Written on July 18th 2024 by James Blake
Operating in high-altitude environments like the Rocky Mountains requires more than just durable equipment — it demands precise system design. When it comes to pumps, altitude can impact everything from performance to reliability.
Here are five key factors to consider:
At higher elevations, atmospheric pressure drops — which directly impacts Net Positive Suction Head Available (NPSHa). This means your pump is more prone to cavitation if you don’t account for the lower pressure. To compensate, you may need to adjust suction piping, raise the source tank, or select a pump that performs well with reduced NPSHa.
Motor-driven pumps may not deliver full nameplate performance at altitude. Electric motors and diesel engines can require derating — reducing their rated output — due to thinner air and decreased cooling efficiency.
At higher elevations and lower temps, fluids may behave differently. Viscosity can increase, and vapor pressure may drop, which can influence pump selection, especially for lubrication or chemical applications.
Mechanical seals and packing may experience altered performance at high altitudes, especially in applications involving pressurized systems or volatile chemicals. Choose seals rated for your altitude and pressure range to prevent leaks and premature wear.
Altitude is just one variable. Cold temps, remote access, and utility limitations also play a role. Working with a supplier who understands local conditions (like Alpine Industries!) ensures you get the right pump and system — without costly surprises.
Need help specifying a pump for your high-altitude site?
[Contact Alpine Industries »]
Written on May 12th 2023 by James Blake
If you’re operating in the Rockies, you already know the cold can be brutal on equipment. But one of the most overlooked threats? Poor lubrication performance.
Here’s how to keep your equipment running smoothly when the temperature drops.
Standard oils and greases can thicken or congeal in freezing temperatures, reducing flow and protection. Always check the lubricant’s pour point and select a product rated for your site’s lowest expected temperature.
In extreme cold, even the right lubricant may need help. Install lubricant heaters or warmers on tanks, lines, or reservoirs to maintain proper flow. This is especially critical for startup conditions when moving parts are most vulnerable.
Don’t let exposed lines freeze. Use insulation, heat trace systems, or indoor enclosures to protect exposed grease or oil lines. If your lubrication system feeds critical bearings or gearboxes, a frozen line can cause catastrophic failure.
Centralized lube systems reduce exposure, simplify maintenance, and ensure consistent delivery — even in cold environments. Systems with auto-purge and monitoring can prevent downtime from blockages or missed lube points.
Cold-weather operation demands vigilance. Check for frost damage, slow response, or thickened grease at fittings. A quick daily walkaround can prevent long-term issues.
Ready to upgrade your lubrication systems for the winter ahead?
Talk to Alpine Industries about cold-weather-ready components and design.
Written on March 25th 2022 by James Blake
Whether you're upgrading your fluid handling system or building from scratch, one key decision often comes early: should you go with an equipment specific skid package or a built-in-place (BIP) system?
Each option has pros and cons — here's how to decide what fits your site best.
A skid is a pre-engineered, factory-assembled equipment system mounted to a frame or base. It typically includes pumps, motors, controls, piping, and instrumentation — all built, tested, and ready to install.
Plug-and-play installation – Skids arrive preassembled, often pre-tested, making installation quick.
Smaller site labor footprint – Minimal field assembly reduces contractor time and site disruptions.
Standardized quality – Shop-fabricated systems allow tighter tolerances, better QC, and fewer surprises.
Faster project timelines – Parallel construction (site and skid) speeds up deployment.
BIP systems are field-assembled setups, often involving separate contractors installing individual components onsite.
Flexibility – Easily adapted to unusual spaces or evolving needs.
Lower up-front costs – May be cheaper if you already have existing infrastructure or skilled labor on-site.
Modular retrofits – Useful when modifying parts of an existing system.
Choose a Custom Skid if:
You’re working under tight timelines
You want a turnkey system with known performance
Your site has limited skilled labor
You need offsite QA/QC and minimal rework
Choose Built-In-Place if:
Your system is complex and evolving
You need to use existing piping or infrastructure
You have full-time maintenance staff or onsite engineers
Still unsure?
Let’s review your process and site needs to recommend the best-fit solution. Alpine Industries specializes pump supporting equipment and can walk you through the trade-offs.