DERAGGER+ FAQs
HOW IT WORKS:
So how does a DERAGGER+ work?
The DERAGGER monitors a motor’s power signature – detecting when a rag does not pass through a pump. It then passes the rags by modifying the pump behavior; it slows the pump, reverses it which dislodges the rag, and puts the pump back into forward motion to pass the rag through.
The DERAGGER+ prevents rag balls from forming using this technology, greatly improving overall efficiency.
Is the DERAGGER a mechanical attachment for the pump?
No, it’s a small (4”x4”x1.5”) DIN-rail electronic device that mounts in the control panel of the pump.
How is the DEARGGER different from other anti-ragging devices?
The DERAGGER is the only universal device that monitors the torque or the pump in real time to detect the smallest of rag build up on the impeller. It is sensitive enough to detect when one or two wipes sticks to the inside of the pump, if required.
Does your device just monitor?
No, the DERAGGER also prevents blockages. On detection of a partial blockage the pump will be pause, initiate a pump model-specific & customizable clean cycle, and then will run forward again.
What happens to the rags that it detects?
The rag is “flung” off into the volute of the pump, and because an impeller still provides forward flow even in reverse, the rag passes through the pump and goes onward to the treatment plant.
Doesn’t reversing a pump risk damaging it?
We always set-up a DERAGGER in line with the advice of the pump manufacturer, in terms of timing to slow a pump, reversal and time to restart forward motion again.
In our experience, there is no risk to pumps from doing properly planned and implemented reversal proceedures.
So it’s the same as looking for a high current set-point?
The DERAGGER monitors torque via voltage and current, and is an intelligent device that learns the power curve of the pump therefore is much more advanced than a high current set-point. In fact, running with just a high current set-point can cause issues – see our comparison one-pager here (click for PDF version).
Can’t I just use a timed reversal to do the same thing?
A timed reversal CAN free rags from a pump, but in our experience this can increase risk because a rag ball may have already formed by the time the pump is reversed – and therefore the reversal could cause damage. See our one-pager summary doc here (click for PDF version).
What happens if the DERAGGER can’t remove the blockage?
It will try to perform another clean. If it attempts too many consecutive cleans it will either alarm and keep running, or trip out (whatever the owner’s preference may be). The max number of clean cycle attempts is easily set in the free configuration software.
How does the DERAGGER save energy?
The DERAGGER can save up to a proven 48% by running a clean impeller clean all the times. Not only does running a clean impeller reduce the instantaneous power, it will increase the pump flow rate, meaning run times are significantly reduced, and seal/bearing-destroying vibration is considerably reduced or eliminated.
How does the DERAGGER protect the pump/motor?
The DERAGGER has full IEC 60947 thermal pump protection. It also has over/under current, over/under voltage, current imbalance, phase failure and frequency out of range.
What other functions does the DERAGGER perform?
The DERAGGER has full 3 phase power monitoring built in and a host of included apps. This can be logged via our included Datalogger keypad or sent to SCADA.
Is it one DERAGGER per Pumping Station?
You require one DERAGGER per motor, to be compliant with typical full redundancy requirements.
COMPATIBILITY & INTEGRATION:
Can it work with any sort of pump?
A DERAGGER anti-ragging device can work with nearly all centrifugal pumps – please contact us to find out more.
The technology is applicable in specific non-centrifugal (piston, screw etc.) pumps depending on their design, please contact the factory for additional information.
What is the biggest pump the DERAGGER can be fitted to?
With the standard power modules, it can go up to 800A. However, we can provide custom power modules on request to go much higher than this.
Does it matter if the pumps are dry well or wet well submersibles?
The DERAGGER works well on both dry and wet well applications, and has slightly higher energy savings on dry well.
Do I need a new panel, starter etc.?
A DERAGGER installs into existing or new panels, is quick to set-up and compatible with all starter types, including DOL, VFDs, Soft Starts, etc. In the case of DOL, if no reverse contactor is already present, one may need to be added.
Do I need a new pump starter?
For your convenience, the DERAGGER is designed to plug and play with the existing starter, although across the line installations need a reversing contactor, so if one is not already present it will need to be added.
What starter types does the DERAGGER work with?
The DERAGGER works on all starter types. The one unit covers all pumps up to 800A.
How does the DERAGGER integrate with the controls in the electrical panel?
The DERAGGER uses the start signal to the existing starter to start itself. It has forward and reverse outputs that then control the starter in the appropriate direction. The DERAGGER utilises a volt free Normally Open and Normally Closed contact to replace the fault contact on the existing motor protection.
Can I incorporate the DERAGGER into my SCADA?
Yes, the DERAGGER support Modbus RTU RS485 and Profibus DP to allow control and signals from the DERAGGER to be present on the SCADA system.