LPG Applications Pumps & Plants

SIHI Pumps Asia

www.sihipumpsasia.com

CEH liquid gas pumps at the PTT depot, Bangkok

In accordance with Technische Regeln fr Flssiggas TRF 1996-2.1 (Technical regulations for LPG), propane,
butane and their mixtures are regarded as liquid gases in this brochure. Other liquefied gases such as ammonia,
propylene, methylene etc. can also be handled by Sterling SIHI pumps and the following information should also be
considered.

1- Introduction
During the various stages of distribution, pumps are required to transfer LPG in order to compensate for the pressure
losses in the flow process. Under normal atmospheric conditions, liquid gases are gaseous. Depending on the
temperature at certain pressures, they can be liquefied.

distribution scheme for LPG

(example)
This characteristic together with other physical properties of liquid gas, require pumps offering unique performance
for this application. It is established that liquid must flow into the pumps, but when installing special pumps in
conjunction with a special design of installation (PC plant), static suction lift is possible.
The LPG pump program of Sterling Fluid Systems offers several suitable solutions:
1. for bottom-off loading: self-priming side channel pumps with inducer stage and for higher flow
requirements, the multistage segmental pumps with NPSH inducer and priming stage.
2. for top-off loading: vertical tank pumps and installations for suction lift operation.
These pumps and installations can also be found in the general catalogue LPG pumps and plants.

2- LPG pumps for positive suction head operation (bottom-off loading)

2.1-General
When operating at positive suction head the
pressure, which is feeding the liquid gas to the
pump, must be higher than the vapour
pressure (measurement x in diagram) by a
value corresponding to the required suction
head.
This overpressure at vapour pressure is necessary to compensate the inflow conditions and
thus achieve trouble-free operation. Depending
on the pump design, this overpressure is
extremely low in the case of Sterling SIHI
pumps.

At filling stations this overpressure at the vapour

pressure is in most cases produced by the difference
in static head between feed tank and pump.
Arrangements such as these create additional
installation costs. The required suction head of the
pump therefore is a quality factor which is of special
significance for pumps handling LPG. With Sterling
SIHI LPG pumps, low suction heads are achieved.

to the consumer

It is absolutely essential that the required

feeding head (NPSHR) of the pump is available at
the suction nozzle.
When pumping close to vapour pressure, partial
vaporization in the feed pipe, suction pipe, or in the

difference
in static height

first pump stage occurs frequently so the pump has to handle a liquid / vapour mixture. This is only possible how-ever if
the pump has been designed hydraulically for this application.
The design and pumping principles of Sterling SIHI LPG pumps in the CEH range meet these requirements.

When handling liquid / vapour mixtures, the pumps behave as though they were handling liquid with lower weight
corresponding to the specific gravity of the mixture. Characteristic curves for different mixtures are indicated by dotted
lines in the above diagram.
Vapour separated in the inlet area is re-condensed in the pump so that vapour-free LPG can be discharged.

2.2 CEH pumps for positive suction head operation

Sterling SIHI pumps of the CEH range have been developed with special consideration being given to the
pumping conditions of LPG.
They guarantee:
1. Handling entrained vapour at normal duty without interrupting flow.
2. Very low suction heads for trouble-free operation.
3. Characteristic curves which guarantee that the equipment will continue to pump without trouble in the event of
increased differential pressure.
The pumps are of segmental design, and have end section discharge branch pointing radially upwards. An inducer is
fitted on the suction side making it possible to achieve the favourable suction heads indicated. The side channel stages
are arranged in series.

CEH / 5 for positive suction operation with mechanical seal

On the discharge side, the shaft is sealed by means of a robust mechanical seal of well-proven design, internally
flushed by the pumped liquid and therefore absolutely maintenance-free. On the suction side there is an internal
sleeve bearing product lubricated. The nominal casing pressure is 40 bar.
This CEH is also available with a retaining stage, the CEH/7. This retaining stage offers a protection against dry running
by controlling the liquid level in the pump.
Offering the highest degree of safety with CEH/6, this unit is sealless and is drived by a magnetic coupling. The motor
torque is transmitted by a maintenance-free magnetic coupling. The nominal casing pressure is 25 bar (or 40 bar
depending on the desing).

