Weg motors for largest desalination plant in sub-Saharan Africa 22 June 2012

The recently-opened 55,000 m3/d Trekkopje sea water desalination plant in Namibia is running with the assistance of 62 self-monitoring motors from Weg.

The motors, ranging from 18.5kW to 750kW, drive pumps that are crucial to the plant's reliable operation.

The plant, the largest of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, was designed and built by water treatment specialist Keyplan, part of the Aveng Group.

It converts sea water from the Atlantic Ocean into potable water for use at the large Trekkopje opencast uranium mine.

The desalination process entails abstracting salt water via pipes 1km out to sea, and pumping it to the plant where screening and ultra filtration prepares it for reverse osmosis.

Gavin Lee, Keyplan projects director, says the firm considered several companies for pump motors. However, the Zest Weg Group was chosen because of its expertise and proven quality.

"It is important that the motors complement the application and ensure maximum productivity coupled with minimal maintenance and downtime," he explains.

The 750 kW motors were fitted with soft starters, while the remainder were matched to variable speed drives. All motors were supplied with anti-corrosion coatings, because of the obviously corrosive nature of the environment.

In addition, because the ambient air is very moist due to fog, anti-condensation heaters were fitted in every motor.

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
WEG Electrical Motors (UK) Ltd

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.