Process optimization for water supply at VAKIN

VAKIN, a Swedish public water and waste company serving over 140,000 residents in northern Sweden, partnered with SPM to enhance pump performance. By focusing on process optimization and operation at the Best Efficiency Point (BEP), VAKIN investigated how to meet drinking water capacity demands without costly pump replacements.

Application and monitoring setup

A proof-of-concept used SPM’s pump performance monitoring system to visualize and match the system and pump curves for BEP operation. The trial focused on optimizing the operation of the existing pumps, including adjusting the maximum RPM range and rotational speed to achieve an adequate flow capacity.

Results and benefits

The investigation revealed that a single pump could consistently meet drinking water demand after slight RPM adjustments, rendering pump replacement an unnecessary and costly alternative. The project provided a deeper understanding of pump function and optimization, supported improved energy performance potential, and enabled early warning for machine faults to plan corrective actions without interfering with drinking water supply demands.