BPMA Training Guide 2023

BPMA TRAINING GUIDE

DELIVERING EXCELLENCE THROUGH INDEPENDENT

1.

WHY CHOOSE BPMA TRAINING?

All of our courses have been designed by industry experts to provide support for professionals working in the pump sector, whether you’re just starting or have years of experience. We aim to help you achieve your full potential by adding the knowledge to the day-to-day skills you will have gained through your practical work experience.

We offer courses at beginner, intermediate, and experienced levels, so there’s something for everyone who works within this diverse industry.

Beginning with the basic “Introduction to Pumping Technology” Course perfect for those who are new to the industry through to our suite of Classroom based courses. Also delivered live Online through webinar platforms like Microsoft Teams and Zoom providing the same level of tutor and student interaction as our classroom courses.

For details on all BPMA course dates, prices, availability and to book your place go to www.bpma.org.uk or email: training@bpma.org.uk

GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR BPMA TRAINING

BEGINNERS COURSES:

Our beginner courses provide a solid foundation in pumping technology, focusing on pump basics and their technical aspects. The courses are as follows:

Introduction to Pumping Technology (E-Learning): This online course is the perfect starting point for anyone new to the industry. It covers the basics of pump technology and is a solid foundation for further learning.

Pump Fundamentals (Classroom-Based): This oneday course builds on the knowledge gained from the introduction course and concentrates on correct terminology usage and the more technical aspects of pump technology. This is an essential course delivered regularly at our offices in the West Midlands and online and can also be delivered as a closed course or onsite at your premises.

Pump Systems: This course covers the design and operation of pumping systems, including the use of multiple pumps, control systems, and instrumentation.

Introduction to Hydraulic Design Principles of Centrifugal Pumps: This specialised course covers the hydraulic design principles of centrifugal pumps, including the use of performance curves and system curves and is usually delivered as an on site or closed course.

Pump Repair & Maintenance: This popular two-day course covers the repair and maintenance of pumps, including disassembly, and inspection, and the importance of planned maintenance.

VSD: These courses cover the use of variable speed drives (VSDs) for controlling the speed of pumps, including the benefits and limitations of VSDs. Delivered as 2 one-day courses the basic Introduction to VSD course and a further one day course concentrating on the more advanced aspects of VSD’s.

INTERMEDIATE COURSES: ADVANCED COURSES:

Our intermediate courses are stand-alone one-day courses that are perfect for individuals who have completed the Pump Fundamentals course and are looking to take the next step in their careers. We recommend that students choose one or two of the courses below that best fit their job role or function.

Pump Selection: This course covers the process of selecting the right pump for a specific application, taking into consideration factors such as flow rate, head, and efficiency.

Pump Testing: This course covers the testing and performance analysis of pumps, including the use of test rigs and instruments.

Our advanced courses are for individuals with a good experience in pumps, who have progressed in their careers and who want to be the best in the industry gaining recognition within their company.

The Essentials of Pumping Technology (E-Learning): This 90-hour intensive learning course covers all aspects of pumping technology, from pump basics to advanced topics such as system design and optimisation.

The Certified Pump Systems Auditor Course (CPSA): This four-day residential course, usually held at our offices in West Bromwich, is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct a full pumping system audit to identify energy savings for their company and their customers.

PUMP TECHNOLOGY TRAINING

Are you Looking to give your career a boost in the pumping industry? BPMA Pumping Fundamentals Courses are here to help you rise to the top!

With a booming global economy and a shortage of skilled workers, it's more important than ever for UK companies to invest in their employees' knowledge and expertise. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of courses that cater to all sectors of the industry, from engineering and procurement to maintenance and service.

BPMA courses are tailored to your individual needs, with the option to choose from our suite of courses, you can customise your training to match your career goals, allowing you to create a bespoke program that is just for you, that over time can take you from a novice to a skilled systems professional.

Whether you prefer to learn in person at our West Midlands conference centre or on-site at your workplace, or, through a closed course via a live webinar, we've got you covered. We can even offer bespoke courses engineered to meet your specific requirements.

Invest in your future today and become a leader in the pumping industry with our Pumping Fundamentals Courses.

2.

INTRODUCTION TO PUMPING TECHNOLOGY

Are you new to the world of pumping technology? Or perhaps you only work with pumps occasionally and need a refresher? Our E-learning course covers the basics of pumping technology and is specifically designed for those who are new to pumps or have limited experience with them.

