Tapflo CTX-I High Performance Centrifugal Pump

A high-efficiency flanged centrifugal pump with modular design

The CTX-I is the industrial version of Tapflo's CTX high-performance centrifugal pumps, described as the premium series with superior efficiency and low NPSH requirements. Ten sizes from CTX 40-165 to CTX 100-230 have an AISI 316L casing and open impeller, flanged EN 1092-1 connections as standard, and a choice of single or double mechanical seal. The modular design lets parts be interchanged between sizes, which simplifies spares for plants that run several pumps of the series. Tapflo lists high efficiency, a trimmed impeller, low noise and vibration, low NPSH requirement, robust construction with easy maintenance and the choice of single or double seal as the series features, and names chemical, mining, oil and gas, packaging, printing, automotive, machinery and wastewater treatment as industries.

In operation the impeller is connected through a drive shaft to the motor, the liquid enters alongside the axis of rotation and is accelerated radially outward through the casing to the discharge piping. Certificates may vary by material execution, and the pumps are REACH and RoHS compliant.

Technical specifications

Why choose the CTX-I

The shapes of the casing and impeller were optimised through multivariate analysis and many performance tests, and the open impeller can be trimmed to a duty point at constant speed or run at different speeds with a built-on inverter. The inverter also gives overload protection and soft start. A double mechanical seal with pressurised quench liquid is used for abrasive, aggressive or polymerising liquids, and it allows easy leakage control. An inducer screwed onto the impeller lowers the NPSH required, even in existing pumps.

Options and special executions

Optional features are the built-on inverter, adjustable feet for cleaning under the pump, mounting brackets for a fixed baseplate, the inducer and the double seal. The hygienic CTX-H sibling has polished wetted parts and DIN 11851, DIN 32676, SMS 3017, SMS 1145 or RJT connections. Performance curves are published for 2900 rpm 50 Hz, 1450 rpm 50 Hz and 3500 rpm 60 Hz, so state the supply frequency when sizing.

Selection checks before ordering a CTX-I

A centrifugal pump is selected on its duty point, so start with the required flow, total head at that flow, liquid properties and supply frequency. With those values the correct CTX-I size and impeller diameter can be read from the published performance curves, keeping the operating point close to the best efficiency area rather than at the far ends of the curve. Check the available NPSH of the installation against the pump requirement, especially for hot liquids or suction lifts, even though the series is designed for low NPSH.

Liquid data matter as much as hydraulics. Confirm that the liquid is compatible with AISI 316L, choose the seal faces and O-ring elastomer to suit the chemical and temperature, and decide between a single and a double mechanical seal based on how hazardous, crystallising or abrasive the liquid is. Check that viscosity and liquid temperature stay inside the ranges in the specification table, and that the pressure rating of the chosen size covers the maximum system pressure.

Installation and piping practice

Mount the pump and motor on a rigid, level base and align the piping so that no pipe stress is transferred to the casing flanges. Keep the suction line short, straight and at least the size of the pump inlet, with an eccentric reducer installed flat side up where the pipe size changes, to avoid air pockets. Support both suction and discharge pipes independently. Fit isolation valves on both sides, a non-return valve on the discharge where backflow is possible, and pressure gauges so that the operating point can be checked after start-up.

Start-up and routine maintenance

Never run the pump dry: fill the casing and suction line before the first start, check the direction of rotation briefly, then open the discharge valve gradually. Where a built-on inverter is used, set speed limits and ramps so the pump stays within its curve. During operation, watch for seal leakage, unusual noise or vibration, and changes in pressure that suggest wear or blockage. The modular design means seals, impellers and other parts can be stocked for several pump sizes at once, which makes it sensible to keep a seal kit for each plant.

Operating in Omani plants

Desalination, wastewater, mining and process sites in Oman often expose pumps to high ambient heat, dust and salty coastal air. The stainless steel wet end handles corrosive surroundings well, but the motor still needs attention: shade it from direct sun where possible, keep the fan cowl clear of sand, and check that the motor selection allows for the local ambient temperature.

Documents and quotation

The CTX brochure and IOM manual provide the full curve set and dimensions. Send the liquid, temperature, viscosity, flow, head and frequency, plus seal and flange preferences, for a quotation. See other industrial centrifugal pumps or the Grundfos NK for an alternative end-suction pump.