Pump technology company Framo is introducing an inline turbine designed to recover electrical power from diverse fluid flows, which the company says offers substantial cost savings, energy efficiency, and a sustainable alternative to pressure reduction valves.
Successfully tested at the company’s centre on Flatøy, just outside Bergen, Norway, the technology builds on the success of the submerged turbine introduced in 2021, specifically designed for harnessing untapped energy from wastewater on offshore installations, Framo is now expanding its portfolio with a versatile inline turbine.
Njål Vangdal, Head of the Development Department, Framo Flatøy, said: “After receiving positive feedback and initial orders for our submerged turbine, we’ve advanced our technology with the inline turbine. This innovation has the capability to generate electrical power across a spectrum of industries and processes where fluid flows through pipes.”
For example, the inline turbine offers offshore installations energy recovery in processes involving continuous fluid flows. However, its applications extend beyond the oil and water sectors. The technology can seamlessly integrate into diverse processes with varying fluids, replacing traditional pressure reduction valves while concurrently generating electrical power.
Vangdal continued: “Fluid flows are inherent in all industries, and pressure reduction valves are commonplace. These valves are not only costly but also consume substantial energy. Our inline turbines offer substantial cost savings and contribute to environmental sustainability by harnessing this untapped energy. Essentially, our turbines can replace all pressure reduction valves.”
Currently undergoing installation at Framo’s test centre, the inline turbine is expected to contribute to substantial annual energy cost savings. Under normal load conditions, the company anticipates potential which align with Framo’s commitment to becoming the world’s first climate-neutral pump manufacturer by 2027.
Vangdal concluded: “Our tests demonstrate that we can regenerate over 40% of the input power in our test facility, showcasing the efficiency and viability of our inline turbine.”
Framo’s development engineers are diligently working to refine the solution, focusing on robustness and cost-effectiveness. Market research indicates widespread potential, with applications in various industries. Calculations suggest a payback period of one to two years on the investment, making the technology an economically viable and environmentally responsible choice.
Image: Framo development manager Njaal Vangdal with the inline turbine (source: Framo/Wake Media)