Independently accredited and quality-controlled by the NOCN these courses are offered in accordance with Ofqual (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation). It is thought to be the first such accreditation for the pump sector globally.

The initiative also forms part of the UK government’s educational framework.

WHO ARE THE NOCN AND THE RQF?

NOCN is a market-leading international Awarding Organisation (AO) and Government-approved End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) that has been creating opportunities for 30 years. NOCN Group includes NOCN, NOCN India Skills Foundation, C Skills Awards and One Awards. For more information, go to www.nocn.org.uk

This course is perfect for ancillary staff who work alongside technical and sales colleagues, those involved in administration, accounts or first contact. By understanding pump types, their uses, and the associated terminology, you’ll be better equipped to communicate confidently with colleagues and customers and contribute to the success of your team.

For those who want to further their education, a Level Two NOCN certificate, and a CPD certificate are also available.

To complete this course you will need a score of at least 60% in your final test.

The course has been designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of pumping basics for those new to the field, while still challenging participants to ensure full comprehension.

Starting with an overview of physical properties relevant to pumping, the course covers the selection and appropriate use of different pump types. It also delves into the complex components of a pumping system, and the legal issues that surround the industry.

The course is divided into 16 chapters, with individual tests after each section helping you to monitor your progress and understanding

The final test covers all topics addressed in the course and consists of randomised multiple-choice questions.

Dependent on your score, you’ll receive a pass, a credit, or a distinction, which will be displayed on your BPMA certificate.

COURSE PROGRAM:

• Introduction

• What is a Pump

• Units & Dimensions

• The Pump Family

• Rotodynamic Pumps

• Rotary Positive Displacement

• Reciprocating PD Pumps

• Pumping Issues

• Pumping Systems

• Legal Issues

• Dictionary of Terms

• Conversion Factors

• Suggested Reading

• Final Test Instructions

So what are you waiting for? Sign up now and take the first step towards becoming a pump technology pro!

3. ESSENTIALS OF PUMPING TECHNOLOGY

Are you looking to take your knowledge of pumps to the next level? Look no further than our comprehensive pump technology training course - the first and still the best of its kind anywhere in the world!

Welcome to what we believe is the world’s most comprehensive pump training course!

This challenging course is designed for those who already have a strong basic knowledge of pumps, their differences, and their uses, and who possess a good understanding of standard pumping systems.

If you have an engineering background and are involved in managing or working with pump equipment, comprising any of the following specifying, selling, sourcing, installing, servicing, or maintaining it, then this world-class course is for you.

Divided into easy-to-follow chapters concluding with a test to help you monitor your progress and ensure you have fully understood each concept before moving on to the next chapter.

Following completion of the course, there is a final test with randomised questions taken from a large pool of questions sourced from the course. Dependent on the score achieved you will receive either a pass, credit, or distinction, which will be shown on your BPMA certificate.

For those who want to further their education, a Level Four NOCN certificate, and a CPD certificate are also available.

To complete this course, you’ll need to devote at least 90 hours of study time - but we promise it’ll be worth it!

The course begins with up to 50 pages of Maths and Physics tuition to ensure that every student has the necessary foundation to understand the information covered in this comprehensive program.

The next three chapters dive deep into the liquid flow, pump inlet and outlet conditions. But that’s just the beginning. Chapters 8 through 11 make up the bulk of the course, covering a staggering 230 plus topics on Rotodynamic, PD, Rotary and Reciprocating Pumps.

We also recognise that energy efficiency is key to success in the pumping industry. That’s why our course dedicates meaningful time to energy reduction techniques.

In addition to the technical aspects of pump technology, we cover the often overlooked but incredibly important topic of metallurgy, exploring the complexities of eight forms of corrosion and their effects.

Are you ready to rise to the challenge?

Sign up now and take the first step towards success!

COURSE PROGRAM:

• Pump Basics

• Maths Refresher

• Physics Refresher

• Liquid Flow inc Cavitation

• Inlet Features

• Outlet Features

• Rotodynamic Pumps

• Rotary PD Pumps

• Reciprocating PD Pumps

• Drives & Seals

• Energy

• Legal Issues

• Pump Systems

• Metallurgy

• Pump Selection

• Statutory Requirements

4.

