Abstract: The invention provides a liquid pumping apparatus, system and method for increasing the flow of fluid in a gravity feed network. The invention provides an in-line main pipe with upstream and downstream portions flanking a manifold that houses a check valve. One or more branch pipes may form a fluid bypass around the manifold. Each branch pipe includes a pump configured to accelerate the fluid in at least partially the same direction as the downstream flow. A sensor may be adapted to measure a parameter related to the liquid level in the main pipe. A rotary encoder may be adapted to measure the flow rate in the main pipe as a proportional function of the check valve angle, under gravity flow conditions. A control system may energize the pumps when the liquid level in the main pipe is above a predetermined threshold according to the parameter.

Abstract: A split volute for a centrifugal pump is disclosed that provides a manufacturing advantage by improving the yield of high-chrome iron casting, providing for full surface coating capability using line-of-sight spray coating systems. Performance improvements include improved pump efficiency, abrasion resistance, and volute lifetime. Additional operational cost savings are enabled through reduced time required for common volute maintenance procedures and an increased replacement interval for the volute. Taken together, these advantages reduce the total cost of ownership of the split volute pump system.

Abstract: A split volute for a centrifugal pump is disclosed that provides a manufacturing advantage by improving the yield of high-chrome iron casting, providing for full surface coating capability using line-of-sight spray coating systems. Performance improvements include improved pump efficiency, abrasion resistance, and volute lifetime. Additional operational cost savings are enabled through reduced time required for common volute maintenance procedures and an increased replacement interval for the volute. Taken together, these advantages reduce the total cost of ownership of the split volute pump system.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus, system, and method for detecting a layer of contaminants, such as oil and/or hydrocarbons, on the surface of accumulated water within a confined area that is periodically evacuated by a pump. The detection of contaminant layers may be accomplished through the use of an optical detection system comprising a light source, and a conductive sensor comprising a horizontally-disposed plate and a stilling tube. Dissipation of turbulence and agitation of the accumulated water may be achieved by a stilling tube proximate one or more of the sensors disposed within the stilling tube. Additional sensors may detect high, intermediate, and low levels, and an integrated controller may determine the state of media within the confined area, the system being generally configured to keep the oil or other contaminant within the confined area while continuously and/or periodically pumping water away from the confined area.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus, system, and method for detecting a layer of contaminants, such as hydrocarbons, on the surface of accumulated water within a confined area that is periodically evacuated by a pump. The detection of contaminant layers may be accomplished through the use of an optical detection system comprising a light source, a plate having conductive, capacitive, positional and/or reflective properties, and a capacitive, pressure, optical, or ultrasonic sensor capable of distinguishing between oil and water, with the plate positioned at a distance equal to the desired minimum detectable hydrocarbon layer thickness. Dissipation of turbulence and agitation of the accumulated water may be achieved with a stilling tube. Additional sensors may detect high, intermediate, and low levels, as well as trigger optical sensor measurement. An integrated controller may determine the state of media within the confined area.