Centrifugal Dredge Pump Basics: Things to Consider When Purchasing Pump for Dredging Project

There are many things to consider before purchasing a Dredge pump for a water system.

Introduction

Anyone looking to buy a new pump for their water system needs to answer several questions before considering any recommendations from the manufacturer. Below are some important points to keep in mind.

What will be pumped?

This is a fundamental question. Not all fluids can be pumped using a centrifugal pump. There are four types of pumps commonly encountered in water systems: clean water pumps, gray water pumps, sewage pumps, and saltwater pumps. The latter is often used for pumping other chemically reactive media and, therefore, is made from durable materials. Stainless steel is typically used for pumping drinking water. Pro tip: For saltwater pumps, an anode block should be installed on the pump to prevent corrosion.

What is the required flow rate?

The amount of water to be pumped (in liters per minute or cubic meters per hour) is usually the determining factor in determining the required pump output. Each pump covers a range of operation and has an optimum value, which is why there are so many types of pumps available. For example, the market leader Tsurumi offers approximately 800 different models. The flow rate of gray water pumps can reach up to 30 m3/min. Don't forget to consider the diameter of the pipes through which the water flow needs to pass. Pro tip: Choose a pump with a lower speed as they are less prone to wear and tear.

How high/far does the medium need to be pumped?

This question is related to the previous one. For centrifugal pumps, as the pumping height increases, the flow rate decreases. The main factor here is the absolute height difference between the upper and lower water levels (total head). High-pressure pumps can pump up to 200 meters or more. The same principle applies to situations where the horizontal distance is very large (i.e., the distance is very far). Pro tip: Two identical pumps can be operated in series - the second pump acting as a booster pump, almost doubling the output (total head).

Will it "snore"?

This is what experts refer to as the pump not only sucking in water but also occasionally sucking in air, resulting in a sound similar to snoring. This can occur, for example, when the water level is too low in certain situations. This is crucial for many pumps as they can quickly overheat when pumping insufficient media. Pro tip: Ensure that the pump has a dry run protection feature - this will enable them to withstand this kind of stress.

Will the water flow vary?

If the pump is not needed frequently, pumps equipped with permanent liquid level sensors are a solution as they can switch on and off automatically. Electrode sensors are much more reliable than mechanical contact switches. Additionally, external control devices can also be used. Pro tip: Frequency converters can ensure smooth start-ups, prevent pressure fluctuations, and balance multi-pump systems.

Does the pumped medium contain solid substances?

This question is particularly important when considering Grey water pumps and sewage pumps, as each gray water pump can only handle a certain amount of solid substances. If these substances are in particulate form, such as gray water, the perforation size of the pump's filter screen indicates which particles can still pass through; some particles can be up to 30 millimeters in size. Compared to other pumps, sewage pumps tend to clog faster, which is why they need impellers with cutting blades that can even cut through intertwined fibers. Pro tip: When pumping viscous media, a mixer should be used before the suction inlet to ensure smoother flow of these substances.

And also some pump need to handle sand gravel slurry etc, need to consider the pump can pass through the particle and also including the branches .

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What is the temperature of the pumped medium?

The pump's temperature is typically around 40¡ãC for most media, but it can reach higher temperatures within the process. In such cases, customized solutions are required. Important design features include the heat dissipation process and seals. Pumps with top discharge or volute pumps will dissipate more heat. Pro tip: Do not operate the pump beyond the specified limits for thermal operation.

Electrical connections?

Centrifugal pump drive equipment requires different voltage ranges. The higher the voltage range, the higher the connected load, so appropriate connections need to be made on-site. In many cases, the starting current of the pump (which can be very high!) is not taken into account, especially when using a generator set. The operating voltage for most pumps is single-phase 230 volts or three-phase 400 volts. They are connected either with a direct starter or a star-delta starter. Pro tip: Only use pumps certified by APEX in potentially explosive areas.

Installation and operation?

Some pumps can only be installed in dry environments at the pump station, while submersible pumps operate immersed in the medium. The maximum immersion depth is usually clearly stated in the pump's datasheet. Some pumps can even be installed in dry environments; just inquire if they are suitable for permanent operation. Pro tip: Ensure that the pump has a centrifugal oil lubrication system as these pumps work perfectly in both horizontal and vertical installation positions.

Whether to perform maintenance work yourself depends on your personal skills and level of experience. For some common maintenance tasks, such as replacing impellers or cleaning filters, some people may choose to perform maintenance on-site to save on repair costs and minimize downtime. However, for more complex repair work or tasks that require special skills and specialized equipment, it is generally recommended to rely on trained professionals or the manufacturer's service team. They have the expertise and tools necessary to ensure proper maintenance and minimize the risk of further damage. It's important to assess your own capabilities and determine if you have the necessary knowledge and resources to carry out maintenance tasks effectively and safely.