BPMA helps with push for pump efficiency
Published: 24 November, 2015
The BPMA is helping with the drive for improved efficiencies across UK industry, particularly those sectors synonymous with pumps and pump systems. Since 2005, when the EU first identified those sectors that consume large amounts of electricity and subsequently organised studies as part of the EUP Directive 2005/32/EC to determine what could be done to reduce energy consumption, the BPMA has been active with such research, and says it is playing a crucial role in ensuring that the UK pump industry remains a key driver in delivering improved energy efficiencies for UK industry.
One such study named LOT 11 dealt with certain products within motor-driven systems. The outcome has been the delivery of new EU legislation covering fans, electric motors, glandless circulators and certain water pumps. The transition from the old EFF 1, 2 & 3 voluntary scheme to the new IE ratings of 1-4 is almost complete, with all motors ranging from 0.75kW to 375kW requiring a rating of IE3 (or IE2 with a VSD) as of 1st January 2017. It is believed this will be extended to 1000kW by 2020 under the new EU study Lot 30. There are of course exceptions, with the legislation only applying to three phase motors; all submersible motors and encapsulated motors that cannot be assessed for efficiency as a stand-alone unit are excluded. Single phase motors will be introduced within the LOT 30 study.
In regard to glandless stand-alone and boiler integrated circulators, the two main technology changes designed to substantially influence energy savings are the move away from standard induction motors to permanent magnet motors and the move from standard speed technology to variable speed technology - Products Directive and legal text for Circulators can be found within commission regulation 622/2012 of 11th July 2012.
As far as water pumps are concerned, the European pump industry agreed legislation intended to remove 40% of inefficient water pumps (in accordance with a Mean Efficiency Index - MEI) from the market, the respective time lines for which being January 2013 and January 2015.
Two other study areas (LOTS) also relate to pumps and are ongoing. LOT 28 encompasses pumps for public and private waste water (including buildings, networks and treatment facilities), and for fluids with high solids content. Lot 29 encompasses pumps for private and public swimming pools, ponds, fountains and aquariums, as well as clean water pumps larger than those regulated under LOT 11.
The BPMA, through its European Federation, Europump, has actively participated with the European Commission in the development of these LOTS and has created several applicable working groups. The work of these Europump Working Groups has been, and will continue to be, vital in helping to influence future legislative measures and to safeguard the interests of its member companies.
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