Above Grade Pumps versus Submersibles


It's an obvious fact:  safe and clean pumping is better than nasty and dangerous pumping.  But if you want more proof, here's a quick look at what makes Smith & Loveless Wet Well Mounted Pump Stations superior to submersible pumps.

Confined Space
- Eliminates the need to enter confined space for maintenance or operation.
- Eliminates the need for a valve vault.

Pathogen Exposure
- Exposure to pathogens is limited with S&L stations.
- Release the vacuum & wastewater falls back into the wet well, un-screw 4 bolts, hang the rotating assembly from the lifting stanchion to access the mechanical seal.

Footprint
- Control panel and valves are located under the enclosure.
- No valve vault is required.

Valve Vault
- No valve vault needed – all discharge valves come preassembled and tested at the factory, under the hood.
- All maintenance & inspection of valves done at-grade.

Fewer Priming Mechanisms
- Submersibles require the following to be primed:
    - placement inside wet well at bottom of the wastewater
    - explosion proof motor
    - oil filled motor
    - cables & connections rated for hazardous area
    - 316SS rails
    - coupling underwater
    - seal leak sensor
    - motor overheat sensor
    - oil filled seal
- S&L stations require the following for priming:
    - WaveStart™ Prime Sensing System
    - solenoid valve
    - vacuum pump
    - vacuum tubing

Long Life
- S&L pumps last 25+ years with regular lubrication and general maintenance.
- Design life of the S&L mechanical seal is 7 years.

Maintenance Savings & Safety
- Roughly $2400/yr savings per station over submersible stations for annual maintenance costs.
- Maintenance can be done above grade, eliminating the need for 3 people on site, paperwork, and time for confined space entry maintenance and inspection.

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