Pump Industry Glossary

The flow rate at which a pump operates at maximum efficiency. Operating near BEP reduces energy consumption, vibration, and wear.

Electrical component used in single-phase motors to create a phase shift for starting (start capacitor) or running (run capacitor). Essential for single-phase submersible pumps.

A one-way valve that allows water to flow in one direction only. Prevents backflow that could damage the pump or drain the system when the pump stops.

European conformity marking indicating compliance with EU health, safety, and environmental directives. Required for pumps and motors sold in the European market.

Formation and collapse of vapor bubbles in a pump due to low pressure. Causes noise, vibration, and damage to impellers. Prevented by ensuring adequate NPSH.

The intersection of the pump curve and the system curve, representing the actual operating flow rate and head of the pump in a specific installation.

A stationary component that converts the kinetic energy from the impeller into pressure energy. Used in multi-stage submersible pumps to build head at each stage.

The volume of water a pump moves per unit time, typically measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h) or liters per minute (L/min).

A check valve with a strainer installed at the bottom of the suction pipe. Keeps the pipe primed and prevents debris from entering the pump.

The vertical height a pump can raise water, measured in meters. Total Dynamic Head (TDH) includes static lift plus friction losses in the piping system.

Unit of mechanical power commonly used for pump motors. 1 HP = 746 watts. Used alongside kW in European pump specifications.

A pressurized water system using a pump, pressure tank, and controls to maintain constant water pressure. Reduces pump cycling and protects against water hammer.

Ingress Protection rating indicating resistance to solids and liquids. IP68 is common for submersible equipment: fully dust-tight and suitable for continuous submersion.

Rating of motor winding insulation temperature resistance. Class F (155°C) and H (180°C) are standard for submersible motors. Higher class means greater thermal tolerance.

The rotating component inside a pump that transfers energy to the fluid. Types include closed, semi-open, and vortex impellers, each suited to different fluid conditions.

International quality management standard. JOVAL is ISO 9001:2015 certified, ensuring consistent product quality and continuous improvement processes in manufacturing.

International Electrotechnical Commission standards for electrical equipment. IEC 60034 covers rotating electrical machines, including submersible motors.

Unit of electrical power. In pumps, refers to the motor input power (P1) or shaft power (P2). 1 HP ≈ 0.746 kW.

A sealing device between the pump shaft and housing that prevents leakage. Uses two precision-machined faces, one rotating and one stationary, with a thin fluid film between them.

The minimum pressure required at the pump suction to prevent cavitation. NPSHa (available) must exceed NPSHr (required) for safe operation.

A vessel that stores pressurized water using a bladder or membrane. Provides reserve capacity and reduces pump start/stop cycles in domestic and commercial systems.

The process of filling a pump and suction line with liquid before starting. Submersible pumps are self-priming as they operate submerged in the fluid.

A pump designed to operate fully submerged in the liquid being pumped. Used for deep wells, drainage, and sewage applications. Motor and pump are a sealed unit.

The total equivalent height a pump must overcome, including static head, friction losses, and pressure requirements at the discharge point.

Variable Frequency Drive: electronic device that controls motor speed by adjusting the frequency of the power supply. Enables energy savings and soft starting of pump motors.

A replaceable ring that maintains a close clearance between the impeller and pump casing, minimizing internal recirculation and maintaining pump efficiency.