When to Activate Both Pumps: Duty / Standby vs. Lead / Lag Approach

Question:

Hello everyone, according to the specifications, there are two pumps designated as Duty / Standby, with their operation based on the water level. However, in a unique scenario where the water level is very high, they want both pumps to run simultaneously to quickly lower the water level. Typically, "Duty / Standby" means one pump is active while the other remains inactive. This exceptional situation calls for both pumps to be engaged for immediate action. Has anyone encountered this situation before? Is "Duty / Standby" still the most logical choice here? Personally, I would refer to this setup as "Lead / Lag," where the Lag pump's activation point matches the high-high level, even if it is usually inactive. Thank you!

Top Replies

In my experience working with lead/lag logic, I have found that most facilities utilize an alternating system to ensure each pump has equal runtime hours. While one pump is in lead service, the other acts as a lag pump and will kick in during high-demand situations. This setup is commonly seen in water utilities, especially for underdrain, sump, and disinfection pumps. These systems are typically controlled by relay logic and a mechanical alternator that feeds information into a PLC5. I encountered many of these setups during my time in the water utility industry in the early 2000s. Hope this information proves useful to you.

When setting up multiple pumps in a sump, labeling them as Pump 1 and Pump 2 can simplify control. Adding a 3 position switch to each pump with markings for Hand, Off, and Auto, and then connecting them with a three position switch labeled Pump 1, Auto, Pump 2, allows for flexibility in operation. With both pump switches set to "Auto", the third switch offers the option of Pump 1 leading, Pump 2 leading, or alternating between the two. This setup provides customizable control over the pumps' performance. Feel free to give your system a unique name or designation for easy reference.

Primary vs. Secondary Education: Understanding the Difference and Importance

In a plant distribution network, it is common to implement a duty/standby arrangement to maintain consistent pressure levels. When pressure falls below a certain threshold (X), a second pump automatically activates until the pressure rises above a specified level (Y) and then shuts down. This setup ensures uninterrupted operation and provides redundancy in case one pump is unable to meet the demand. Having a standby pump ready to take over when needed is crucial for maintaining system efficiency and reliability.

The setup of wastewater duplex pump stations commonly includes a feature where the pumps operate at maximum capacity during rainstorms or snow melting to avoid sewage overflow into residential basements. This arrangement is crucial for preventing potential damage and health hazards caused by sewer backups.

I've indeed come across this scenario in my line of work. I agree with your suggestion of the “Lead/Lag” nomenclature. This term accurately represents both pumps operating simultaneously under high water levels. But "Duty/Standby" could still be applicable in the sense that one pump generally takes the lead (Duty), and the other kicks in during high-demand situations (Standby). However, the critical thing is to set the control parameters correctly to meet varying demand conditions, no matter the choice of terminology.

I agree with your "Lead / Lag" approach as it could handle this unique scenario effectively. In my experience, it's quite common to employ both pumps in scenarios where the water level rises drastically. Labeling them as "Duty / Standby" may be a bit misleading because in in such significant events it's imperative that both pumps function simultaneously. So even though one pump is generally on standby, it's more of a secondary lead in times of crisis, hence the "Lead / Lag" designation makes more sense to me.

Hi there, you've raised an interesting point. In my experience, designating pumps as "Duty / Standby" or "Lead / Lag" largely depends on the specific requirements of the system. The "Duty / Standby" setup typically accounts for redundancy and system reliability during routine conditions, while "Lead / Lag" can handle exceptional circumstances by allowing both pumps to operate simultaneously, lowering the water level more promptly. Therefore, I agree with your thinking—if the objective is to quickly deal with high water levels, a "Lead / Lag" configuration, as you suggested, might be more suitable.

That’s a great point about the need for both pumps to run in exceptional cases! I've encountered a similar situation, and I agree that while "Duty / Standby" usually implies exclusive operation, adapting to a "Lead / Lag" approach during critical water levels could be a smart solution. It allows for a more responsive system when immediate action is needed. Maybe incorporating a control logic that enables simultaneous operation during high-high levels while retaining the standard setup during normal conditions could offer the best of both worlds? It's always interesting to see how traditional setups can evolve with practical needs!

More Replies →

Streamline Your Asset Management
See How Oxmaint Works!!

âś…   Work Order Management

âś…   Asset Tracking

âś…   Preventive Maintenance

âś…   Inspection Report

We have received your information. We will share Schedule Demo details on your Mail Id.

To add a comment, please sign in or register if you haven't already..   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. What is the difference between Duty / Standby and Lead / Lag pump operation approaches?

Answer: Answer: Duty / Standby entails one pump being active while the other remains inactive, typically used for backup purposes. On the other hand, Lead / Lag involves alternating pump operation based on specific criteria, with the Lag pump activated when certain conditions are met.

FAQ: 2. When should both pumps be activated simultaneously in a Duty / Standby setup?

Answer: Answer: Both pumps may be simultaneously activated in unique scenarios where immediate action is required, such as lowering water levels quickly during exceptional high water level situations.

FAQ: 3. How can the Lead / Lag approach be beneficial in managing water levels?

Answer: Answer: The Lead / Lag approach allows for more flexibility in pump operation, enabling pumps to switch roles based on specific conditions like high water levels, ensuring efficient water management.

Ready to Simplify Maintenance?

Join hundreds of satisfied customers who have transformed their maintenance processes.
Sign up today and start optimizing your workflow.

Request Demo  â†’