Submersible Pumps: Key Steps To Maximise Their Service Life

Compared to other types of pumps in Singapore, submersible pumps get fully immersed in the liquid mediums they transport. Thus, choosing the right submersible pump is crucial as they are designed to be sealed to ensure proper operation and prevent failure. Maintaining this impermeable nature is vital in ensuring their longevity, which can often prove difficult, especially when they are used in applications that experience harsh conditions. By following the key best practices below, operators can guarantee their pumps will last and run optimally for as long as possible.

The Main Factors That Can Affect A Submersible Pump's Lifespan

1. Installation Quality

One of the most critical factors that influence a submersible pump's lifespan is the quality of its installation. Proper and professional installation (ideally by the water pump supplier) ensures the pump operates under optimal conditions and can handle varying pressures and flows more effectively, reducing the risk of mechanical failure. Anything less than this leads to a higher rate of breakdowns and failures of vital parts due to excessive strain, reducing the pump’s overall lifespan.

2. Sedimentation

The presence of sediment and debris in the pumped fluids can drastically affect a submersible pump’s performance and longevity. When fluids contain high levels of sand, grit, or other particulates, these materials can cause abrasions and considerable wear to the pump’s internal components, namely the impeller, bearings, rotational parts, and seals. 

In general, the higher the sedimentation level, the more work the pump needs to do as the debris clogs the pump’s intakes and reduces flow. Over time, this leads to reduced efficiency, increased energy consumption, and eventual failure. To mitigate these effects, regular cleaning, or using filters and screens, is necessary in environments where sedimentation is likely. Alternatively, one could opt for submersible pumps constructed from tougher materials when dealing with an application that handles fluids containing high amounts of sediments, such as in sewage and mining.

3. Construction Materials

The materials used in the construction of a submersible pump significantly impact its resistance to wear and corrosion. These pumps are now usually made from stainless steel, thermoplastics, and cast iron. Each comes with its own unique pros and cons, and choosing the right materials for the intended application is crucial for maximising the pump’s durability. For example, cast iron pumps are the least expensive of the three but are the most highly susceptible to corrosion. Thermoplastic pumps are a step above them with their higher corrosion resistance but lack sufficient durability to handle more heavy-duty operations.

4. Duty Cycle

A submersible pump’s duty cycle, or the amount of time it runs during a given period, also plays a major role in determining its lifespan. Pumps that operate continuously or for extended periods under heavy load are more prone to overheating and wear, especially if they are not designed for continuous duty or even the right fit for the job. Understanding the recommended duty cycle for a specific pump and matching its capacity to its recommended output rate is essential to extend its service life and prevent overheating or overuse.

5. Pump Protection

Pump protectors in submersible pumps essentially shut down the entire machine when certain issues arise to prevent damage and avoidable repairs and replacements. An example is when fluid levels drop, necessitating a shutdown in order to keep the pump from running dry.

6. Power

The amount of power a submersible pump produces can also affect its lifecycle. If the power produced is too little, it will slow down the pump and result in premature wear. Conversely, too much power also leads to the same result as well as overheating. Hence, submersible pumps need to be powered accordingly in relation to the application.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Submersible Pumps

There is a range of best practices for maintaining submersible pumps that allow operators to spot and address issues as early as possible and prevent damage. These include:

• Conduct regular performance testing
  
  Being consistent in testing a pump’s performance, such as regularly examining pressure outputs and flow rates, allows for addressing issues before they develop into bigger problems.
  
  
• Establish a comprehensive maintenance schedule
  
  Adhere to the OEM’s recommended schedules and instructions on their pumps’ maintenance to keep the unit in good working order at all times. These may include lubricating the bearings regularly, evaluating the motor’s insulation, testing its electrical connections, and doing general cleaning to prevent blockages.
  
  
• Replace components on a timely basis
  
  Certain parts of submersible pumps inevitably get worn or damaged over time, namely the seals and O-rings, and thus require replacement to keep the fluids from leaking inside.
  
  
• Watch out for overheating
  
  Much like any other pump, submersible pumps also need adequate ventilation. However, their coolant is the fluid they are immersed in, and so it is vital to keep their intake clear of debris to avoid overheating.
  
  
• Maintain proper pressure settings and fluid level
  
  Pressure in the submersible pump should stay within acceptable ranges according to the application, as any excess adds extra strain that can degrade its lifespan. Similarly, it is critical to have sufficient fluids as it is responsible for cooling the pumps. Therefore, installing a cutoff device is highly recommended to ensure the pump never runs dry.

Conclusion

Extending the lifespan of submersible pumps requires following several best practices to significantly improve the efficiency and durability of the pump. Preventative care not only reduces the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements but also ensures the pump continues to operate reliably over time, maximising its performance and longevity.