CEH /7 for positive suction operation and magnetic coupling

2.3 Rating of pumps and aspects of installation

Pumps can be selected in accordance with the characteristic curves. Specific data, especially with regard to the required
motor, will be given in our quotation.
When selecting a pump size, it must always be borne in mind that vapour-free inflow can not always be guaranteed. In
practice, it is always very important to design an installation in accordance with the state of the art (e.g. see installation
drawing below) in order to minimalize vaporisation and headlosses. If not, some safety factors need to be incorporated
in the determination of the pump design.
The influence of specific gravity on the power absorbed is determined by the following formula:
P1
=
P2

P = power absorbed by the pump (kW)

= specific gravity (kg / m3)

Aspects on installation (general)

1. The suction pipes must be configured such that there is a minimum of resistance. There should be no bends, filters
etc. which could impact high frictional loses and hinder the flow to the pump.
2. Suitable measures must be taken to maintain the necessary pumping capacity.
3. Bypass pipes from discharge side to inlet or suction side are not allowed. The bypass backflow from the
relief valve must be fed back to the storage tank.
4. If one pump has to fill several tanks with different LPG mixtures at different vapour pressures, efficient non-return
valves or other suitable shut-off devices are required at the discharge side to avoid any service liquid blowing out
during the change-over process.
5. All relevant regulations are to be observed (e.g. VBG 16, TRB 801).
Installation example

Observe safety regulations and operating instructions!

Aspects on installation of a CEH for positive suction head operation

1. The net positive suction head (NPSHa) must be higher than the required NPSH (NPSHa).
2. A 1 to 2 pipe should be fitted going from the suction line, close to the suction, branch to the vapour phase of
the storage tank. This allows vapour to escape instead of entering the pump.
3. The diameter of the feed pipe has to be equal to the nominal bore of the pump.

2.4 Cylinder filling

Cylinder filling plant with a CEH / 5 with positive suction head operation

The filling valve must have relatively short closing periods to comply with the relevant instructions for cylinder filling. This
causes pressure fluctuations in the system, which could be detrimental to the pumps. This is particularly important when
filling small bottles.
Pressure shocks can be absorbed by installing a bypass from the discharge side of the pump to the storage tank. The
return of heated liquid will cause a slight increase in vapour pressure in the feed tank. This will considerably improve
suction head conditions.
An expansion tank filled with inert gas can also be installed in the discharge line to reduce the pressure shocks.

2.5 Commissioning
The training of personnel working on LPG installations is most important. Mistakes made when starting up can result in
dry-running and subsequent problems caused by damaged pump components.
1. The pump must only be started when the pump is correctly vented and filled with liquid.
2. Do not operate against closed discharge valve. Fit a by-pass valve.
3. Ensure that the vapour return line from the suction line to the tank always remains open.
4. Do not operate the pump outside its range.
5. Check direction of the motor when uncoupled from the pump.
6. When draining the tank ensure that the pump is switched off (a level monitor or dry-running protection is
recommended).
See the operating instructions for further information .

2.6 LPG pumps for positive suction head operation - Pump program CEH/5 - CEH/6 - CEH/7

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3- PC units operating on suction lift (top-off loading)

3.1 General
Space restrictions and technical safety regulations
increasingly require the installation of underground
tanks or surface-mounted tanks covered with earth.
Such applications require pumps operating under
suction lift operation which causes severe demands
on the pumps. Sterling SIHI pumps CEH / 6 and
CEH / 7 in conjunction with PC systems can meet
these demands.

Due to their capability of handling large quantities of vapour and their low NPSH, these pumps have the advantage that they
can be used without having to fit moving components or assemblies inside the pressurised tank.
The operating principle of PC systems can be understood using the pressure / temperature diagram below.

pressure / temperature course at suction lift operation

By the exhausting of vapour and re-vaporization during the suction phase, heat is drawn from the liquid in the suction
pipe. The pressure difference generated against the constant tank pressure causes the liquid to rise up to the pump and
the pumping commences.
At the same time, an energy-bearing partial flow is returned to the vapour phase of the tank and continues to produce
the differential pressure to overcome the suction lift required.
The relatively high consumption of energy caused by partial recirculation, sets an economic limit for this system at
suction lifts of Hs < 4 m and tank volumes of V < 200 m3 for propane and propane/butane mixtures with at least 20 % of
propane.

