We all think that a pump is just a mechanism that transfers liquid or air from one place to the next, and to a certain degree, that is true. But, there is a little more to submersible pumps than we thought. In this article we break down submersible water pumps, what they are, and what types are available.
Simplified Definition
Most pumps pull liquid, but submersible pumps are commonly used in wells to transfer water to the surface by pushing it up.
Completely submerged, the electronic motor is sealed hermetically. To operate, liquids that are accelerated by the impeller, start to lose their kinetic energy when passing through the diffuser.
Here, kinetic energy gets converted to pressure energy flowing up and out of the system.
A significant benefit of submersible pumps is that they can prevent cavitation, which can cause shock waves and damage machinery.
Submersible pumps have many applications. You get single-stage pumps used for sewage and drain purposes and multi-stage pimps used for industrial and municipal purposes.
General Concept
Once the water of a well or borehole, for example, reaches the foot valve, it engages the impeller. Starting to spin, the impeller converts the water’s kinetic energy into speed and sends the water into a diffuser.
Once in the diffuser, the speed is transformed into pressure. This pressure discharges the water through the outlet valve of the pump.
Types of Submersible Pumps
Deep Well Pump
As the name suggests, these pumps are used in wells, going down up to 80 meters in depth. Their stainless-steel outer casing ensures that the pump stays free of corrosion for extended periods.
Stainless Steel Pump
Made from corrosion-resistant steel these pumps have a built-in check valve. This valve will prevent backflow while reducing the risks of water hammer or hydraulic shock.
Water Cooler Submersible Pump
Fish tanks often have smaller versions of these pumps. Freshwater passes through the pump to cool the motor when it is submerged. Typically, this kind of pump gets used for high-quality water.
Crompton Submersible Pump
Made from cast iron, the Crompton pump has a single impeller and can withstand small solid particles passing through it. Often you will find Crompton pumps used in sugar mills and paper plants.
Submersible Utility Pump
Aquarium drainage and stagnant water are the two most popular uses for this multifunctional pump. With the ability to remain submerged underwater for extended periods, this is a popular pump.
Made from cast aluminium, the moulded housing remains free from rust and corrosion. Utility pumps have a pumping capacity of up to 27 GPM.
If you work on a construction site or drain an aquarium, this is the ideal pump.
Oil-Filled Pump
Fitted with an electric motor submerged in oil, you can use this pump for various functions. Since the motor is submerged in oil, it cannot freeze making it suitable for warm and cold environments.
This versatile pump supplies water to mountain areas, irrigation in farmlands, and water supply to hills or houses.
Mixed and Axial Flow Pump
Non-clog and large flow properties of this pump enable it to perform work that requires it to encounter solids and liquids.
Axial pumps will predominantly get utilized for sewage drainage and treatment, as well as river drainage. This pump is very robust and can withstand larger particles flowing through it.
A triple sealing system also prolongs the life cycle of the pump and the pipeline by preventing any leakage.
Bottom Suction Pump
Sucking water from the bottom of a well or swimming pool, for example, this pump comes equipped with a guide sleeve underneath it.
The stator portion of the pump is filled with edible oil to promote cooling and lubrication to the rotor and bearings.
Now that we have a broad overview of all the different submersible pumps available, let’s look at their care and setup needs.
Pump Priming
Priming sounds fancy but in fact, it’s easy. All you need to do to prime a pump to get it ready for use involves dislodging any air inside the system. To do this, you need to fill it up with water.
Air pockets inside the working mechanism of any pump can seriously impair the operation of the pump making priming essential.
Once you have achieved an air-free cavity, you can put the pump to work. There are also self-priming pumps that trap fluids in the pump’s body, preventing them from being discharged when the pump is not in use.
Jordan Pumps
We have all, in some instance or another needed a submersible pump. Whether it is for your pool or your farm, or your child’s first fish tank. We have all been there looking for the best solution.
The next time you find yourself looking for any pump, be it submersible or not, Jordan Pumps has all the equipment you may need.
Established in 2002, Jordan Pumps has grown steadily. We have fast gained a reputation for excellent service guaranteed and quality to boot.
Focussing on the agriculture sector, Jordan Pumps has established a good supplier network sourcing products both locally and internationally to bring our customers a substantial selection and solution.
