Pump and valve product manufacturer KSB Pumps and Valves (KSB) has launched a rugged stainless-steel submersible pump range – CORAChrom – designed for deep borehole use and other demanding freshwater and saline pumping applications.

The new CORAChrom pumps are a “game changer” for African conditions with all wetted components, including the diffusers, being fabricated from corrosion-resistant, high-grade AISI 304 stainless-steel, or engineered polymer impellers depending on the environment, thereby ensuring the longest possible operational life even in mineral-rich or aggressive groundwater.

Additionally, the CORAChrom series is available in 100 mm and 150 mm multistage centrifugal variants and is designed to cope with the kind of variable borehole conditions and challenging water chemistry commonly encountered in South Africa and across the continent. This includes high iron or salt content, variable water tables and unreliable electricity supply, especially in rural areas, says KSB area manager Hugo du Plessis.

Unlike traditional cast iron or bronze pumps that may degrade or clog over time, the new CORAChrom submersible pumps use investment-cast stainless steel for key components such as the suction housing and non-return valve. The range also features integrated intermediate bearings and a counter-thrust ring to support axial loads and extend bearing life and further enhance reliability.

The pump’s lightweight modular design allows it to be installed vertically, horizontally or inclined, which makes it adaptable to a variety of borehole and tank installations.

The CORAChrom’s wide power compatibility allows it to operate on both single and three-phase alternating current power and is also available in direct current (DC), solar-ready options, which are proving especially valuable in off-grid or energy-constrained areas.

“Our CORAChrom pumps are capable of delivering flow rates of up to 12 m3/h (200 ℓ/min), with maximum heads of 638 m at 50 Hz (2 900 rpm) or 780 m at 60 Hz (3 500 rpm). Motors are available up to 22 kW, depending on model and application. This is tested and certified in our global manufacturing sites where each pump undergoes rigorous hydraulic testing under ISO 9906 Grade 3B standards, verifying its real-world efficiency,” says Du Plessis.

The KSB CORAChrom series is already gaining traction across multiple sectors with successful deployments in borehole-based irrigation for farms and smallholdings; garden and nursery watering systems; domestic water supply in rural or peri-urban housing developments; dewatering and groundwater management in construction and mining; and pressure boosting and cooling water systems in commercial and industrial buildings.

Further, Du Plessis notes that in drought-prone areas such as the Northern Cape, Karoo and North West province, where boreholes may be drilled to depths exceeding 500 m and access to reliable electricity remains a challenge, the solar-ready DC models have proven to be transformative.

As with all KSB products, the CORAChrom range is backed by KSB’s South African sales and service network with “expert support and technical backup” available through its branches and distributors.

“These pumps deliver excellent output per Watt-peak, even in low-light conditions, making them ideal for solar applications. It’s part of KSB’s commitment to sustainable water access and long-term value for our customers,” he concludes.