The LB-1500 has a 1.5kW power rating, a 17.5 metre maximum head and a 440 litres per minute maximum capacity. It is an extension of the existing range which already lists four smaller models – two at 480W and two at 750W.
One of the first companies to stock the LB-1500 will be the Belgium based company, Marine Motors & Pumps NV. The pump specialist has been Tsurumi's sole Belgian distributor for nearly 30 years and was among the first European companies to start selling the brand. Managing Director Johan Dekker has already seen the new Tsurumi LB-1500 first-hand and is keen to incorporate it into his product offering as soon as possible. "I have placed an order for it as soon as it becomes available and we look forward to having it on our shelves within the next month," explained Dekker.
Mr. Dekker's first impressions of the LB-1500 were that it is a sturdy model with specially designed handles that attach in such a way so as not to block the discharge point. It also has the added benefit of a compact shape which means it can fit more easily inside pipes. "As the LB-1500 is a single phase pump with a nice amount of head and good volume displacement capabilities we think it will be suitable for many general dewatering applications," he said. "We will recommend it to customers who ask for open dewatering on building sites, or for contractors working with small generating sets in roadside locations, such as telephone repair companies or for general cleaning of water pipes and drains."
Tsurumi pumps are the only submersible pumps offered by Marine Motors & Pumps. The company stocks the entire range of Tsurumi products, from the smallest pumps up to the larger KRS slurry pumps as well as aerators and skimmers. Turnover is currently split equally between the sales and rental sides of the business. "We have seen rental increasing more rapidly than sales as customer attitudes towards renting have changed for the better," admitted Dekker. "Our customers realise that they can choose the exact type of pump to suit the requirements of the job, they can rent for only as long as they need to, they always get the latest technology and we repair or replace pumps in case of failure. It makes economic sense."
Tsurumi pumps have always formed the backbone of the Marine Motors & Pumps rental fleet accounting for 66% of all rental deals. "Our customers know that Tsurumi stands for excellent quality, resistance to abrasion and good dry-running performance," said Dekker. "And we can demonstrate to them that Tsurumi pumps are reliable and highly cost efficient to own and run."
The LB-1500 will be officially unveiled at Bauma 2007 in Munich in April. During the week long show visitors will be able to see the new pump first hand, along with other recent additions to the Tsurumi range, including the HS3.75S – a 0.75kW pump with three inch discharge, and the HSD2.55S – a two inch discharge, 0.55kW pump equipped with an agitator to pump slurry and sludge. All Tsurumi products will be displayed on the company's stand, number 332 in Hall A6.
