The Parallel Sensorless Controller from Xylem Inc.’s Bell & Gossett (B&G) brand is a device that provides advanced system staging of up to eight pumps in parallel configuration to maximize system efficiency. It features a large 5.7″ touch screen that displays real-time feedback and enables energy modeling.
“Parallel pumping is a proven method of improving efficiency in pumping systems with higher control heads; the ability to control up to eight pumps with Bell & Gossett’s Parallel Sensorless Controller gives customers greater options in optimizing system efficiency,” said Jordan Ruff, Product Line Manager, Americas, Xylem AWS. “The B&G Parallel Sensorless Controller also replaces the need for a wired differential pressure transducer, reducing installation costs.”
Sensorless pump control technology relies on pump-specific algorithms, which can accurately predict where a pump operates on its curve. Using speed, torque, and power data to know where the pump operates on the curve, sensorless pump controllers can be set up to take action based on those factors.
“Sensorless control is what drives the efficiency offering and optimization of B&G’s Parallel Sensorless Controller,” said Ruff. “B&G validates sensorless performance and customer hydraulic requirements at the factory to ensure precise and efficient operation in the field.”
The staging and destaging multi-pump configurations that are compatible with the Parallel Sensorless Controller are created on the basis of efficiency, thus allowing optimized hydraulic efficiency. It meets ASHRAE 90.1 system efficiency requirements and features advanced system staging with B&G’s expansive Efficiency Island operating range.
With the capability to run parallel configurations with up to eight pumps, the Parallel Sensorless Controller delivers the best efficiency staging to minimize energy costs and enables individual pumps to take control if one or more units or sensors are not active, ensuring reliable system flow and pressure.
Unique to the B&G Parallel Sensorless Controller is the real-time graphical display of the hydraulic pump curve, system curve, and control curve. This enables the user to see actual system performance to confirm and adjust optimum hydraulic performance. The graphical display is also 40% larger than other models, providing better visibility of system data during commissioning and service.
The Parallel Sensorless Controller integrates several other advanced features and functions to better control pump operation and provide critical information on pump efficiency and health, including:
- Energy savings modeling, a predictive tool that compares energy savings against fixed-speed pumping
- Standard communication protocols like BACnet and Modbus for seamless Building Management System integration, allowing for better control and monitoring of HVAC systems
- A dedicated power supply so the system does not solely rely on variable frequency drive power
- A dedicated and integrated disconnect switch that eliminates the need to install a separate switch, reducing costs and time.