10

CEH/7 with retaining stage for suction lift opreration

3.2 Installation for PC-plants on suction lift operation

1. The static suction lift must be limited to the absolute minimum.
Hstat. 4 m
2. On initial start up, the discharge end of the pump should be provided with a facility for venting to the atmosphere.
3. In order to guarantee a reliable suction lift operation, a gas separator must be installed at the discharge end. A bypass and a gas separator balancing line must be led back from the separator into the vapour phase of the tank.
4. In the retaining stage, the pump has two connections for an explosion proof level switch, making it possible to ensure
that the pump can only run when it contains sufficient liquid.
5. A delayed release timer relay set to 30 sec. must be installed to allow for a decrease in level within the retaining
stage during the suction phase.
6. The Sterling SIHI PC plant complies with all the above requirements.

Twin PC-plants at National Oil Company Petronas in Malaysia

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3.3 LPG plants, program PC plant for suction lift operation from underground tanks - LPG pumps program CEH/6 - CEH/7

13

4- Vertical tank pumps (top-off loading)

4.1 General
In storage tanks with diameters not exceeding 6 m, tank pumps with externally
mounted motors can be used as an alternative. These vertical pumps are
mounted inside the storage tank and are designed to suit a specific tank.
The first pumping stage is located at the bottom of the tank by means of the
extended shaft design and operates under positive suction head conditions.
The following pump types are available dependent on the operating range:
1. Up to 35 m3/h: CEB-Side channel combination pumps using the
hydraulics of the CEH pumps
2. Up to 100 m3/h: ZEB-Centrifugal pumps using the hydraulics of the ZEA
pumps and the low NPSH impeller
3. Booster pumps with a low NPSH impeller to increase for inlet pressure.
All pumps are equipped with a magnetic coupling and are therefore totally leakfree. Stringent safety regulations and environmental considerations have been
taken into account in the design.

ZEB booster pump installed in the dome pit

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4.2 Vertical booster pumps CEB/ZEB with combined external pressure generating pump
Booster pumps are mainly used where
it is essential to have as few moving parts
as possible inside the pressurized tank.
The single NPSH impeller of this pump is
fixed on the shaft and is extremely
resistant to wear and operates effectively
under unfavourable conditions.
The main pressure increase is achieved
by means of an externally mounted pump
allowing easy maintenance.
This solution has proved successful
where different applications have to be
combined, e.g. where two pressure
generating pumps of different sizes are to
be fed by only one feeder pump with dual
speed motor to suit different operating
conditions.

Booster pump ZEB

External pressure generating pumps for bottling and road tanker filling

15

4.3 Installation

Installation for CEB / ZEB pumps

When adjusting the min. level switch in the storage
tank, it is important to take into consideration the
required positive suction head.
During standstill, differences in temperature between
storage tank and external pump parts may cause the
liquid to be forced out of the pump. The installation of
balance lines or vapour eliminating by-pass valves
guarantees a permanent liquid level in the pump.
If the pump is equipped with a foot valve then a safety
relief valve is required (included in the scope of
supply).
The pump must be protected against dry running
operation and extreme temperature increases by
suitable monitoring instruments (e.g. flow indicator,
load detector, PT 100 etc.).

Installation example

The installation and operating instructions must always

be observed.
Care must the taken to ensure that both maximum and
minimum flow rates are not exceded. Suitable regulation
must be incorporated.
Such devices include orifice plates or permanant by-pass
tires.

Installation of a ZEB pump for road tanker loading

16

Installation for booster pumps with pressure generating pumps

1. Provision must be made in the installation to ensure that both pumps can be started successively.
2. Both pump systems must be individually protected against dry running and increase in temperature.
3. The technical aspects regarding vertical tank pumps and LPG pumps operating under suction head operation, also
are to be taken into consideration.
4. Documentation for plant design and installation have to be available.

Booster pump CEB with pressure generating pump AEH

4.4 Operation (start up)

The training of operating personnel on LPG plants is of considerable
importance. Mistakes in start up result in dry running and subsequent
operating troubles caused by damaged components in the pump.
The following must therefore be noted:
1. The pump must only be started when the pump is correctly
vented and filled with liquid.
2. Do not operate against closed discharge valve. Fit an overflow
valve.
3. Ensure that the vapour return line from the suction line to the tank
always remains open.
4. Do not operate the pump outside its range.
5. Check direction of the motor when uncoupled from the pump.
6. When draining the tank ensure that the pump is switched off (a
level monitor or dry-running protection is recommended).
For other information see the operating instructions.

