Wifi Network