Pump Technologies

There are two main types of pumps, classified based on their position relative to the water:

• Surface pumps: These are installed above water, typically at the edge of a well, reservoir, or watercourse. They draw water in through suction. Their operation is limited by the suction depth: in practice, they remain effective if the water level is less than 4 to 5 meters below the pump. If the water is deeper, suction becomes insufficient and the pump’s efficiency drops significantly.

• The submersible pump: it is placed directly in the water (well, borehole, cistern). Instead of drawing water, it pushes it to the surface, allowing it to operate even at very deep water levels. → It can be used for virtually any water level, whether the water table is high or very low.

Components of a Pump

Regardless of the type (surface or submersible), a pump always consists of three distinct parts:

1. The motor (DC or AC)

• It provides the mechanical energy needed to drive the pump.
• DC motor (direct current): often used with solar systems or batteries.
• AC motor (alternating current): used on the electrical grid or via an inverter.

2. The drive

• This is the component that connects the motor to the hydraulic section and transmits the rotational motion.
• It can be direct (coupled shaft) or via other mechanisms depending on the design.

3. The hydraulic system

• This is the heart of the pumping system: impellers, pump housing, etc.
• It converts mechanical motion into water flow and pressure, enabling the transfer of water to the point of use (reservoir, irrigation, domestic water supply, etc.)