Expanded hydraulic solutions with new, customizable pump solutions
National Pump Co., a recognized market leader in vertical turbine pumps, has released the latest addition to its comprehensive hydraulics portfolio: the H28MC and H28LC models (FIG. 1), now available for future orders. With both pump bowls and impellers in stock and ready for assembly, these new offerings are designed to meet the diverse needs of customers across all markets including industrial, municipal and petroleum.
The robust H28 models are engineered to deliver 10,500 gallons per minute (gpm), powered by a 500-horsepower (hp) motor. Like all National Pump Co. products, the H28MC and H28LC were designed, engineered, manufactured and performance-tested at the company’s NSF 61 and ISO 9001 certified facility in Glendale, Arizona (U.S.), ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability.
The introduction of the H28 series fills a crucial gap in the product lineup between the H24 and H30 models. Developed using advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) flow simulation for superior efficiency and finite element analysis (FEA) for an optimal strength-to-weight ratio, the H28 pumps offer a perfect balance of performance and durability. The H28MC achieves a best efficiency point (BEP) at 1,180 rpm with 14,750 gpm at 143 ft. per stage and 87% efficiency, while the H28LC delivers 13,250 gpm at 131 ft. per stage, also at 87% efficiency. Both models feature a specific speed range of 3,600 to 3,800, a maximum power rating of 2,000 hp, a maximum head of 1,500 ft., and can be configured with up to seven stages.
All H28 pump models are available in standard construction materials and can be customized to meet exact project specifications at National Pump’s various manufacturing locations.
For more information, visit https://www.nationalpumpcompany.com/blog/national-pump-company-improvements-new-models-rationalization.
Expanded motor line with shaft-grounded models for enhanced bearing protection
ABB continues to help companies increase motor efficiency by as much as 20% by expanding its ABB Baldor-Reliance® SP4 motor™ line.
The release of the newest Baldor-Reliance SP4 motor variant (FIG. 2) featuring integrated shaft grounding technology marks the fourth phase of the ABB SP4 platform. Designed specifically for variable speed drive (VSD) applications, SP4 shaft ground motors offer superior protection against electrical discharge damage, extending motor life and reducing costly downtime.
This product line extension reinforces ABB’s commitment to innovation, efficiency and reliability in industrial motor solutions. Built on the proven SP4 platform, the new models combine NEMA Super Premium (IE4) efficiency with advanced bearing protection in a rolled steel frame.
Key features and benefits include:
Integrated shaft-grounding ring—Redirects harmful shaft currents away from bearings, preventing premature wear.
NEMA Super Premium efficiency—Achieves IE4 performance without magnets or rare earth materials, reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
Flexible configurations—Available in 2, 4 and 6 pole; 1 hp–10 hp totally enclosed fan-cooled (TEFC) and 1 hp–20 hp open drip proof (ODP) enclosures with footed and footless designs for drop-in replacement compatibility for direct online (DOL) or VSD operation.
Durability and reliability—Cooler operation extends component life; backed by a four-year warranty.
ABB’s SP4 shaft ground motors deliver IE4 efficiency and integrated shaft grounding in a rolled steel frame using standard AC induction technology. This unique combination positions ABB as a market leader in energy-efficient, VSD-compatible motor solutions. The SP4 shaft-grounded motor is ideal for HVACR and pumping systems, manufacturing facilities and VSD-driven loads at risk of bearing current damage.
ABB previously introduced three different models with SP4 technology: cast iron severe duty, rolled steel open drip-proof and rolled steel totally enclosed fan-cooled motors. All SP4 models are available in standard or C-face, and rolled-steel versions are available in footed or footless configurations.
The SP4 product line builds on the simplicity of ABB’s proven AC induction motors and features a range of durable motors tailored to meet diverse applications. The idea is simple: Take a proven AC induction motor design and make it better by reducing motor losses by an average of 20% while maintaining the simplicity, form, fit and function of today‘s installed base of AC induction motors.