PUMPING FUNDAMENTALS

This engaging course is designed as a follow-on course for those who have completed the Introduction to Pumping Technology e-Learning course or for anyone with a general engineering background. It is ideal for those who are looking to deepen their understanding of pump principles and terminology associated with the pumping of liquids.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The course begins by establishing a strong foundation of the fundamentals of pumps, including how they work, their performance characteristics, and the influence of key design parameters and liquid properties on pump behaviour.

Building on this foundation, the course then explores the complexities of pump operating conditions and the importance of hydraulic performance. Students will gain valuable insights into various pump system characteristics and the reasons behind selecting certain pump types. They will also learn about the interaction between pumps and systems for both single and multiple pump installations, which is critical for effective pump operation.

Additionally, this course equips students with the skills to investigate operating conditions that can cause pump and system operating problems.

Upon completion of this course, students will have a comprehensive knowledge of hydraulic performance and the actions of pumps and their operations. They will be able to identify various pump system characteristics and reasons for selecting certain pump types. They will gain an in-depth understanding of the interaction of pumps and systems for single and multiple pump installations.

Continue your learning journey to unlock the true potential of pumping technology!

AFTER THE COURSE YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:

• Gain improved knowledge of the hydraulic performance and the actions of pumps and their operating limitations

• Identify pump system characteristics and reasons for the use of different pumps for different applications

KEY TOPICS

PUMPS AS MACHINES

• General

• Rotodynamic Pumps

• Positive Displacement Pumps

DEFINITIONS OF LIQUID PROPERTIES & PUMPING TERMINOLOGY

• Basic Concepts

• Flow Continuity

• The Energy Equation

• Pressure loss in Pipes

• The Flow Regime – Laminar & Turbulent Flow

• Understand the interaction of pumps and systems for single and multiple pump installations

• Investigate operating conditions which cause pump and system operating problems

CAVITATION

• System Performance

• Hydraulic Gradient

• System Curve

PUMP PERFORMANCE CURVES

• Rotodynamic Pumps

• Positive Displacement Pumps

• Pump System Characteristics

• System curve and Hydraulic gradient comparison

• Pumps and system intersection

• Series and Parallel operation

5. PUMP SELECTION

This course is for professionals whose job roles involve planning and specifying pumping operations and who need to have a solid understanding of pump selection principles. It is recommended that students who plan to attend this course have completed the Pumping Fundamentals course or have a basic understanding of pumping principles.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This comprehensive course covers the fundamental principles of selecting the best pump to suit a given duty. It is designed to provide students who possess a general engineering or commercial background with a foundation for understanding the issues that need to be considered when selecting pumping equipment.

The course uses a practical approach, with a series of presentations and exercises that illustrate the principles that lie behind the selection process.

AFTER THE COURSE STUDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO:

• Classify and review the differing types and classes of pumping equipment

• Review an efficient exchange of information between the Pump vendor and the pump purchaser

• Identify considerations to be made when selecting additional and ancillary pump equipment

• Undertake selection procedures based on hydraulic and other parameters

• Confidently state the purposes of a quotation and a contract.

THE GENERAL APPROACH TO SELECTING A PUMP

• Selection Process

• Defining the Need

• Collating the Information

• Standard Data Sheets

GROUPING THE DESIRED FEATURES

• Eliminating Unsuitable Pump Types

• Meeting the Hydraulic Requirements

• How to Select a Rotodynamic Pump

• How to Select a PD Pump

HOW TO CHECK FOR

• Installation Requirements

• Compatibility Requirements

• Reviewing the Selection

By the end of this course, students will have a solid understanding of the principles of pump selection and be able to confidently apply this knowledge.

6. PUMP TESTING

This course is ideal for those who want to develop their knowledge and skills related to all aspects of pump performance testing. It is especially beneficial for individuals who are involved in the supply, maintenance, commissioning, and acceptance of new or rehabilitated pumping systems. Previous attendance of the Pumping Fundamentals course or a good understanding of pump basics is a prerequisite for this course.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the various factors that impact the accuracy and reliability of pump performance testing. Participants will learn about the different methods of testing (conventional or thermodynamic) and the standard test rigs that manufacturers may use. The course also covers the installation, limitations, and proper use of various measurement instruments, and how they affect the quality of the data collected.

Additionally, the course examines the different national and international standards enforced for performance testing. This confirms that professional engineers have the necessary skills to assess the performance of the unit. The course also includes group sessions and a worked example to reinforce learning.

