May I ask whether the automatic control program does not allow remote automatic pump startup? Are there any regulations?

Personally, I think it’s possible; as long as proper maintenance and protective measures are in place, this can definitely be implemented! But be careful: once the pump starts, it’s best not to have anyone around, or ensure that no one is handling the pump without proper coordination.

Centrifugal pumps cannot be started remotely; when starting a centrifugal pump, the outlet valve must first be closed, and then it can be gradually opened once pressure is generated – these actions require manual operation on site.

A slow-close valve can be installed at the pump outlet, or variable frequency control can be used, with a control program that links to the liquid level or weight values for interlocking； A liquid level range that starts high and ends low is definitely fine between the lower reported value and the higher reported value

It’s precisely this situation that worries me; are there any regulations that prohibit it?

It’s not a problem of lack of self-control; many important pumps these days have automatic start functions. In some places, safety authorities consider this to be unsafe, but as long as strict rules and procedures for inspection, maintenance, and repair are followed, there is no danger. This is what true process safety entails. There’s also the issue of outlet valves; that’s not a problem anymore. Soft starters, variable frequency drives, dual check valves, HV valves – all of these can be used to solve it. Now, chemical industry complexes have been working on self-starting functions all the time

Generally, this kind of setup uses a self-priming pump, so there is no issue as you mentioned!

That’s indeed how it’s considered; our organization has the same design regulations, mainly for safety reasons. However, when the process requires the pump to start automatically, automatic startup can be designed, but the inspection and protection of the pump will be subject to strict management. As for the specifications, I haven’t seen them yet.

There are two scenarios for starting the pump remotely: 1. There is no requirement for automatic process startup, in order to reduce the workload of operators. 2. The process interlock requires automatic startup; the pump must be started remotely. It is standard practice to start the pump on-site; in reality, it is necessary to go to the site to check the conditions for starting the pump (such as closing valves before starting a centrifugal pump), and everything must be done in accordance with the operating procedures. There are no standards regarding remote pump starting; it is generally determined by the manufacturer’s practices or the requirements of the patent holder. If remote pump startup is required, the following should be ensured: 1. How are the pump-starting conditions for the operating procedures checked/implemented? 2. What are the risks if it starts up accidentally? How to establish procedures to avoid it? Starting the pump remotely requires some investment. For example, in the case of centrifugal pumps, which require the valve to be closed before starting the pump, an HV or XV valve can be installed at the pump’s outlet as a means to start it, with a FIC then used to control the minimum bypass flow rate via the FV. Before starting the pump, close the outlet valve; after the pump is started remotely, it will automatically engage the small reflux line. Once the pump is running, the outlet valve will open automatically after a delay of XX seconds. Once a flow rate is established, the FIC will automatically close the bypass FV valve.