Submersible Pump – Definition, Working, and Applications

A water pump is one of the most important equipment used in domestic and industrial applications to transfer water from one point to another. Depending on the purpose and need of the application, different types of water pumps are used.

This article is meant for explaining one of the popular types of water pumps namely, submersible pump. Here, we will understand what is the submersible pump? How it works? their advantage and applications. So, let’s get started with the basic definition of submersible pump.

What is a Submersible Pump?

As the name implies, a type of water pump which is completely submerged in the water and used to transfer water from one location to another is called a submersible pump.

A most common example of submersible pump is that we see in our desert coolers.

It is also known as electrical submersible pump because it uses an electric motor to transfer water. The electric motor used in the submersible pump is completely sealed and closed-coupled to the pump.

The submersible pumps have high efficiency as they do not require energy to move water inside the pump. Also, they have silent operation and do not require additional cooling mechanism as they are already submerged in the water.

Working of Submersible Pump

Let us now understand how does a submersible pump work and transfer the water or fluid from one location to another.

The submersible pump is a type of multistage centrifugal pump that operates in vertical position. It consists of a device called impeller that accelerates the water or fluid. Due to acceleration, water loses its kinetic energy in the diffuser and thus the kinetic energy is converted into the pressure energy.

The submersible pump is completely dipped in the water or fluid. When the motor of pump is turned on, it pushes the water from reservoir to the surface.

In this process, the water from the reservoir enters into the pump through the foot valve and strikes to the impeller.

The impeller is directly connected to the motor shaft. Hence, it accelerates the water.

In the next stage, the water passes through the diffuser that converts kinetic energy of water into pressure energy. Finally, the water is discharged through the outlet value of the pump at a desirable pressure.

In this way, a submersible pump works to transfer water from one location to another such as from a well to the surface.

Types of Submersible Pumps

There are several types of submersible pumps depending on the application. Some common types of submersible pumps are listed below −

Submersible Well Pumps

These submersible pumps are designed to pump water from wells or borewells to ground.

Submersible Sewage Pumps

These types of submersible pumps are designed to pump waste water or sewage in industrial or municipal works.

Submersible Dewatering Pumps

These types of submersible pumps are used in construction sites, mines, etc. to remove ground water.

Submersible Chemical Pumps

These types of submersible pumps are specially designed to use in chemical industries to process highly corrosive fluids.

Submersible Fountain Pumps

These submersible pumps are specially designed to use in decorative applications such as fountains, ponds, etc.

Advantages of Submersible Pump

Some key benefits of submersible pumps are given below −

• Submersible pumps do not require additional components to pump water or other fluids.

• Submersible pumps have high efficiency than other type of pumps.

• Submersible pumps are free from cavitation problems.

• Submersible pumps are highly energy efficient.

• There is no need of priming in the case of submersible pumps. As they have been already dipped into the water.

• Submersible pumps have a significant lifespan around 8 to 15 years.

• These types of pumps are easy to use due to their small size and light weight.

• Submersible pumps are corrosion resistant and hence need less maintenance and have longer life.

Disadvantages of Submersible Pump

Apart from advantages, the submersible pumps also have some disadvantages. Common disadvantages of submersible pumps are given below −

• As the submersible pumps are submerged into the fluid, hence their maintenance is relatively complex and costlier than standard pumps.

• Submersible pumps can get damaged if they are not properly submerged into the fluid or water.

• Submersible pump is dipped in the water, thus its failure is difficult to detect.

Applications of Submersible Pump

The submersible pumps are widely used in a variety of applications. Some common applications of submersible pumps are given below −

• Agriculture wells and borewells

• Oil wells

• Mines and construction sites

• Drinking water supply systems

• Sewage treatment plants, etc.

Choosing the Right Submersible Pump

The following major factor are to be considered when selecting a right submersible pump for an application −

• Application for which the submersible pump is required.

• Static head or vertical elevation change.

• Information about the length, diameter, and material of the discharge hose.

• Type of electric power available on the installation site.

• Level of suspended solid expected in the fluid to be pumped.

• Maximum flow of discharge by the pump.

These are some key factors that we must consider while selecting a right submersible for a particular application.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a submersible pump is a type of pump used to transfer water or other fluids from one location another. It is called submersible pump because it is completely submerged into the fluid to be pumped. Submersible pumps are commonly used in agricultural and industrial application to pump water and other fluids. These pumps are mainly used due to their compact and completely sealed design and higher efficiency. In this detailed article on submersible pumps, I have explained all the key aspects such as definition, working, advantages, applications, etc. related to the submersible pumps.