With more than 80% of industrial electric motors operating DOL without using a drive, SP4 represents ABB’s commitment to improving efficiency and performance without requiring customers to make significant investments in additional technology or components.
As a standalone DOL unit, SP4 achieves NEMA Super Premium efficiency; however, when paired with a variable-speed drive, even higher efficiency levels are attainable. These motors are compatible with pumps, fans, compressors and conveyors and are ideal for all industries.
Launched in 2024, SP4 motors are available in severe-duty cast-iron motors covering a power range of 25 hp–300 hp, and general-purpose rolled-steel models available in 0.25 hp–20 hp. SP4 is ABB’s solution for a more sustainable and efficient future driven by the need to reduce energy consumption.
For more information, visit ABB Baldor-Reliance® SP4 motor™ line.
A new standard for durability and performance in signaling technology
Pfannenberg Inc., a global leader in thermal management and signaling technologies, has announced the North American launch of its new PROTECT Series, a breakthrough in robust signaling solutions engineered for the most demanding industrial and outdoor environments (FIG. 3).
With its virtually unbreakable die-cast aluminum housing, the PROTECT series is designed to withstand harsh conditions across a broad spectrum of industries, including fire alarm, marine, machine safety, functional safety and hazardous areas. The series includes both sounders and combined sounder-light devices with six different lens colors, with options for Xenon or LED visual signaling.
Certified to meet stringent industrial standards, PROTECT devices offer 80 selectable tones, four externally selectable additional tones, and a pre- and main alarm function to prevent shock reactions. Dip switch settings offer precise control over the sound, providing seven different adjustments from 86 dB–116 dB. The series’ outstanding perceptibility and high sound penetration reduce the number of devices needed, while multi-voltage compatibility and easy installation features minimize downtime and inventory requirements.
Among the new offerings, the PRO 10 stands out as a versatile and high-performance sounder. Its pre- and main alarm function helps prevent shock reactions by starting with a reduced sound pressure level before escalating to the main alarm. The PRO 10 is certified for MED/MER marine use, SIL 2/PL d functional safety, and explosion-proof requirements for hazardous zones (ATEX Zone 2/22 & UL Class 1 Division 2 Class I, Groups A, B, C and D, Div. 2, Class II, Groups F and G, Div. 2 Class III). With a maximum sound pressure level of up to 116 dB(A) and an IK09 impact-proof rating, the PRO 10 ensures clear, reliable signaling even in noisy or hazardous environments.
The PRO X 10-05, a combined audible and visual signaling device, brings additional safety and performance benefits to the PROTECT series. Featuring a high-performance Xenon flashing light (5 Joules, 56 cd) and a maximum sound pressure level of 116 dB(A), the PRO X 10-05 ensures that alarms are both seen and heard, even over large areas and through obstacles. Its robust die-cast aluminum housing is complemented by IP66/IP67 and NEMA 4/4X protection ratings, guaranteeing resistance to dust, water and mechanical impacts. With visual signaling up to 568 ft. and acoustical coverage up to 116 dB(A), the PRO X 10-05 reduces the number of devices required for comprehensive protection, saving both installation time and costs.
For more information, visit https://www.pfannenbergusa.com/signaling-technologies/.
HMI/SCADA software adds features to optimize connectivity, development and run-time performance
Emerson has released Movicon.NExT™ Version 4.4, a modern human-machine interface (HMI) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) platform. Movicon.NExT HMI/SCADA empowers users to create interoperable automation architectures for discrete and process manufacturing applications in the commercial, industrial and municipal/utility industries (FIG. 4). This update delivers enhancements boosting functionality, performance and flexibility, with an emphasis on user-centric improvements to maximize development efficiency.
