Importance of Sump Pumps for Dewatering and How They Work

Sump pumps are the most vital pieces of machinery for dewatering applications across many industries. Mostly powered by electricity, these pumps can be placed above ground or in basements in low-lying areas where properties are more prone to flooding and often at construction sites to remove surface or groundwater. Sump pumps are small investments with distinct advantages, which we at Prochem Chemical Pump Manufacturers would like to outline for you.

HOW SUMP PUMPS DETECT RISING WATER LEVELS

Sump pumps have mechanisms that detect rising water levels, turning the pump on automatically when the water level reaches a certain point and deactivating it when the levels fall. As the pit fills with water, sump pumps move the water through piping systems away from the flooded area through spinning impellers. Water typically moves towards the pit where the impellers will force the water through the pipes. A one-way valve system normally keeps the water from flowing back into the pit.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF SUMP PUMPS

Here are a few different types of sump pumps:

1. Pedestal Pumps

Placed on the floor, pedestal pumps keep away from the water even when the pit is full. The intake valve on pedestal pumps is situated at the bottom of the pump, which sits in the pit, with the motor housed on top. Inlet pipes from the pump reach into the bottom of the pit to push the water out. As these pumps are outside of the water they are pumping, they tend to be noisy.

A distinct advantage that these pumps have is that as the motor isn’t submerged, they have a longer lifespan and can be easily accessed for maintenance. What you need to bear in mind with pedestal sump pumps is that they are unable to handle particles or solids.

2. Submersible

As the name suggests, submersible pumps are placed in the water that is being pumped. As water fills the pit, it is drawn through the pump’s intake valve, forced through the impeller, and discharged through an outlet valve, which is then connected to a piping system. To keep debris out, cover the bottom of the pump with a flat-screen or grate. An advantage of submersible pumps is that as they are completely submerged in water, they produce less noise, making them ideal for residential and commercial properties.

As maintenance of these pumps is problematic, they are hermetically sealed in a waterproof housing to reduce the risk of motor damage from possible water infiltration. Submersible pumps are also less likely to overheat and are self-priming.

ADVANTAGES OF SUMP PUMPS FOR INDUSTRY

Industries rely on sump pumps to remove water from pipelines and various high-pressure systems. Installed at large buildings, they are vital in the removal of excess stormwater and industrial sewage. As submersible sump pumps can drain water with particles, they are commonly used in basements and tunnels, and at excavation sites. In construction, these pumps play a pivotal role in directing water away from the site to a discharge point.

As sump pumps rely on electricity to operate, it is advisable to have a backup power supply. Generators or batteries will keep your pump running during power outages.

LEADING PUMP MANUFACTURERS

For almost 40 years, we at Prochem Chemical Pump Manufacturers have been designing and manufacturing pumps and pumping equipment. Even though our principal range lies in chemical handling pumps, we supply a comprehensive range of filtrate pumps for water transfer and circulation. Contact us for advice on the right type of submersible or pedestal pump for your specific dewatering requirements.