Choose the right wastewater pump technology for your specific application. From submersible designs for wet wells to self-priming pumps for dry installations, understand the advantages of each pump type.
Wastewater pumps are classified based on their installation method, operating principles, and design characteristics. The three main categories - submersible, non-submersible, and specialty pumps - each offer distinct advantages for different applications, flow conditions, and maintenance requirements.
Proper pump type selection depends on factors including installation constraints, maintenance accessibility, efficiency requirements, and the specific characteristics of the fluid being pumped. Understanding these pump classifications ensures optimal performance, reliability, and lifecycle cost effectiveness for your wastewater handling system.
| Pump Type | Installation | Maintenance Access | Space Requirements | Typical Efficiency | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Submersible | In wet well | Requires lifting | Minimal | 75-82% | Lift stations, sewage |
| Non-Submersible | Dry pit/surface | Direct access | Requires pump room | 80-88% | Treatment plants, high flows |
| Specialty | Varies by design | Design specific | Application dependent | 70-85% | Challenging fluids, solids |
Motor and pump assembly designed for complete submersion in the fluid being pumped. Ideal for wet well installations where space is limited and quiet operation is important.
Cutting mechanism reduces solids size, ideal for pressure sewer systems and residential applications.
Flow: 10-150 GPMHandle raw sewage with 2-3 inch solids passage, designed for municipal lift stations.
Flow: 50-2,000 GPMPump clarified effluent and treated wastewater with minimal solids content.
Flow: 25-500 GPMHeavy-duty designs for high solids content and abrasive applications.
Flow: 100-3,000 GPMInstalled in dry locations such as pump stations or equipment rooms. Offer superior maintenance access and typically higher efficiency ratings for large capacity applications.
Automatically evacuate air to establish suction lift, ideal for above-ground installations.
Flow: 50-1,500 GPMInstalled in dedicated pump stations with flooded suction conditions.
Flow: 500-10,000 GPMMulti-stage designs for high head applications, commonly used in large treatment plants.
Flow: 200-5,000 GPMSpecialized designs for challenging applications including high-solids content, abrasive materials, or specific industry requirements. Often feature unique operating principles or construction materials.
Pump efficiency varies significantly with flow rate and pump type. Non-submersible pumps typically achieve the highest peak efficiencies, while specialty pumps may sacrifice some efficiency for improved solids handling capability.