Submersible Pumps vs Surface Mounted Pumps
Submersible and surface-mounted are two different pump configurations that have unique benefits, making each one suitable for different kinds of applications. Our expert guide will cover the basic differences between the two pump types and their uses.
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps are installed within the medium they are pumping. They are designed to be watertight and are typically constructed from corrosion resistant materials, such as stainless steel, in order to prevent damage from long-term submersion.
Benefits
Equipment Vibration - Due to being completely submerged, these pumps experience fewer vibrations during operation. They therefore operate more quietly, are less likely to have components become loose and are subject to less wear and tear caused by vibrations.
Installation Space - Submersed pumps occupy less space as they are installed directly into the pumped medium; this could be a wet well, tank or natural body of water. This means no additional space has to be allocated from the site for the pump installation.
Energy Efficiency - Because submersible pumps are installed directly into the medium they are pumping, they bypass the need to draw the fluid up and into the body before it can be pumped away. Instead, they use the natural pressure of their submersion depth to intake fluid.
This also means less pipework is needed for the pump to operate, the system will experience less friction loss and overall energy efficiency is increased.
Maintenance - These pumps are much less likely to sustain damage from external factors such as harsh weather and vandalism due to being submerged, leading to lower repairs and maintenance needs, increased operational life and fewer interruptions required for service.
Surface pumps were once favoured for their ease of access, but with the introduction of auto-coupling and guide rail systems, submersible pumps have become more convenient to access. These sets allow submersible pumps to be easily raised and lowered from their point of installation without the need to drain the entire body or chamber of liquid, facilitating quicker and less disruptive maintenance procedures.
Typical Applications
- Groundwater supply
- Drainage
- Sewage Pumping
- Flood protection
- Dredging
Cri-Man PTSH - Submersible Chopper Pump
Features a heavy-duty cutting system for efficient solids handling, ideal for agricultural waste handling.
KTH/S - Corrosion Resistant Pump
A highly corrosion and wear-resistant contractors' pump designed for dewatering in extreme conditions.
Zenit DR Bronze - Durable Electric Pump
Electric pump with a bronze body for long-term submersion into and handling of chemically aggressive liquids.
For controlled lowering and lifting of permanently installed pumps for tanks, sumps and pits; made from 304 stainless steel.
This set consists of a pump pedestal, pump hook and guide rail bracket for safe and easy access to pumps in sumps, pits and tanks.
Surface-Mounted Pumps
Surface mounted pumps are installed outside (and usually above) of the medium they are pumping, drawing the liquid up and into the body before it can be pumped away.
Benefits
Maintenance & Installation
Surface mounted pumps will not experience corrosion from the pumping medium due to being installed outside of it. Because of this they are often cheaper than submersible pumps as they do not require the same level of corrosion-resistant construction materials.
Surface pumps are ultimately quicker and safer for operatives to install, maintain and repair as there is no need for confined space entry or additional auto-coupling and guide rail equipment.
Typical Applications
- Domestic/commercial water transfer from wet well
- Agricultural/groundskeeping irrigation
SCR Range - Engine Driven Pump
Lightweight and powerful pumps that require minimal maintenance and are easily transportable for emergency dewatering.
SAER AP/AL - Self Priming Pump
Durable construction materials and a fully repairable design make this pump perfect for surface-mounted industrial pumping.
Self-priming pump with an open impeller for reliable solids handling in heavy-duty dewatering applications.
Both submersible and surface mounted pumps come in various models that are suitable for different applications such as solids handling and chopping, abrasive liquid pumping, water boosting and viscous medium transfer.
Submersible pumps are the best choice in the majority of applications, but many industrial or hygienic applications may require a surface mounted pump – such as for regular access for cleaning.
For more information on choosing a submersible pump, read How-To: Select a Submersible Pump
Browse T-T’s comprehensive range of pumps and buy online for 5% off your order.
If you need help selecting the most efficient pump model for your application, contact our team by calling +44 (0)1630 647200, emailing [email protected] or completing our surface pump selection form or submersible pump selection form.