Submersible Pumps: What Are They And Are They Worth It?
Whether you’re in need of a pump for an industrial operation or you just need to clear out a flooded basement, submersible pumps are a versatile tool with a variety of applications. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of what a submersible pump is and what their advantages and disadvantages are.
>h2>What is a submersible pump? Submersible pumps are designed to pump fluid in which the pump itself is placed. The term submersible pump doesn’t designate a specific type of pump, but rather, it describes the underlying technology that has a wide range of applications.
Submersible pumps are designed with watertight seals and gaskets, allowing them to be completely submerged without threatening its internal components. Unlike other pumps, submersible pumps don’t use suction to pull the fluid into the system. Instead, it uses direct pressure to push the liquid in, allowing for greater efficiency.
There are two primary types of submersible pumps: vertical and slurry pumps.
Vertical pumps are used for pumping large amounts of clean liquid. Their power allows them to move fluids that other types of pumps wouldn’t be able to move as efficiently.
Slurry pumps, on the other hand, are designed to move fluids contaminated with solids/particles. Used mostly in drainage and dewatering, slurry pumps are effective at moving liquids that most other pumps can’t handle.
What are its applications?
Submersible technology is found in a wide range of pumping applications. It is commonly used for pumping in deep wells.They are frequently used as drainage pumps, sewage, and dewatering; any area that experiences frequent flooding that must be drained.
They are often found in agricultural operations and irrigation systems as well.
What are some advantages of a submersible pump? The major advantage of a submersible pump is its ability to operate while completely submerged. Many other pumps are unable to operate efficiently, if at all, while under those conditions.
The submersible pump’s intake method is also a major advantage. Because the pump uses direct pressure rather than suction, they are generally less susceptible to cavitation, pockets of air inside the pump that damage its components. In addition, this method of intake allows for more efficiency moving liquids over a greater distance.
Unlike other types of pumps that require the fluid they are pumping to be free of contaminants, some submersible pumps are able to pump liquids that contain solid material. This makes them great for drainage systems.
Another advantage submersible pumps offer is self-priming. While other pumps require priming before operating, submersible pumps do not require this step.
Disadvantages?
One disadvantage of a submersible pump is the risk of a ruptured gasket that would compromise its internal components and could lead to failure. If the pump does fail, retrieving it for repairs or replacement may be difficult depending on how deeply submerged it is.While these pumps are incredibly versatile in its applications, they can’t be used for everything. For example, they cannot be used in corrosive environments where there is a risk of corroding away its seals and other components.
Another potential drawback is cost. Generally, submersible pumps are more expensive when compared to their non-submersible counterparts of the same size. However, many people are more than willing to put down a little extra cash in exchange for the additional efficiency and utility.
