Submersible Sump Pump
Overview
A submersible sump pump is an electrically powered device specifically designed for installation in sump pits or basins that are usually located below ground level. Its primary purpose is to automatically remove accumulated water by pumping it to a designated discharge point, thereby preventing flooding or water accumulation.
Within water and wastewater treatment plants, submersible sump pumps are fully immersed in the liquid they're tasked to remove, making them highly efficient for dewatering, drainage, and groundwater control. Their automatic operation and robust construction allow for reliable handling of influent, effluent, stormwater, and even sludge in challenging plant environments.
Common Applications
- Wet wells handling influent, effluent, sludge, or stormwater.
- Equipment vaults or pits prone to water accumulation.
- Drainage sumps within plant containment areas.
- Lift stations transferring sewage or wastewater between elevations.
- Emergency dewatering points, such as those around tank bases.
Operator Experience
- Regular inspection of pump for noise and vibration issues.
- Routine verification of float switch or level sensor operation.
- Daily to annual checks and documentation of sump water levels.
- Monitoring of control panel and alarms for power or system faults.
- Cleaning of pump inlets, removal of debris, and ensuring electrical connections are secure.
- Lubrication and seal maintenance per manufacturer's instructions.
- Adhering to lockout/tagout safety protocols and checking for seal failure or water intrusion.
Major Components
- Pump Motor (Submersible): Sealed, submerged, chosen for voltage, power, and safety rating.
- Impeller: Moves water efficiently; design optimized for solids (open, enclosed; cast iron/stainless steel).
- Pump Casing/Volute: Houses flow and manages pressure; selected for chemical and abrasion resistance.
- Float Switch or Level Sensor: Automates operation with adjustable range; ensures reliable start/stop.
- Discharge Connection/Piping: Conducts discharged water; selected for size, material, and connection type.
- Sealing System (Mechanical Seal/O-rings): Prevents water intrusion into motor, chosen for chemical resistance/durability.
Design Criteria
- Flow Rate: Typically 5–500 gpm depending on application.
- Total Dynamic Head (TDH): 10–100 ft based on elevation/piping.
- Solids Size Handling: 1/2"–2" (larger for sludge, smaller for clear water).
- Motor Power: 0.3–10 hp common in treatment plants.
- Pump Material: Selectable for chemical resistance (cast iron, stainless steel, bronze).
- Electrical Supply: 120/240/480V; single- or three-phase as required.
Key Design Decisions
Specification Section
- MasterFormat Division: 22 14 29 (Sump Pumps)
- Related: 43 21 39 (Packaged Water Pumping Stations) when supplied as a skid
Submittal + Construction Considerations
Popular Manufacturers and Models
- Xylem (Flygt): Flygt 2870 Submersible Pump
- Pentair (Myers): Myers VSX50 Series
- Grundfos: Grundfos Unilift AP Series
Alternative Equipment
- Vertical Sump Pump: Motor remains dry and accessible, making maintenance easier, but not ideal for submerged locations and requires more installation space.
- Dry Pit Submersible Pump: Combines submersible pump hydraulics with dry installation for easier servicing and safer electrical separation but involves higher installation costs due to more complex pit design.
- Sewage Ejector Pump: Optimized for high-solids sewage handling with rugged impellers; not suited for finer, low-flow sump or clear-water applications.
Real-World Tips
Connect with a Local Distributor
If you need help with sizing, system compatibility, maintenance planning, or sourcing, connect with your local manufacturer's representative. They can assist you in selecting the right equipment for your specific application and site conditions.
