Whether operating in wastewater treatment facilities, dewatering on mines, irrigating in the agricultural sector or transferring fluids and slurries in the manufacturing sectors, pumps cannot do their job without the precise control and efficiency that advanced drives provide.

SEW-EURODRIVE plays a pivotal role in South Africa’s pump sector by providing advanced drive technology solutions that enhance the efficiency and reliability of pumping applications.

“Drives are the critical components that dictate the performance, reliability and energy efficiency of pumping systems,” explains SEW-EURODRIVE business development manager Greg Lewis, noting that by regulating the speed and torque, drives ensure pumps operate under optimal conditions tailored to specific applications.

“This precise control not only enhances the overall performance but also significantly reduces energy consumption, minimises mechanical wear and extends the lifespan of the pump systems,” he continues.

SEW-EURODRIVE offers a comprehensive range of products tailored to meet the specific demands of the pump industry.

These products include gear units, motors, frequency inverters and decentralised drive systems, all designed to deliver optimal performance in diverse pumping applications. The company’s solutions are integral to various industries such as water treatment, mining, agriculture and manufacturing, ensuring smooth and energy-efficient operation of pump systems across Africa.

SEW-EURODRIVE’s extensive product portfolio for pump applications includes helical units, which are known for their high efficiency and robust construction, making them suitable for heavy-duty pumping applications. The company also offers alternating current motors and geared motors designed to provide reliable and efficient power to pump systems, available in various power ratings and sizes.

“Frequency inverters are another critical component,” says Lewis. “These offer precise control over motor speed and torque, and this will improve the performance and energy efficiency of pump systems.”

In addition, SEW-EURODRIVE provides decentralised drive systems that are ideal for modular pump systems, offering flexibility and ease of installation. These decentralised systems simplify the design and implementation process by eliminating the need for complex central control panels and extensive cabling.

This modular approach allows for easier scalability, enabling users to expand or modify their pump setups with less disruption. By reducing the overall cost and complexity of pump setups, decentralised drive systems facilitate quicker installation times and improved system reliability, making them a highly efficient solution for modern pumping applications.

Commenting on market conditions, Lewis says the pump market in Africa is experiencing several key trends, mirroring global developments. “There is a growing emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability, and this is driving the adoption of more efficient drive technologies, which is why we continue to see an increase in demand both from local pump original equipment manufacturers, as well as from end-users who are retrofitting newer technology to their pumping systems.”

“The increasing demand for automated and smart pumping solutions is also evident, with customers looking to leverage advanced technologies for improved performance and cost savings.”

Lewis says that globally, these trends are complemented by a heightened focus on digital transformation, predictive maintenance and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). The African market is steadily aligning with these global trends, driven by the need to enhance productivity and sustainability.

“In response to these trends, SEW-EURODRIVE is at the forefront of developing and deploying innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the market. We are actively incorporating advanced technologies into our product offerings, ensuring our solutions remain relevant and competitive within the pump sector.”

SEW-EURODRIVE’s focus on energy-efficient products, smart drive systems and comprehensive support services positions it as a key player in the pumps sector, both locally and globally.

The company continues to leverage the increasing use of advanced technologies such as AI, Internet of Things and machine learning to enhance its solutions. One example is the integration of smart sensors and connectivity features in its drive systems, enabling real-time data collection and analysis. This technology enables predictive maintenance, reducing unplanned downtime and extending the lifespan of pump systems.

SEW-EURODRIVE has been involved in several projects that demonstrate its expertise and innovation in the pumps sector. Lewis highlights one notable project in the design phase is the implementation of modernised drive systems for a major pumping section at a mine in Africa. This project involves the use of the company’s latest product technology to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the plant’s pumping systems, ensuring reduced energy consumption and maintenance costs.

In another project, SEW-EURODRIVE provided decentralised drive solutions for an agricultural operation, helping to automate and optimise irrigation systems.

“Both projects showcase our capabilities and products, catering to the specific needs of individual applications in different sectors and contributing to cost efficient and sustainable pumping practices,” concludes Lewis.