Put simply, head is the height at which a pump can raise fluid up and is measured in metres or feet. We use it when specifying centrifugal pumps because their pumping characteristics tend to be independent of the fluid’s specific gravity, often referred to as relative density.
Head can sometimes be confused with pressure, purely because there is a close relationship between the two parameters but there is one fundamental difference.
Head is fluid independent, that is, regardless of the fluid’s relative density, the pump will lift it to the same height. Therefore, it does not matter whether the fluid is water or heavy sludge.
Pressure, on the other hand, is fluid dependent and is affected by gravity. Therefore, the same head will generate a different pressure depending on the fluid’s relative density.
Suction conditions are also relevant to the pump head. If the suction level is lower, the head measured will be less, and vice versa. The pump’s motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, which the pump then imparts into the fluid as pressure. Raising or lowering the suction level therefore adjusts the potential pressure of the liquid. The more pressure the pump delivers, the higher the head will be.
Figure 1: Friction losses are affected by length and size of pipework, bends, gate valves, strainer and velocity of flow.
Figure 2: Performance curve of Atlas Copco’s WEDA L100N (60Hz) slurry pump
The total head parameter is crucial when buying or renting the right pump for your application. It gives an accurate indication of the pump’s performance, regardless of other contributing factors such as suction level and fluid density.
In the United Arab Emirates, where construction and industrial projects often encounter high groundwater levels, selecting the appropriate dewatering pump is crucial. Understanding the concept of 'pump head'—the height a pump can raise fluid—is essential for efficient water management. Unlike pressure, which varies with fluid density, pump head remains consistent regardless of the fluid's specific gravity. This distinction is vital when dealing with diverse fluids in UAE's varied environments.
Atlas Copco offers a comprehensive range of dewatering pumps tailored to meet the unique challenges of the UAE. Our pumps are designed for efficiency and reliability, ensuring optimal performance across various applications. Explore our dewatering pump solutions to find the right fit for your project needs. https://www.atlascopco.com/en-ae/construction-equipment/products/dewatering-pumps
No, pump head and pressure are related but distinct concepts. Pump head refers to the height a pump can raise fluid and is independent of the fluid's density. Pressure, however, depends on the fluid's specific gravity and varies accordingly.
In the UAE, projects often involve managing high groundwater levels. Understanding pump head helps in selecting pumps that can effectively handle the required elevation and flow rates, ensuring efficient dewatering operations.
While pump head remains constant regardless of fluid density, the pressure exerted by the pump varies with the fluid's specific gravity. Therefore, knowing the fluid density is essential for accurate pressure calculations and appropriate pump selection.
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