Sump, sewage, and effluent pumps are essential components in managing residential and commercial wastewater. These pumps come in various types and sizes, each designed to handle specific flow rates and head pressures. When selecting a pump, professionals must consider several factors, including pump type, pump size, total dynamic head, and basin size, to ensure the selected pump is appropriately sized and capable of handling the required flow rates and head pressures.
Pump Types: Sump, Sewage, and Effluent
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are typically used for removing groundwater from a sump basin. They are designed to handle clear water, such as rainwater or groundwater, and are not suitable for handling sewage or effluent. Sump pumps are often installed in the basement or lowest level of a building to prevent flooding.
Sewage Pumps
Sewage pumps are designed to handle sewage waste from a basement or lower level of a building. They are capable of handling solids and can be used in applications where a sump pump would not be suitable, such as in a septic system or a municipal sewer system.
Effluent Pumps
Effluent pumps are designed to handle the effluent from a septic tank or treatment system. They are typically used to pump the treated wastewater from the septic tank or treatment system to a drainfield or other disposal system.
Pump Size and Selection
The size of the pump is determined by the flow rate and head pressure required for the application. For example, a pump with a higher flow rate and head pressure is needed for a high groundwater level or a larger basin.
When selecting a pump, professionals must consider the following factors:
- Flow Rate: The pump must be capable of handling the maximum expected flow rate, which can be determined from Table I or metered water use data.
- Total Dynamic Head (TDH): TDH is the total height a pump must lift or push water, including the vertical lift from the pump to the discharge point, friction loss in the pipes, and any additional pressure requirements.
- Basin Size: The size of the basin can affect the pump selection. A smaller basin may require a pump with a diaphragm switch, which has no moving parts, to prevent clogging and ensure reliable operation.
Minimum Design Flows
When sizing a pump, professionals must consider the minimum design flows for systems serving any structure, building, or group of buildings. These flows are based on the estimated daily sewage flow, which can be determined from Table I or metered water use data.
For commercial establishments, the minimum design flows are based on the estimated sewage flows from Table I or metered water use data. For example, the estimated sewage flow for bathroom waste only in an airport, bus terminal, train station, port, or dock facility is 4 gallons per passenger per day.
When multiple strategies are used to reduce the total estimated sewage flow or the drainfield size, only one reduction method can be credited.
Pump Performance Characteristics
Sump, sewage, and effluent pumps have various performance characteristics that must be considered when selecting the appropriate pump for an application. These characteristics include:
- Flow Rate: The maximum flow rate the pump can handle, typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM).
- Total Dynamic Head (TDH): The total height the pump can lift the water, including the vertical lift, friction losses, and any additional pressure requirements, typically measured in feet (ft).
- Power: The electrical power required to operate the pump, typically measured in horsepower (HP) or watts (W).
- Impeller Type: The design of the impeller, which can affect the pump’s ability to handle solids and prevent clogging.
- Discharge Size: The size of the pump’s discharge port, which must match the size of the piping in the system.
- Voltage and Phase: The electrical requirements of the pump, which must be compatible with the power source.
- Pump Material: The materials used in the construction of the pump, which can affect its durability and corrosion resistance.
Conclusion
By carefully considering the factors discussed in this guide, professionals can ensure that the selected sump, sewage, or effluent pump is appropriately sized and capable of handling the required flow rates and head pressures. This will help to ensure the reliable and efficient operation of the wastewater management system.
References:
- Sump, Sewage and Effluent Pump Sizing – webinar – YouTube
- Sump, Effluent, & Sewage Pumps: Tips for Selecting the Correct …
- 64e-6.pdf – Florida Department of Health
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