Brown Brothers Engineers Australia is proud to announce the successful commissioning of the country’s first Hydrovar X, an innovative pump control system that enhances pump performance and efficiency. Launched in July 2024, the Hydrovar X has been installed and commissioned at a major sports park in Victoria, showcasing its advanced capabilities in a real-world setting.

Modern irrigation systems need advanced pump control to meet the increasing demands of precision, water efficiency, and cost reduction. Hydrovar X addresses these challenges through smart energy management, making operations more sustainable and affordable. Installed as part of a large-scale expansion project, the new pump system will be used to irrigate a newly developed sports field.

A Smarter Way to Manage Pumps

Since its introduction in 1995, the Hydrovar variable speed drive has continually updated and improved over time, making it the industry’s choice for optimising fixed speed pump efficiency.

Designed for easy installation and operation, the Hydrovar X simplifies commissioning with its built-in Setup Genie and application software. Users can install it quickly on both new and existing systems, while Bluetooth connectivity allows for convenient remote control, eliminating the need to stay in the pump room.

Remote access allows users to monitor the system in real-time from the field itself, offering greater visibility and control that would be difficult from the pump room. According to Michael Garas, Business Development Manager at Brown Brothers Engineers, “We took full advantage of this capability to monitor the irrigation rotors remotely, ensuring everything was running smoothly before prepping the field for turf”.

Once paired, the Hydrovar X stays connected to your smartphone, allowing easy access across multiple sites without reconfiguring settings. Michael said, “This seamless connectivity lets users manage multiple installations from a single device, whether adjusting parameters or generating service reports via the app”.

Hydrovar X's pipefill mode is another innovative feature, enabling the pump to gradually fill pipes at a reduced speed, which minimises pressure surges and protects the system. Once the pipes are filled, the controller brings the pump up to normal speed. Michael adds: “This gradual filling ensures even fluid distribution, protecting pipes and equipment, ultimately reducing maintenance costs and extending system life. With smoother startups, customers can achieve more reliable and efficient operations right from the start”.

As irrigation systems evolve to meet modern challenges, innovations like the Hydrovar X are critical. With Australia’s first successful commissioning, Brown Brothers Engineers continues to lead innovation in irrigation and pump systems.

Contact us today to see how Hydrovar X can optimise your irrigation systems.

Stay tuned for the full case study on this installation of the first Hydrovar X in Australia, coming soon.

Features & Benefits of Hydrovar X:

• Flexibility: Available in 3 phase power from 2.2 kW to 22 kW, the Hydrovar X is suitable for a wide range of applications
• Sustainable: Delivers superior performance with best-in-class energy efficiency
• Simple to use: Built-in set up Genie and application software simplifies commissioning, programming, and operation
• Comprehensive protection: Integrated safety functions safeguard both pump and motor for long-term reliability
• Multi-pump capability: Supports up to 8 pumps with no single failure point, ensuring uninterrupted operation
• Advanced control: Equipped with an IE5 motor for highest efficiency and extended motor life
• Quick installation: Wiring chamber allows fast access to terminals
• Accessible monitoring: Backlit graphic colour display along with Modbus, BACnet and Bluetooth connectivity using the Smart Phone mobile app access allow for remote access management
• Enhanced version: Hydrovar X+ offers a graphic colour display and extended I/Os for more control options.