Definition of Submersible Pump
A submersible pump is a type of pump designed to operate while entirely submerged in the fluid it is intended to pump. EDDY Pump specializes in manufacturing and selling this particular type of industrial pump. This characteristic distinguishes submersible pumps from other pump types, such as centrifugal pumps, which operate in a dry environment. The main purpose of a submersible pump is to move liquid (which usually includes water, sewage, slurry, etc.) from one location to another, typically from lower elevations to higher elevations or from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration. Submersible slurry pump solutions from EDDY Pump are currently being used in projects on six continents. Additionally, EDDY Pump’s submersible well pumps are critical for a variety of residential and business applications.
Key Characteristics
- Submersion Capability: As the name implies, submersible pumps are designed to work underwater. The motor and pump are housed in a single unit, which is hermetically sealed to prevent water ingress that could cause electrical short circuits and damage to the motor.
- Motor Design: Submersible pumps typically have a sealed motor that is either oil-filled or water-filled to ensure cooling and lubrication. The design helps prevent overheating and allows the pump to function effectively while submerged.
- Impeller Design: The impeller type varies depending on the application. For clear water applications, a single-stage impeller is common. For handling sewage, slurry, or solids, multi-stage impellers or grinder pumps may be used to chop up solid particles.
- Construction Materials: The materials used for constructing submersible pumps are selected based on the fluid being pumped. Common materials include stainless steel, cast iron, and thermoplastics to resist corrosion and abrasion.
Applications
- Water and Wastewater Management: Submersible pumps are extensively used in water and wastewater treatment plants, sewage systems, and drainage systems to transport water and wastewater. Sometimes, these submersible sewage pumps face clogging issues if maintenance is ignored.
- Dewatering: They are employed in construction sites, mines, and flood-prone areas for dewatering purposes, removing accumulated water.
- Industrial Processes: Submersible pumps are used in various industrial applications, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and food and beverage industries, where the fluid needs to be transported or circulated.
- Residential Use: They are also used in residential settings for sump pumps, well pumps, and fountain pumps.
Advantages
- Efficiency: Since submersible pumps are placed directly in the liquid, they don’t require priming, which can lead to increased efficiency and reliability.
- Noise Reduction: Operating underwater helps in significantly reducing noise, making them suitable for residential and noise-sensitive applications.
- Space Saving: Being submerged, these pumps save space and do not require a separate pump house or shelter.
- Reduced Cavitation: The submersion eliminates the risk of cavitation, which is a common problem with surface pumps.
Disadvantages
- Maintenance Complexity: Maintenance can be more complex since the pump must be lifted from the liquid for any servicing or repairs.
- Sealing Issues: Over time, seals can wear out and may need to be replaced to prevent water ingress into the motor.
- Initial Cost: The initial cost of submersible pumps can be higher compared to other types of pumps, though this can be offset by lower maintenance and operational costs in the long run.
In summary, submersible pumps are a versatile and efficient solution for a wide range of fluid handling applications, particularly where the pump must be located within the fluid itself. Their design and operation make them ideal for challenging environments, ensuring reliable and effective performance.