17

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4.5 LPG vertical tank pumps for top-off loading out of underground tanks - LPG pumps program CEB and ZEB

19

5- Multistage segmental pump UEA for large flows (bottom-off loading)

5.1 General
To handle large flow economically multistage segmental type pumps are preferable.

UEA-pump with integrated side channel stage

In order to meet the requirements of pumping LPG, these horizontal end section pumps are fitted with a low NPSH
impeller. The low NPSH required by this series of pumps guarantees operation in many different applications without
cavitation and other problems.
The UEA-pumps can leave
alone with 2 or 4 pole motors and
are available with mechanical
seal or with magnetic coupling
depending on the application.
The UEA range has an
integrated side channel stage
which is especially suitable for
handling vapour.
At standstill, increased ambient
temperature may cause vaporization in the suction line.
The design of the suction stage
ensures that vapour bubbles are
drawn out of the suction line and
vapour.

UEA pumps for road tanker filling

20

5.2 Installation of UEA pumps

1. Install a straight section of pipe in the suction line of the same bore as the suction pipe and 10-20 x the diameter.
2. Protect the pump against dry running and extreme increase in temperature (magnetic drive) by using a suitable
monitoring instrument (e.g. flow indicator, overload detector, PT 100 etc.).
3. Fill the pump up to theshaft centre line.
4. After start up, the vapour in the suction line must not be pumped against a higher differential pres-sure. It is
recommended that a temporary by-pass is fitted to the storage tank.
5. The return line from the suction pipe to the storage tank must be kept open at all times.
6. Avoid the operation against a closed discharge by installing a relief valve and return line to the storage tanks.

UEA pumps in bulk plant of Esso, Australia

21

22

5.3 LPG pumps for higher flow rates and positive suction operation - LGP pumps program UEA

23

6- General data
6.1 general physical data for LPG

General physical data for LPG

propane

n-butane

latent heat at 0 C kJ/kg

379

385

viscosity at 0 C Pa s

127

214

critical temperature C

96.8

152.1

critical pressure bar

43.4

38.8

melting point C

24

188

131

6.2 Technical safety data

Technical safety data

Data

flash point tcrit. C

n-butane
C4 H10

propane
C3 H8

152

97

C ignition temperature

365

ignition group (acc. to VDE)

G2

G1

explosion class (acc. to VDE)

dangerous materials class (acc. to VbF)

1.5 2.0

2.1

8.5

9.5

8.6

8.6

explosion limit inferior vol. %

in air

superior vol. %

max. explosion pressure, bar

470

For definition of the data, determination of the values and for detail of further influential values, please see:
Nabert / Schn Technical safety data of combustible gases and vapours, 3rd edition, pages 31-35.

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7- Selection
As well as the fundamental properties of LPG pumps, namely
low NPSH
capability to handle vapour mixtures
safety of the shaft sealing
self priming
proven material design
the correct selection of the pump size is an
essential factor to ensure an economical
system together with good operating
reliability.
The determination of the desired output
comes mainly from the required discharge
rate or filling capacities. However, the
maximum limits are not necessarily
determined by the pump performance but by
physical limitations or by the geometry of the
other components in the system.
The nominal output rating can be found in the
capacity curve of a filling carroussel for LPG
cylinders. This nominal output rating, with
regard to a constant filling pressure, should
be increased by an additional, by-pass
quantity led back to the feeling tank via a
pressure sustaining valve.
The additional quantity is normally from 20 to
50 %, depending on the size of the filling
system.

Capacity curves for filling carousels

The differential pressure to be generated by the pump depends on the frictional characteristics (system curve) of the
LPG plant and the flow rate.
Whilst the static head may often be neglected, the flow losses (dynamic head) of the components in the system can be
calculated accurately with the aid of standard tables and empirical values.

Total System Head

26

Uncertainty often arises when calculating the

system head which in LPG plants results mainly
from pressure differences are highly dependant
upon temperature changes. The seasonal
temperature changes and thus the change in the
pressure differential must also be considered
especially at the discharge side.
The pressure difference can be determined by
means of the vapour pressure curve for the media
being pumped. The use of the pressure gradient
of the liquefied gas could also been used. This
pressure gradient indicates the pressure change
per C and guarantees a fast and accurate
calculation of the differential pressure during the
design stage.
However it must be realized that, if extreme
factors are taken into consideration, the resultant
selection will be an oversized pump.

Pressure gradient of liquid gas

Thus the high cost of both the pump and the

operation under the partial load, will produce an
uneconomic solution and unfavourable operating
conditions.

