An outlook of the pump industry

They have also sought to develop new technologies and solutions that give them a competitive edge, moving into aftermarket support and even starting to manufacture in developing countries where they hope to increase sales.

Some general trends that Vesconite Bearings has observed in 2016, and which are likely to continue into 2017, include the following:

Making pumps energy efficient:
Many pump users are intent on reducing their energy demands. The electricity used in pumping is considerable so the benefits of reducing electricity consumption and costs through right sizing and minimising vibration, heat and noise are key.

Environmental concerns also weigh heavily on many, and the reduction of CO₂ emissions plays an important part in many pumping-system buying decisions.

Vesconite Bearing’s bushings have a low co-efficient of friction and make pumping more efficient. This translates into a reduction in energy consumption.

Keeping lifecycle costs down:
Maintenance considerations continue to play a role in purchases. Many users of pumps wish to purchase reliable equipment that will not let them down in the middle of a production cycle. They are aware that work stoppages reduce earnings and profits, and are choosing products that will assist with their core production activity while not costing an arm and a leg.

The pump bushings from Vesconite Bearings have been proven to last longer than traditional bronze material and rubber products and this gives a pump a longer lifecycle.

Selling is harder in some industry sectors:
Pump users in the mining, marine and oil and gas sectors, among many others; have been hard hit by the slowing global economy. Pump users in these sectors are trying to extend the use that they get from their pumps and are not as ready to purchase new equipment.

Stressed companies can source pump bushings and wear rings from Vesconite Bearings where only these need to be replaced. This saves these companies from having to buy all components that are found in repair kits, when only certain components are required.

Food and water concerns:
Food producers and water utilities are increasingly concerned about the health and safety of the equipment that they buy. They are aware that equipment needs to be shown to be safe for food preparation, safe for use in water distribution and proven not to contaminate the environment.

Vesconite and Vesconite Hilube are approved for food contact by the Laboratories National D’Essais and contact with drinking water by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme. Vesconite Hilube also has NF61 approval for use in potable water applications in the US.