Guide to Submersible Pumps

Submersible pumps, such as those manufactured by HydroFlo Pumps, are an important component of many industrial applications. This guide from Zone Industries will walk you through the basics you need to know to determine if a submersible pump is right for your application.

What a Submersible Pump Is

Pumps are used to transport liquids from one place to another. All-Flo Pumps submersible pumps differ from other types of pumps because the pump and motor assembly are completely submerged in liquid. Submersible pumps can function while completely submerged because the motor is closely coupled to the pump body and hermetically sealed, forming a water-tight enclosure. Additionally, the enclosure around the motor is usually full of oil. This oil prevents liquid from getting inside the motor and causing a short circuit or other damage.

How a Submersible Pump Works

Because HydroFlo Pumps work by pushing liquid, instead of pulling, they operate very efficiently. The pump uses the head of liquid to do its work without expending any energy to draw fluid into the pump. The pump also saves energy by using the liquid it is submerged in to cool the pump and avoid overheating. The oil and gas industry frequently uses pumps that operate on the Electric Submersible Pumping principle. ESP motors can work under high pressure and temperatures. ESP motors are cost-effective at transporting large volumes of fluids from deep wells but can be expensive to run because of the special electricity cables they require.

Advantages of Submersible Pumps

Crane Pumps submersible pumps are self-priming. Because they run beneath the surface of the liquid being pumped, they do not require priming.

The head pressure of the liquid on the suction end of a submersible pump helps it operate. This makes the pump more efficient and causes it to use less energy, drawing in the fluid than some other types of pumps.

Centrifugal and other positive displacement pumps can be prone to cavitation. Because they are fully submerged, submersible pumps do not have this drawback.

The liquid submersible pumps are submerged in serves as a sound dampener. This makes submersible pumps less noisy than other types of pumps.

Submersible pumps are usually reliable, resist corrosion, and operate efficiently in harsh conditions. They are a good choice for applications that might quickly wear out less durable pumps.

Disadvantages of Submersible Pumps

Anything that is exposed to liquids for long periods will tend to corrode. Additionally, submersible pumps are frequently used to transport abrasive and corrosive liquids. Corrosion can damage the seals and cause leaks and other damage to the motor. Submersible pumps are made from materials that do not corrode easily. These materials cause submersible pumps to be more expensive than other similar pumps.

These pumps need to be inspected frequently so that repairs can be made and the pump’s life can be extended. However, inspections and regular maintenance are made more difficult to perform because many submersible pumps are difficult to access. For this reason, some companies choose to run the pumps until they break and then replace them, rather than maintaining them.

Uses for Submersible Pumps

Because HydroFlo Pumps are compact and inexpensive to install, they are often used in pump and lift stations. This makes these pumps popular choices in the wastewater and grit industry.

Harbors are often dredged with a pump designed specifically to handle liquids with high solid content, called a vertical pump. Seagoing ships also use these pumps for barge unloading and onboard flooding applications.

Grinder and other submersible pumps can be used to convert sewage material to easily handled particles. These pumps are capable of transporting sewage downstream for treatment without obstruction from entry to discharge.

The oil and gas industry often uses ESP submersible pumps to move oil to the surface from oil wells. The vertical turbine pump is frequently used in water wells and boreholes to transport water to the surface.

Choosing the Right Pump for Your Needs

HydroFlo Pumps can be a good choice for many applications that involve moving liquids that are corrosive or abrasive or contain a high level of solids. The team at Zone Industries can help you choose the right pump for your application. Call us at 713-783-8530 or fill out our online form to get more information or request a quote. 

Guide to Submersible Pumps | Zone Industries