DEWATERING PUMPS
Dewatering pumps are used to remove unwanted water from construction sites, mines, tunnels, quarries, flooded areas, and other environments where excess water could cause damage or disrupt operations. They vary in design, power source, and pumping method, but they all aim to move water from one location to another, efficiently. Here’s a quick rundown on the different types of dewatering pumps available.
Centrifugal Pumps
The most common use for a centrifugal pump is for large scale mine pits, flood control, and slurry movement. They can handle large volumes quickly, however they are less effective for high lifts. Centrifugal pumps use an impeller that spins inside the casing to create centrifugal force. This force pushes water outwards from the centre to the pump outlet, creating a low pressure zone that draws in more water. Centrifugal pumps require priming to start pumping.
Vacuum-Assisted Pumps
A vacuum-assisted pump is a type of centrifugal pump that uses an additional vacuum system to automatically remove air from the suction line. They are popular for dewatering purposes in mining and construction as they can start pumping water even when the suction pipe isn’t completely flooded - something a standard centrifugal pump struggles with.
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps are excellent for continuous operation and are generally used in deep excavation pits, sumps, and sewerage systems. They are completely submerged in the water that is being pumped. The electric motor is sealed inside the casing, and a driving impeller forces water upwards through the discharge pipe. No priming is required for this sort of pump, as the pump is already underwater.
High Head Pumps
High head pumps are designed to move liquids to significant vertical heights or over long distances. They generate a much higher discharge pressure than a standard pump, however their flow volume can be significantly less. High head pumps use multi-stage impellers, running at higher rotational speeds, each adding more pressure to the water.
| PUMP TYPE |
BEST FOR |
NOT IDEAL FOR |
KEY ADVANTAGES |
| Centrifugal Pump |
Large volumes of water with low to moderate head (construction sites, mines) |
Very high head requirements or viscous/slurry fluids |
High flow rate, simple operation, cost-effective |
| Submersible Pump |
Deep excavations,
confined spaces |
Very shallow water where priming is faster with other pumps |
Can operate underwater, quiet, space-saving |
| High Head Pump |
Long-distance pumping, high vertical lift (tunnels, mines, quarries) |
Low head, short-distance pumping |
Maintains pressure over long distances |
| Vacuum-Assisted Pump |
Large-scale bypass pumping, sewer bypass, continuous dewatering |
Small or one-off dewatering jobs |
Continuous priming, can handle air/water mix |
Brooks Site Services stocks a wide range of dewatering pumps to suit most situations. To see the full range, call 1300 276 657, or email: sales@brookssiteservices.com.au