AFTER THE COURSE STUDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO:

• Describe the range of common test methods used for each performance criteria

• Understand the standard procedures accepted for testing pump performance

• Describe the critical factors of NPSH required testing

• Understand pump efficiency derived from the temperature difference measured across a pump

• State the standards applicable to the verification of the guarantee

KEY TOPICS

TEST METHODS

• Testing rotodynamic pumps and the standard performance rigs that are used to undertake the assessment

• Test methods

• Cavitation and NPSH

• The thermodynamic method

• Measurement inaccuracy

• Instrument accuracy

• Practical testing point

7. PUMP SYSTEMS

Intended for engineers and technicians who are involved in the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of pumping systems and who want to gain a comprehensive understanding of the key factors that influence the performance and reliability of these systems. Previous attendance of the Pumping Fundamentals course or equivalent knowledge is strongly recommended.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The Pump Systems course provides a practical approach to understanding the design, operation, and optimization of pumping systems. The course covers a range of topics, including system performance analysis, system curves, pipe sizing and friction losses, pump selection, and control strategies.

Through a series of presentations, case studies, and hands-on exercises, participants will gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively design and troubleshoot a wide range of pump systems. The course also highlights the importance of considering the entire system, including pumps, components, and ancillary equipment, to achieve optimal system performance.

AFTER THE COURSE STUDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO:

• Understand the terminology of System, Static, Velocity and Friction head

• Appreciate the special considerations of unsteady flow conditions relating to positive displacement pumps

• Describe a “System Curve” and how it is derived

• Determine the performance in multiple pump operations

• The difference and relationship between NPSH, (NPSH)R and (NPSH)A

• Identify problems that are associated with a poor design

Following the course, students will have a solid understanding of how to design, operate, and maintain efficient and reliable pump systems.

8. HYDRAULIC DESIGN OF CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

This course is designed for individuals who possess a general technical background in pump engineering and are interested in learning about centrifugal pump hydraulic design. Whether you are a trainee hydraulic designer or an experienced professional looking to enhance your skills in pump engineering, this course will provide you with valuable insights into the factors that need to be considered in pump hydraulic design.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This comprehensive course covers the principles of pump hydraulic design through a combination of presentations, exercises, and practical examples. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the hydraulic design process, including the factors that influence pump performance, such as impeller design, volute design, and system characteristics.

This course is unique in that it is typically delivered on-site to companies for whom hydraulic design is an integral part of their product range. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experienced trainers and gain valuable insights into industry best practices.

Prior attendance of Pumping Fundamentals or a good understanding of pump basics is a prerequisite for this course. On completion, students will have the knowledge and skills needed to contribute effectively to pump engineering and hydraulic design projects.

AFTER THE COURSE STUDENTS SHOULD HAVE:

• Gained an understanding of the basic principles of centrifugal pump hydraulic design

• Understand pump performance and the influence of key design parameters

• Be able to evaluate hydraulic aspects of centrifugal pump design

• Assist with pump range planning & development

9. PUMP REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

This comprehensive two-day classroom-based course includes some hands-on training allowing students to gain practical experience in examining pumps and their components. Through exploring common causes of damage and failure, attendees will gain in-depth knowledge and an understanding of pump repairs and maintenance best practices.

This course is suitable for both novice technicians seeking fundamental knowledge of pump repair and maintenance, as well as experienced technicians looking to improve on their skills and stay in touch with industry best practices.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

In this course, students will discover how to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a repair versus the replacement of pump components, as well as the importance of establishing a regular maintenance schedule to prevent equipment failures and extend the life of the pump system.

Through interactive exercises and case studies, attendees will gain an understanding of best practices for maintenance and repair, and how to apply them to their systems. At the end of the course, attendees will have the practical skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement a timely maintenance schedule that will help prolong the life of a system and eliminate costly downtime problems.