Carousel filling plant for small cylinders (Siraga)

Sterling SIHI LPG pumps guarantee reliable filling when moderately rated because of their steep and stable
characteristics and also because of their capability of operating under extreme conditions for a short time.
The higher differential pressure, necessary to overcome a counter pressure depending on the temperature, is reduced
immediately at the beginning of the filling procedure and makes the temporary reduction of the pumping capacity
negligible.

27

Rail tanker off-loading pumps type CEH / 6 with magnetic coupling

8- Application examples
8.1 Industrial plants
The industry uses LPG in different applications e.g.
Welding soldering

Municipal gas production

Double-Duro hardening

Automotive fuel

Drying ovens

Building construction

Combustion chambers

Heating of railroad yards

Hot-water preparation

Fuel

Heating of buildings

Destroying of weeds

For all pumping plants the instructions for installation and start up must be observed.

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LPG bulk filling station for rail tankers equipped with a Sterling SIHI pump type CEH

8.2 Off-loading of rail tankers

During off-loading rail tankers, troubles may occur if the existing static suction heads are considerably reduced by
pressure losses caused by the installation of armatures or extremely long feed lines. Furthermore, it has to be noted that
when connecting a number of rail tankers to a common line unequal emptying of the rail tankers will not lead to
interruption of the regular flow by vapour locking (dry running of the pump).
The installation of the pressure balance line between storage tank and rail tanker is essential.

29

LPG plant with above ground storage tank positive suction head operation

8.3 Automotive refuelling with positive suction head operation

The installation of above ground or mounted tanks with free front side is advantageous for inspection, but requires a large
area because of the necessary safety zones. In these cases low suction heads are important in order to keep the
installation costs low. The Sterling SIHI CEH / 5 pumps comply reliably with these requirements. It is recommended to
install a level switch in the feed line which will avoid vapour formation due to a decrease in suction head below the
minimum.

30

Suction lift operation out of underground tank (PC plant)

8.4 Automotive refuelling with a suction lift operation

Lack of space and the requirements for technical safety make underground installation of LPG storage tanks necessary.
In this case the pump has to operate under suction lift operation. Because of the physical properties of LPG the reliable
operation of the refuelling plant using a SIHI CEH / 7 pump, is only possible by using a special arrangement of the
pipework or a Sterling SIHI PC plant.

31

SIHI Service Capabilities

SIHI Pumps Asia established throughout the Asia / Pacific region a strong local
service network of sales and service offices, authorized repair centers and
carefully selected business partners. All our service facilities supply quality
repairs and maintenance with genuine spare parts and trained personnel close to
our customers. We are working according to high quality standards and sharing
a common knowledge base to assure customer satisfaction.
Our LPG services:
Consultancy
System Optimization
Installation & Commissioning
Pump Alignment
Training & Seminars
Spare Part Kits
Service Contracts
Our service contracts for LPG cover the following:
Correct Installation and Alignment
LPG is sometimes very dirty, especially after first commissioning vessels pipes are full of rust and welding
particles normally a change of seal is required. Fully covered by contract
Yearly Service Check / Performance Check
5 Years Guarantee on All Parts (including wear parts normally change every 3 years)
24 Hours Response (via Swap Pumps strategically located for quick response )
Benefits:
Quick Response / Very limited down time
5 Years product guarantee!
Fixed cost per year
No need for stock / standby (spare parts / pumps)
Save money on equipment, correct installation, guaranteed performance and no loss of production
Contact our local representative / SIHI Pumps Asia office for more information.

Contact Addresses Asia

SIHI Pumps (Singapore)
Singapore

SIHI Pumps (Australia)

Knoxfield

SIHI Pumps (China)

Shanghai

Tel.: (65) 656 283 00

Fax: (65) 656 283 08
Email: info.singapore@sihipumpsasia.com

Tel.: (61) 3 9800 6200

Fax: (61) 3 9801 4011
Email: info.australia@sihipumpsasia.com

Tel.: (8621) 621 880 68

Fax: (8621) 621 780 86
Email: info.china@sihipumpsasia.com

SIHI Pumps (Malaysia)

Selangor Darul Ehsan

SIHI Pumps (Thailand)

Bangkok

SIHI Pumps (Taiwan)

Taipei County 251

Tel.: (60) 3 89426877

Fax: (60) 3 89428599
Email: info.malaysia@sihipumpsasia.com

Tel.: (66-2) 319 2567

Fax: (66-2) 319 2573/4
Email: info.thailand@sihipumpsasia.com

Tel.: (886) 2 2808 4675

Fax: (886) 2 2808 4552
Email: info.taiwan@sihipumpsasia.com

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