Communications and drivers—Updated industrial communication protocol drivers—for OPC UA, EtherNet/IP, and others—provide support for multi-station, advanced arrays and more. A new DNP3 driver enables Movicon.NExT HMI/SCADA to integrate seamlessly with power industry and electrical utility networks. Optimized I/O operations more efficiently aggregate read/write tags for greater throughput, and open connectivity helps users easily connect with digital assets.
Scripting and development—Native support within Movicon.NExT for Python runtime scripting enables custom, cross-platform logic, so developers can create sophisticated strategies while building on proven work. Updated user interfaces, new graphical properties for controls, and streamlined license management (both local and network-based) enhance and simplify the overall user experience, while accelerating project development.
Data management—New support for TimescaleDB in the historian offers improved storage efficiency and higher performance, especially with large data volumes. Other enhancements increase data precision and SQL database compatibility, while recipe and alarm management are performed through a centralized connection. Movicon.NExT is built to meet the increasing demand for data to support visualization and analytics.
Security and compliance—A full migration to .NET 8 for core Movicon.NExT applications, and unified and encrypted password management applied across the entire platform, are just two examples of built-in security to help users defend their digital systems and achieve regulatory compliance. CFR21 compliance has now been enhanced with the addition of user group information logged alongside usernames.
An integration-ready HMI/SCADA platform—Additional Movicon.NExT modules, such as Pro.Lean™ and Pro.Energy™, are also revised to v4.4, with updates such as an improved user interface and navigation, new library symbols and the addition of grouping and overview screens.
The release of Movicon.NExT v4.4 strengthens this HMI/SCADA’s position as an open, high-performance and integration-ready platform, while maintaining a focus on ease-of-use. Movicon.NExT is the foundation of a solid automation architecture, helping end users, systems integrators and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) create innovative automation solutions.
For more information, visit https://www.emerson.com/en-gb/automation/control-and-safety-systems/movicon/movicon-next.
Expanding possibilities in large-diameter piping systems in oil and gas applications
Aalberts integrated piping systems (IPS), a global leader in advanced integrated piping systems for the distribution and control of liquids and gasses, has launched "Apollo" PowerPress® options in large-diameter (LD), an extension of its renowned "Apollo"® PowerPress® product line. This new offering, available in large diameters of 2.5 in, 3 in. and 4 in., represents a significant advancement in piping technology, catering to broader applications and offering enhanced flexibility for large-scale projects.
Key features of the "Apollo" PowerPress LD make it especially advantageous for oil and gas industry applications (FIG. 5). Its hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR) sealing elements, combined with zinc-nickel coatings for superior corrosion resistance, deliver secure, long-lasting seals in piping systems that transport LP/natural gas, fuel oil, industrial gas, engine oil and hydraulic fluids. These attributes make the system well-suited for demanding environments such as fuel transfer lines, gas distribution networks and oil processing facilities, where reliability, leak prevention and chemical resistance are mission-critical.
The system incorporates the innovative Leak Before Press® technology, preventing unpressed connections from holding pressure and thus enhancing installation integrity and safety. For smaller "Apollo" PowerPress sizes (0.5 in. to 2 in.), a color-coded visual control ring (VCR) is featured, with tabs that break away to provide quick visual identification of completed connections. A standout feature of the "Apollo" PowerPress LD (2.5 in. to 4 in.) is the color-coded Visu-Control® foil, which splits for easy removal after press completion. This ensures that unpressed connections are easily identifiable prior to system pressurization, further improving quality control and reducing inspection time.
The "Apollo" PowerPress LD system is compatible with Ridgid® and Milwaukee Press Tools, increasing installer convenience and allowing for faster installations with commonly used tools. Its full-port flow design maximizes flowrates, enhancing system efficiency and performance in fluid management. Aalberts IPS continues to support its products with comprehensive field service, ensuring successful implementation from pre-construction training to post-installation support. This commitment to customer success has been a key factor in the widespread adoption of "Apollo" PowerPress technology.
For more information, visit https://aalberts-ips.us/newsroom/apollo-powerpress-large-diameter/. HP