There are numerous options for water pumps: you can buy anything from petrol or diesel-powered water pumps to electric or engine-driven units. Pumps are categorised according to their application. A simple guide can narrow your selection to the most appropriate pump despite the varied options.
Types of pumps
All water and drainage pumps work on the same principle of continuously moving a liquid from one point to another. As a result, they are used in excavations, sewage plants, wells, boreholes and water reservoirs. Some of the common types of water pumps include:
Engine-driven pumps
A petrol or diesel combustion engine powers these pumps. They are popular due to their portability and independence from electricity. Furthermore, the pumps come in various designs and sizes to meet different needs.
Electric powered pumps
Electric pumps are known for their unmatched running times. The pump will keep running as long as there is an electrical supply. As a result, the pumps are primarily used in residential properties to build water pressure. Unfortunately, dependence on electricity limits the pump’s use in remote locations.
Jet pumps
Bores and wells use jet pumps to draw water from the great depths to the ground level. Most pumps are electric, but engine-driven models are available.
Diaphragm pumps
Membrane or diaphragm pumps use positive displacement to create pressure differences that drive fluid through the system. The pump is commonly used in aircraft and automobile industries where abrasive fluids are used.
Pump uses
Water pumps serve several functions; each application has specific needs. For example:
Fire fighting
Water pumps used for fire protection have a sturdy design and can operate without mains electricity. As a result, an independent electrical supply or an engine powers most fire protection pumps. This is a safety feature against power interruptions that occur during fires.
Water transfer
Moving water from one place to another is common in residential properties, construction sites, and agricultural plants. Key considerations include water volume and transfer distance. High-power systems are suitable for large-volume transfers over long distances. On the other hand, standard, medium-sized water pumps are good enough for residential use.
Dirty water clearance
Trash pumps that transfer water with debris have a unique design. They are hardy and have safety features that ensure solid debris doesn’t damage the pump. Trash pumps are popularly used to clear flood water and dewater construction sites.
Pump specifications
Several specifications differentiate water pumps and dictate the ideal application.
Flow rate:This describes how much water a pump can move in a given time. High flow rates are needed for pumps operating at industrial plants and agricultural centres. On the other hand, lower flow rate pumps are great for gardening or other domestic applications.
Max head: This describes how much vertical distance a pump can transfer water. A high maximum head is essential for pumps drawing water from deep wells and boreholes. Furthermore, tall buildings also use high max head water pumps.
Water pressure: The max head directly correlates with the water pressure. By multiplying the max head by 1.42, you can calculate the maximum pressure a water pump can generate. Firefighting pumps have a standard requirement of a maximum pressure above 100PSI. Trash pumps have a lower requirement. Ultimately, it depends on how far you need to transfer the water.
All in all, choosing a pump depends on your application and requirements. There is a pump for every need.
