Grundfos has unveiled a new in-house testing facility for submersible pumps at its south Australian headquarters.
The new AU$ 3 million facility has the capacity to test more than 16 000 pumps annually, which includes Grundfos’ largest pumps that span from a maximum peak height of SP 1 to SP215. Grundfos’ submersible pumps contribute to some of Australia’s significant industries, notably the agricultural sector and is used in key areas like groundwater supply, irrigation, groundwater level control and pressure boosting.
By creating a ‘one-stop shop’ to assemble and test locally, Grundfos Australia aims to strengthen its supply chain and bring water solutions to customers in the shortest possible timeframe. Expanding local facilities is also recognised as a sustainable way forward by reducing carbon emissions generated during transportation.
The expanded capacity will also see an increase in the local supply of sustainable products for the agricultural community, including Grundfos’ solar-powered solutions. For example, the SQFlex submersible pump range utilises solar energy to provide an off-grid water supply for stock watering, irrigation, and agricultural water supply and transfer. With Australian farms spending more than double in energy costs over the last decade, solar solutions are expected to play a key role in Australia’s ambition towards net-zero emissions and safeguarding against the ongoing energy crisis.
The opening was attended by delegates from the city of Port Adelaide, Enfield: the Mayor, Claire Boan; Director of City Assets, Mark Buckerfield; Assets Engineer, Thomas Campbell; Team Leader of Economic Development and Tourism, Andrea Satireyo; and Economic Development Officer, Brian Jackway.
Commenting on the milestone, Rick Holland, head of Grundfos Asia Pacific water utility business and executive director, Australia, said: “This test rig is an exciting addition to our local facilities, which means that every pump is tested to international standards locally, allowing us to provide customers a broad range of products with fast delivery times. With sustainability at the core of everything we do, our expanded capacity will not only power our customers’ sustainable operations, but also reduce our own carbon footprint, and we hope to significantly contribute towards Australia’s efforts in taking urgent climate action.”
