Water scarcity is a major concern in many regions due to irregular rainfall patterns and uneven distribution of water resources such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. A submersible pump can be an effective solution, helping homeowners, farmers, and industries access groundwater efficiently.
What is a Submersible Pump?
A submersible pump, also known as a borewell pump, is designed to be fully submerged in water. These pumps are sealed to prevent water ingress and are commonly used in households, farms, industries, and firefighting systems.
Key Components of a Submersible Pump
- AC Electric Motor – Powers the pump.
- Diffuser – Directs the water flow.
- Cable Guard – Protects the wiring.
- Submersible Electric Cable – Supplies power to the motor.
These pumps are installed inside a borewell, which is a deep, narrow hole drilled into the ground. Once powered, the pump lifts water from underground by converting electrical energy into kinetic energy, ensuring a steady water supply.
How to Determine the Volume of Water in a Borewell?
Understanding the water volume in your borewell is crucial for selecting the right pump. This can be calculated using the borewell’s diameter and water height. Here’s how:
- Measure Borewell Diameter – Use a measuring tape to determine the width.
- Determine Water Depth – Lower a weighted string into the borewell until it touches the bottom.
- Mark the Water Level – Pull the string back up and measure the wet portion.
- Calculate Volume – Using basic volume formulas, you can estimate the available water.
Knowing the borewell capacity helps in choosing the right pump size to prevent overuse or inefficiency.
Choosing the Right Borewell Pump
Selecting the correct pump depends on several factors:
1. Borewell Size
- The diameter of the borewell determines the maximum size of the pump that can fit.
- Always select a pump that is smaller than the borewell diameter to ensure proper placement.
2. Total Head (Lift Height)
- This refers to the vertical distance the pump must lift water.
- It is calculated as the difference between the lowest water level and the highest delivery point.
- Pumps with a higher head capacity are needed for deep borewells.
3. Discharge Rate
- This measures how much water the pump can move per minute.
- Higher discharge pumps are needed for large-scale irrigation or multiple household connections.
4. Cooling System
Pumps generate heat during operation and need an efficient cooling system.
Two common types:
- Oil-Cooled Pumps – Suitable for areas with unstable water levels.
- Water-Cooled Pumps – More environmentally friendly and efficient.
Types of Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps come in various types based on application. Some common categories include:
- Open Well Submersible Pumps – Used in shallow water sources like lakes or sumps.
- Borewell Submersible Pumps – Designed for deep borewells, typically 4-inch or 6-inch models.
- Agricultural Submersible Pumps – High-discharge pumps suited for irrigation.
- Firefighting Pumps – High-pressure pumps for emergency fire control.