The course will cover:

• Health & safety needs in the workshop & onsite

• How to repair equipment to manufacturers’ specifications

• Considerations when looking to fit a VSD Unit

• Typical troubleshooting in Pumping applications

• Cavitation and testing

• Warranty & Commissioning

AFTER THE COURSE STUDENTS WILL UNDERSTAND

• Different types of pumps/impellers/materials

• How to read a typical manufacturer pump nameplate & what you can do if it doesn’t have one attached

• How to dis-assemble and re-assemble to manufacturers specifications

• The different types of mechanical seals & packing

• Booster Sets & Expansion Vessels

• Sewage Pumps & Pump Stations

• Testing / Warranty / Commissioning

• Preventive maintenance, weekly, monthly, quarterly & yearly

• Disposal of equipment

• FAQ’s

10. INTRODUCTION TO VSD

INTRODUCTION TO VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES IN PUMP SYSTEMS. (ONE DAY COURSE)

Pump systems are commonly operated with inefficiencies that result in significant costs to industries and negative environmental impacts. These inefficiencies can vary depending on the specific process and application, but they consistently lead to wasted energy, resulting in substantial financial losses.

One contributing factor to these inefficiencies is the practice of oversizing pump installations. Often, pumps are sized to handle a maximum predicted flow rate that may never occur in practice, leading to unnecessary energy waste and damage to different components of the pump installation.

Addressing and rectifying these inefficiencies is crucial for optimizing energy usage, reducing costs, and easing environmental impact. These courses aim to show through the implementation of efficient pump operation strategies, industries can minimize wasted energy and maximize the performance and longevity of pump systems.

INTENDED AUDIENCE:

This one-day classroom training course is designed for engineers, design or project managers, consultants, energy management professionals, and anyone else interested in gaining a fundamental understanding of Variable Speed Drives (VSD) used in pumping systems. Variable speed drives have emerged as a mature technology that can yield substantial benefits such as cost savings, energy efficiency, and improved reliability when applied appropriately.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

During this one-day VSD training course, participants will delve into the essential concepts of pumps, pump curves, and affinity laws, as pumps are one of the most common applications for VSD systems.

KEY TOPICS

• Understanding of Variable Speed Drives

• Construction and operating principles of a VSD

• The rationale for Variable Speed Drives

• Economic Savings from the Use of Variable Speed Drives

• Other Potential Benefits of Variable Speed Drives

• Types of Variable Speed Drives

• Conclusions on Variable Speed Drives

11. ADVANCED VSD

ADVANCED FEATURES OF VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES. (ONE DAY COURSE)

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This one-day course delves into advanced features of Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) and provides in-depth technical knowledge on the following points, among others:

We examine key considerations when installing VSDs, including motor specifications, VSD input/output control, cable sizing, and cooling of screened cables for control cables and controls.

Pump systems consist of numerous components that collectively affect overall efficiency. These components interact with each other, and standards and regulations are evolving to adopt a more systemfocused approach.

KEY TOPICS

• Major considerations when installing a VSD

• Constant / Variable torque loads

• Filters

• Heat / Vibration / Noise

• Water Hammer

• Slow Fill Mode

• Sensors

• Protocols

• Motors

• Controls

• VSD in Hazardous areas

• Harmonics

• Recycling Information

The primary advantage of a VSD is its ability to match the motor’s energy consumption precisely to the load requirements, resulting in enhanced system efficiency and cost savings by avoiding wasteful energy consumption. The course will also cover topics such as Life Cycle Cost (LCC), different flow and control methods, as well as the advantages and drawbacks of VSDs.

To provide a hands-on learning experience, the course will feature working models from reputable manufacturers such as WEG and Xylem, allowing participants to gain practical experience with VSD technology. By the end of the course, attendees will have a solid understanding of VSD fundamentals and be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their application in pumping systems.

12. THE CERTIFIED PUMP SYSTEM AUDITOR (CPSA) COURSE

Reduce Energy Costs – Conserve power – Save Money

By completing the Certified Pump Systems Auditor (CPSA) course, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to conduct a full pumping system audit. This will enable you to evaluate not only your systems, but also those of others, and identify opportunities for significant energy savings and cost efficiencies.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The CPSA course is designed to equip individuals with a comprehensive understanding of pump system performance and efficiency and covers a wide range of topics, including pump system design, installation, operation, and maintenance. By mastering these essential skills, you will be able to evaluate the whole system and make adjustments where necessary to achieve optimal performance, reduce energy consumption, and save money.

With CPSA certification, you will have the expertise to help your organization achieve its sustainability goals and remain competitive in a rapidly changing business landscape.

Pumps are the largest consumer of global motive power and pumping system improvements can have a reduction of up to 40% in energy costs.

Developed by the BPMA, an established and highly regarded body within the industry and referenced in the UK Government Energy Strategy documents.

