A true pump industry innovator passes
It is with great sadness that the BPMA shares the news that Maurice Yates, who was heavily involved in the Association through its technical committee, various working groups and supporting its Certified Pump Systems Auditor (CSPA) training, passed away on February 2, 2024, at the age of 83.
Maurice made significant contributions to the global pumping industry with his groundbreaking development of the Yatesmeter. This innovative technology revolutionised pump system investigations, leading to advancements in pump remedial work and benefiting numerous manufacturers.
Maurice embarked on his career as an electrical engineer with CEGB (the Central Electricity Generating Board), where he played a vital role in the design teams for constructing 32 power stations during the 1960s. The genesis of his groundbreaking development occurred during an assessment of a 600ft line shaft pump while working at South Staffs Water. Recognising the limitations of existing calibrated information, Maurice began conceptualising and refining measurement technology in the early 1970s, initially with South Staffs Water and later with South West Water, where he served as Group Electrical Engineer.
In the early 1980s, Maurice secured a government grant to commercialise his product and expand his consultancy business, establishing Advanced Energy Monitoring Systems in 1984. Soon after, he successfully introduced the Yatesmeter to pump users and manufacturers, marking a pivotal moment in the industry’s evolution. Maurice Yates’ legacy continues to shape the landscape of the pumping industry, leaving an indelible mark on its history.
