API vs. ANSI pumps
API vs. ANSI pumps
(OP)
I'm sure this has been addressed previously, but wanted to know if anyone could help me out quickly....
I'm working on a project for a gasoline/fuel oil terminal, where fuel is delivered to tanks via a pipeline and pumped from the tanks to tanker trucks for delivery. We are adding new tanks and pumps. Pumps are located within the emergency containment area, but should operate at ambient temperatures and no more than 100 psig.
API pumps are much more robust and handle higher temperatures and pressures. However, I have heard that for any hydrocarbon handling, no matter what the conditions, always use an API pump. Is this simply a CYA statement by engineers or is it actually worth the extra cost? My opinion is an ANSI pump will do the job. Any thoughts??
I'm working on a project for a gasoline/fuel oil terminal, where fuel is delivered to tanks via a pipeline and pumped from the tanks to tanker trucks for delivery. We are adding new tanks and pumps. Pumps are located within the emergency containment area, but should operate at ambient temperatures and no more than 100 psig.
API pumps are much more robust and handle higher temperatures and pressures. However, I have heard that for any hydrocarbon handling, no matter what the conditions, always use an API pump. Is this simply a CYA statement by engineers or is it actually worth the extra cost? My opinion is an ANSI pump will do the job. Any thoughts??





RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
BigInch
-born in the trenches.
http://virtualpipeline.spaces.msn.com
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
Also, I've worked previously in sales and you would be amazed at the marketing tactics to attract engineers to buy a product.
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
For lo press, lo temp, non-critical services, non-hazardous substances, lo stress conditons, I don't see anything wrong with using ANSI pumps. For critical services, I wouldn't touch one with a 1/2 joint of pipe. With APIs, you know what you're going to get before you open the box.
See your company spec. As you note, some project or company specs simply require API for any and all hydrocarbon service.
BigInch
-born in the trenches.
http://virtualpipeline.spaces.msn.com
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
In my opinion, if you can go with ANSI pumps, do so. There is no compelling reason to go with API on such a simple application.
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
Phitsanulok
Thailand
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
The purchase price represents a very small number in the life of a piece of plant. The API pump will prove more reliable and will be available for longer times ie reduced MTBF. Ths requiring fewer maintenance resources.
What is the cost of the plant not being available? Would one incident over shadow the perceived difference in cost?
As an engineer I start with the aim to provide the client with the best & safest technology available. Then I expend time and energy looking at lesser quality solutions to see if they can be justified. Project managers and procrement people tend t want to go straight for the cheapest solution and get me to justify their desires to keep costs at the lowest point. They rarely have the skills to engineer things or look at the overall costs.
Engineers go to jail for their mistakes project managers just miss out on their bonus.
Specify the API pumps. If the client wants a lesser pump then do his bidding providing that you make him or her fully aware of the risks or consequences. Make sure their is a HAZOP done and document the clients decision to go with the lesser pump.
Yes you need to CMYA for in today's world there is no where to hide from the judicary. They hold the view that if the technology exists to make the workplace safer it should be employed.
Geoffrey D Stone FIMechE C.Eng;FIEAust CP Eng
www.waterhammer.bigblog.com.au
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
ANSI pumps most certainly ARE available in carbon steel if you want them that way. From reputable pump manufacturers, at least.
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps
RE: API vs. ANSI pumps