The objective of the CPSA initiative is to help improve the levels of professionalism in the sector by creating a universally recognised and respected industry ‘standard’ for individuals assessing the performance of a pumping system ensuring that those who have taken and passed this course can confidently show competence.

BECOMING ACCREDITED TO CPSA

The CPSA Initiative is open to any competent engineer. To successfully achieve full accreditation and the benefits that amass, candidates must:

• Attend a 4-day course and pass a comprehensive examination

• Prove certain levels of experience in the industry

• Show personal development through the completion of recognised education /training programmes

• Demonstrate active involvement in the industry

INCLUDED IN THE CPSA COURSE:

• Attend a Residential 3-day Pumping System requirements and analysis training course and pass an examination

• Attend a 1-day training course covering the ISO 14414 Standard for Energy Assessments of pump systems and Pump System Optimisation.

• CPSA course fees cover the cost of the course, evaluation of the student’s experience and accredited status and visibility on the CPS website.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND AND WHO WILL BENEFIT

Individuals within the industry for whom the qualification will be most beneficial are likely to be:

• Pump engineers (sales, service, commissioning etc)

• Upper and middle management

• Working for a manufacturer, distributor, consultant, contractor or end-user in the pump industry

• Anyone interested in personal growth and is ambitious for advancement in this industry

KEY BENEFITS

• Improve your competitive position

• Become more effective in your role - both within your organisation and the sector by increasing and broadening your knowledge of the industry and demonstrating a more professional approach

• Recognition of your pump industry-specific knowledge

• Enjoy the confidence, success and satisfaction gained by furthering your personal development and growth

• Demonstrate your accomplishment by using the CPSA designation on business cards and other personal documents

ORGANISATIONS

• Equip Staff with a unique qualification for staff specific to the pump industry

• Show industry leadership by encouraging higher levels of professionalism within the sector and help to raise the profile of the ‘supplier’ community

• Compete more effectively by having a better qualified, more knowledgeable professional workforce

• Increase motivation and engagement from key customer-facing employees by developing their skills and encouragement and their own Continual Professional Development (CPD)

• Visibility on the CPSA website www.bpma-cpsa.co.uk allows end-users to find you

CERTIFICATION

Engineers who are trained following the CPSA requirements will receive the following certification:

• A certificate from the BPMA affirming that the engineer has completed a course on the ISO 14414 standard for an energy assessment of a pumping system

FULL CPSA STATUS

• A certificate from the BPMA stating that the engineer has completed a Pump System Optimisation course Engineers who achieve CPSA status will:

• Receive a BPMA Certificate and CPSA photo registration card which identifies that the cardholder is approved to carry out Pump System Audits

• Have your photo and details placed on the CPSA website promoting the initiative, CPSA companies and CPSA-qualified auditors

ALEX YATES

Alex has worked in the field of roto-dynamic performance assessments for over 35 years and has worked in multiple industries, including water utilities, power generation, metal processing, automotive, aerospace/defence, oil and gas and petrochemical.

The objective of this work was to both assess the performance of the plant and to identify deliverable solutions to both significantly improve the reliability of the plant and to reduce the operating costs of the systems.

Alex has also worked on some of the largest pumps in operation, up to 72MW and overseen the testing of 15,000 pumps across the globe.

Over this time, he has assessed pumps, blowers and hydro turbines throughout the world. He now specialises in the assessment of the pump performance and the interaction of multiple unit operations both for series and parallel systems. Over recent years, Alex has started to specialise in optimising and designing integrated pumping systems for multi-system cooling tower networks.

Alex’s knowledge and his work in the field leave him ideally placed to deliver these courses, bringing in a practical understanding from reviewing and working on over 12,000 pump and system assessments.

GARY WILDE

Gary Wilde is the Technical Officer for BPMA and has been employed in that role since 2018 following several roles for Xylem both in the UK and Italy and has over 40 years of pump industry experience, including more than a decade serving on the BPMA’s Circulator Pumps Committee and now adding his voice to Europump standards and BSI committees.

He combines in-depth technical knowledge, sales and marketing skills, along with a strong understanding of all key market sectors, including Manufacturers, Distributors, Installers and end-users.

With his knowledge and experience in all aspects of the pump industry, Gary was well-placed to take over as BPMA’s Principal E-Learning coordinator following the retirement of Melanie Warren in 2023.

