Selection and Design of High-Volume, Low-Head Pumps

The design of pumping stations for drainage facilities involves the selection of the correct type of pump from the many that utilize centrifugal action. It must also be decided whether to mount the pump vertically or horizontally. With these decisions made, one must design the intake system and the discharge system on the basis of the method for powering the pump and transmitting the power from the prime mover to the pump shaft. Many of these decisions can be reached by the use of good judgment, but more of them depend on detailed investigation and study. When these studies have been completed, a sound plan should be evolved which (1) is capable of some operational flexibility from the design conditions, (2) is economical on a first-cost basis and annual-cost basis, and (3) lend s itself to operation by ordinary skilled labor.