Service Knowing No Borders: NETZSCH Ensures Reliable Pump Operation at Remote Mountain Hut

NETZSCH Service: Fast & flexible adaptation during operation

Since the property had no previous experience using wastewater pumps, it took a lot of work to estimate how much the composition and quantity of the wastewater would strain the units. The decision was made to find the optimal solution during operation when selecting the pump technology to ensure reliable wastewater handling over the long term. NETZSCH initially installed two NEMO® progressing cavity pumps, which were flown to the hut by helicopter. They transport the wastewater down into the valley through a two-kilometre-long pipe. Despite the successful installation, problems arose after a few weeks. The operators reported motor damage, for which they could not find an explanation. A NETZSCH service technician was immediately sent to the hut to fix the defect. The cause: Hair had clogged the check valve, causing the pump to leak and run backwards, ultimately damaging the motor. “Unfortunately, it happens only too frequently that guests dispose of items through the toilets that do not belong there, which can cause blockages”, explains Olaf Textor, Head of Global Business Field Customer Service. In addition, hair getting into the wastewater when showering can increase the solids content and cause blockages.

Optimisation of service operations ensures long-term success

“We, therefore, installed a new pump housing with larger flanges during this service call”, explains Textor. This makes cleaning the units easier, and the operators' staff can quickly remove blockages. In addition, the previously used drive was replaced by an electric motor with a brake that the backflow cannot set in motion. The joints were also equipped with silicone sleeves to protect the coupling rods from blockages. These measures not only improve performance but also have a positive effect on the service life of the sewage pumps. Since the motor has to compensate for resistors less frequently, the power balance is improved, making the sewage handling process even more sustainable. At the end of the service call, however, the weather was not cooperating, which prevented the helicopter from flying back the technician and the removed parts. “Our technician was then able to experience the new shelter for himself, having to spend two nights at the hut before the conditions improved enough for a descent on foot. The materials were transported down to the valley with a material ropeway”, says Textor.

Sustainable wastewater solution thanks to service partnership

Thanks to the efforts of NETZSCH and the construction companies involved, the wastewater is now piped down into the valley in an environmentally friendly way without the mountaineers noticing. The hut owners were impressed by the process-optimised technology, particularly the partner's service and support portfolio, which went to great lengths to carry out the service work quickly and efficiently despite the remote location. “This service call once again proved that technology alone is not enough to ensure optimum results in the long term. It is experience, close cooperation and practical adaptations even after the solution is already running that secure the success in such a difficult terrain”, summarises the Head of Global Business Field Customer Service. “It is experience, close cooperation and practical adaptations even after the solution is already running that secure the success in such a difficult terrain.”