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CASE HISTORY

erence partner in the upstream and downstream 1. Overall space availability - Diaphragm
segments of the energy sector. pumps generally have a larger footprint
compared to piston pumps. However, the
Advanced technology LEWA Triplex model, without stroke adjust-
ment, is a monobloc pump with a single
and customization: gearbox, making it one of the most compact
LEWA’s strengths designs on the market for triplex diaphragm
pumps. This allowed for easier integration into
One of LEWA’s distinctive elements is its ability to the existing plant layout, despite the space
customize solutions for its customers, many of constraints.
whom are large EPC contractors and multinational 2. Suction conditions - The gap in minimum
corporations. LEWA does not offer simple pumps, required suction pressure for diaphragm
but complete systems designed according to the pumps, compared to piston pumps, posed
specific needs of customers. LEWA’s pumps, such another challenge. LEWA oversee this is-
as those with “M9” patented diaphragms, are re- sue by utilizing its specialized pulsation study
nowned for their reliability, program and expertise to perform detailed
LEWA’s solution involved precision, and resistance, es- analyses of the client’s piping conditions. The
utilizing its compact “Triplex” sential qualities in extreme solution included the special sizing of suction
“design, conducting detailed environments like those of manifolds and valves to minimize pressure
the oil industry.
losses, ensuring reliable operation and optimal
pulsation studies, and creating Furthermore, LEWA’s dia- performance. Additionally, the pumphead with
a custom skid phragm technology ensures “M9” technology, featuring the DPS system,
safety and reliability even in ensures safety and reliable diaphragm posi-
the most critical operating tioning during startup and superior suction ca-
conditions, thanks to the pumps’ ability to handle pability compared to other diaphragm pumps
aggressive, viscous, or high-temperature fluids on the market.
without compromising performance. This is par- 3. Custom skid design - LEWA Italy played a
ticularly important in oil and gas treatment, where crucial role in adapting the pump design to the
processes must be flawless to avoid costly down- client’s system. The team worked closely with
time or failures that could have serious environ- the client to create a custom skid that met the
mental and financial consequences. specific process and space requirements. This
involved the detailed design and realization of
The success story: all components, turning theoretical estimates
into a practical and functional solution. The
LEWA delivers advanced skid design also included a temperature con-
“Triplex G3G” diaphragm trol sensor that eliminated the need for cooling
water, thanks to a thorough study of historical
pumps for hydrocarbon installations.
condensate treatment
in gas extraction field The deployment of key

In 2024, LEWA successfully delivered its advanced technologies like the ‘M9’
“Triplex G3G” diaphragm pumps for the treatment “pumphead and the DPS system,
of hydrocarbon condensate in a gas extraction with their reliability and
field. Hydrocarbon condensate, a valuable byprod-
uct of natural gas extraction, is a light liquid hydro- safety, resulted in reduced
carbon that is separated from raw natural gas. It is downtime and maintenance
used in various applications, including as a feed-
stock for petrochemical plants and as a blending costs, demonstrating LEWA’s
component for gasoline. commitment to providing
innovative and reliable
Challenges and solutions solutions for demanding
The project presented several challenges primar- industrial applications
ily due to the aggressive nature of hydrocarbon
condensate, which had previously caused sig-
nificant issues with piston pumps. The aggressive
fluid compromised the piston seals, leading to Technology and innovation
frequent maintenance and downtime. For this rea- LEWA’s “Triplex G3G” diaphragm pumps, com-
son, LEWA decided to pursue a solution with dia- pliant with API 675 standards, were chosen for
phragm pumps, as they are completely leakage- their superior chemical resistance and robust de-
free and can pump the fluid without any leakage sign. These pumps replaced the existing piston
into the hydraulic parts or outside. pumps, providing a more reliable and maintenan-

98 Impiantistica Italiana - Marzo-Aprile 2025