What Information Is Needed to Select a Pump?
Define flow, total head, fluid type, density, temperature, solids, suction level, pipe lengths and diameters, and operating duration.
Data Checklist
Send what you have. If a value is not known yet, tell us how the site is laid out and we will help you work it out.
- Required flow (m³/h or L/s)
- Total head, or the elevation difference and the discharge pressure needed
- Fluid type: clean water, groundwater, brine, sludge or other
- Density and temperature of the fluid
- Solids: type and maximum size
- Suction level: water level relative to the pump
- Suction and discharge pipe lengths and diameters
- Fittings, valves and changes of direction in the pipework
- Operating duration: continuous, daily hours or standby
- Site location, power availability and access
What Total Head Includes
Total head includes elevation difference, friction losses and required discharge pressure. The elevation difference is the vertical distance the water is lifted, from the water level at the suction to the point of discharge. Friction losses come from the pipe, hoses, fittings and valves, and rise as flow increases. The required discharge pressure is the pressure the fluid must still have where it leaves the system.
Suction lift is conditional and is not total head: how high a pump can draw water depends on the pump, the fluid temperature, the site altitude and the suction pipework.
The selected pump must meet the flow and total head at the same time. Maximum flow and maximum head do not necessarily occur together. Selection depends on the performance curve and operating duty.
Send Your Duty for Review
You do not need to know the model in advance. Share the data you have and we will review it.