Pumps manufacturer Grundfos recently launched an extended range of high-efficiency medium-sized submersible groundwater pumps that boast increased efficiency and improved wear resistance, which further enhances the reputation that Grundfos’s current submersible pumps (SP) range has for reliability, system integration and efficiency.

Many of the improvements on the new 4" SP pumps range have been adapted from the company’s range of large SP pumps for professional end-users. The range has been expanded from two sizes to three sizes and is manufactured from stainless steel, with three different material grades available covering liquids from drinking water to seawater.

“We have invested substantially in extending the SP range including new production facilities in Denmark, showing our commitment to the market for medium-sized submersible groundwater pumps,” says Grundfos global product manager Jakob Overgaard, adding that the company is “far ahead” of current efficiency requirements.

“Our participation in driving energy efficiency initiatives ensures that industry standards are set as high as possible,” he says.

Surpassing Energy Efficiency Requirements
The European Union (EU) Ecodesign Directive establishes a framework of rules and criteria for the Ecodesign of energy-related products.

The Ecodesign requirements for rotodynamic water pumps are established using the Minimum Efficiency Index (MEI).

From January 1, all water pumps in the scope of the Ecodesign Directive were required to have an MEI value ≥ 0.40. However, the extended range of high-efficiency medium-sized submersible SP groundwater pumps surpasses the MEI value.

Grundfos is committed to sustainable development, with an ongoing effort to reduce the carbon footprint and improve efficiency at the company’s factories.

The company does this through increased pump efficiency and reduced carbon dioxide emissions. Beyond the efficiency requirements of the Ecodesign Directive, the potential for cost savings from optimised pump operations is substantial.

Drinking Water Approvals
In addition to surpassing EU Ecodesign Directive standards, Grundfos’s new 4" SP submersible groundwater pumps range meets drinking water approvals relevant to the market where the pump is sold.

These CE-labelled pumps offer increased wear resistance, reinforcing the reliability for which Grundfos is known and that customers require.

Reliable and Proven Groundwater Pumps
Made entirely of corrosion-resistant stainless steel, Grundfos’s SP pumps are ideal for a variety of applications, such as groundwater supply to waterworks, irrigation and pressure boosting, highlights Overgaard.

The range offers high-efficiency capabilities, reliable motors, easy maintenance and resistance to sand and other abrasive materials. In addition to dedicated motor protection devices, a complete monitoring and control system is available for constant optimisation of the pump system.

“Considering the reputation the SP pump already has for reliability, system integration and efficiency, we are sure customers will welcome the new 4" SP pump,” says Overgaard.

He adds that, in addition to meeting the new Ecodesign Directive requirements, the potential for energy savings is substantial. “The Grundfos pump audit is an excellent way of discovering these.”

The 4" SP submersible groundwater pump was launched, initially in the European region, in selected markets around the world, South Africa being one of them.