For any students taking e-Learning courses, Gary will be your point of contact for any questions or clarification about coursework.

Gary can be contacted at g.wilde@bpma.org.uk or you can call him directly on 07534 700 188.

Our investigations have highlighted that most engineering courses today devote very little of their time to pumps or system hydraulics, hence those students coming out of college or university and entering a career in pumping have a gap in their knowledge, and this is where our pumping technology courses come into their own.

WHY TRAIN WITH US?

At BPMA we take pride in offering Technical Pump courses that cater to all levels of expertise. Our courses are designed by industry experts and delivered by trainers who possess a deep understanding of the subject matter. They are also qualified to answer any questions that arise during the training sessions, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive learning experience.

We are committed to providing our students with the best possible learning opportunities. All of our courses carry accreditation for Continuous Personal Development (CPD), which guarantees that our training programs are of the highest quality.

We understand that a skilled workforce is key to success in any industry, which is why we have developed an extensive training program that we believe supports everyone from apprentices and administration staff to experienced engineers. Our courses are designed to upskill your workforce and foster a culture of continuous improvement, allowing your staff to grow with you and meet the challenges of an ever-changing industry.

• Engaging programmes suitable for all levels and roles

• Cost-effective training that maximizes your training budget

• Modules that focus on learning that can be immediately applied in the workplace

• In-house tailored training specific to your needs and delivered at your site

• Accredited by the UK independent continuing professional development scheme

BESPOKE TRAINING & CONSULTANCY

We also offer bespoke training and consultancy options that can be delivered on-site, whether you have 5 staff or 50. Our experienced trainers can work with you to identify objectives, plan sessions and create course material that is tailored to your products, processes and your delegates' level of expertise.

OVERSEAS

BPMA can and have delivered our Classroom Based courses and bespoke courses onsite to clients based overseas who have several employees who would benefit from BPMA training.

Choose BPMA for pump training that supports your staff and your business.

Check our website www.bpma.org.uk for the latest prices, dates and availability.

JOINT INDUSTRY BOARD (JIB-PMES)

BPMA is delighted to have its E-Learning Training Courses endorsed by the Joint Industry Board for Plumbing Mechanical Engineering Services in England and Wales.

JIB-PMES is an independent and neutral not-forprofit organisation, which partners with the CSCS Registration Scheme, a regulator and a service provider for employers and employees within the building industry.

As a CSCS scheme partner, JIB-PEMS provides Health & Safety Registration SmartCards (or Blue Cards as they are more commonly known) to operatives employed in plumbing and mechanical engineering services and related sectors.

There are a wide range of disciplines and occupations covered by the scheme, but for those whose work includes the installation, servicing and maintenance of pumps, the registration classification for the appropriate Blue Card is ‘Pump Installation & Maintenance Fitter’

BPMA MEMBERSHIP

Just some of the benefits your company can experience with BPMA Membership

DISCOUNTED TRAINING:

Up to 40% off all BPMA courses.

OXFORD ECONOMICS WORLD PUMP MARKET REPORT

This annual report is included free as part of BPMA membership, offering the most up-to-date analysis of the Pump Market, in the UK, Europe and the Rest of the World.

TECHNICAL HELPLINE

Expert advice from BPMA on standards, legislation, European Directives and other technical issues.

REPRESENTATION

Representation of industry views on legislation at government and EU levels.

Strategic partnerships with other Trade Associations including Membership of EUROPUMP.

PUBLICATIONS

20% discount on BSI standards and Many of our technical guides and booklets are free of charge to members.

COURSE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

On this page, you have the opportunity to create a personalized course program that suits your needs. You can record the courses you have already completed and also create a wish list of courses to design your own individualised course program.

Established in 1941, and incorporated as a company limited by guarantee in 2009 the British Pump manufacturers’ Association Limited (BPMA) is a not for profit trade association representing the interests of UK and Irish suppliers of liquid pumps and pumping equipment.

BPMA members account for approximately 85% of the £1 billion plus UK market for pumps and in addition the UK pump industry is a net exporter. BPMA itself is a member of the European Association of Pump Manufacturers (Europump).

BPMA MISSION:

To influence the pump sector business environment in the interests of members’ competitiveness and sustainability and to increase sector awareness by providing technical support and pump technology training to members, operators and purchasers of pumping equipment.