Deep well pumps are essential for drawing water from wells with a depth greater than 25 feet. These pumps consist of several parts, each with specific technical specifications that must be understood to ensure proper selection, installation, and maintenance. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricate details of deep well pump parts, providing you with the knowledge and tools to tackle any deep well pump-related challenge.
Understanding Pump Types: Jet Pumps vs. Submersible Pumps
Deep well pumps can be categorized into two main types: jet pumps and submersible pumps. Jet pumps are typically used for shallow wells, while submersible pumps are more suitable for deep wells.
Jet Pumps
For jet pumps, the head of water in feet and pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI) are essential specifications. The head of water refers to the vertical distance between the pump and the water level, while the pressure is determined by the pump’s capacity to lift water against gravity. The relationship between the head and pressure can be illustrated using the following table:
| Jet Size | 1/2 HP | 3/4 HP | 1 HP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1″ | 80 PSI @ 30 ft | 90 PSI @ 40 ft | 100 PSI @ 50 ft |
| 1-1/4″ | 90 PSI @ 40 ft | 100 PSI @ 50 ft | 110 PSI @ 60 ft |
| 1-1/2″ | 100 PSI @ 50 ft | 110 PSI @ 60 ft | 120 PSI @ 70 ft |
This table correlates the head and pressure for different jet sizes and horsepower (HP) ratings, providing a valuable reference for selecting the appropriate jet pump for your well.
Submersible Pumps
For submersible pumps, the pump curve is a critical specification. The pump curve represents the relationship between the flow rate (gallons per minute or GPM) and the pump’s discharge head (feet). By understanding the pump curve, you can determine the appropriate pump size for a specific well depth and water demand. The following image provides a detailed explanation of how to read a pump curve and determine the appropriate pump size based on well depth and horsepower rating:
Well Characteristics and Pump Selection
In addition to the pump’s technical specifications, the well’s characteristics also play a crucial role in pump selection. The well depth, recovery rate, and static water level are essential factors to consider when selecting a deep well pump. These factors can be used to estimate the flow rate and determine the appropriate pump size.
For example, a well with a depth of 200 feet, a recovery rate of 10 GPM, and a static water level of 50 feet would require a different pump size and configuration than a well with a depth of 100 feet, a recovery rate of 20 GPM, and a static water level of 30 feet.
Maintaining Deep Well Pumps
When it comes to deep well pump maintenance, it is essential to monitor the pump’s run time. The pump should run for at least one minute if the motor is under 1 HP and two minutes if it is over 1 HP. Running the pump for shorter periods can lead to premature failure, as demonstrated in the following table:
| Motor Size | Minimum Run Time |
|---|---|
| Under 1 HP | 1 minute |
| Over 1 HP | 2 minutes |
By monitoring the pump’s run time, you can ensure that the pump is operating efficiently and prevent premature failure.
Practical Considerations for Deep Well Pump Installation and Maintenance
While technical specifications are essential, it is equally important to consider the practical aspects of deep well pump installation and maintenance.
Friction Loss in Piping System
When installing a deep well jet pump, it is crucial to account for friction loss in the piping system. Friction loss can significantly reduce the pump’s capacity, and therefore, it is essential to account for this loss when selecting a pump. The following table illustrates the friction loss in feet per 100 feet offset for different pipe sizes:
| Pipe Size | Friction Loss (ft/100 ft) |
|---|---|
| 1″ | 5.2 |
| 1-1/4″ | 2.8 |
| 1-1/2″ | 1.8 |
| 2″ | 0.8 |
By considering the friction loss in the piping system, you can ensure that the pump is appropriately sized and capable of delivering the required flow rate.
Long Tail Pipe Installation
Another practical consideration is the installation of a long tail pipe on deep well jet pumps. A long tail pipe can reduce the pumping capacity to match the well’s flow rate, ensuring that the pump does not lose prime. The source provides a detailed explanation of how to install a long tail pipe and determine the appropriate length based on the well’s characteristics.
Pump Run Time Monitoring
Finally, it is essential to monitor the pump’s run time and ensure that it is running for the appropriate duration. The source provides a detailed explanation of how to estimate the pump’s run time based on the well’s characteristics and the pump’s flow rate. By monitoring the pump’s run time, you can ensure that the pump is operating efficiently and prevent premature failure.
By understanding the technical specifications, well characteristics, and practical considerations, you can ensure that your deep well pump is properly selected, installed, and maintained, leading to a longer lifespan and improved performance.
References:
- A.Y. McDonald Pump Basics
- Diagnosing and Replacing a Submersible Well Pump
- Understanding Submersible Pump Curves
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