Whirlwind pumps are known to most summer residents of Russia. The model range of devices is designed for different depths of fluid rise. The technical characteristics of the surface vortex pump of various modifications indicate that the units are capable of pumping from 45 to 70 liters per minute. Based on the name of the pump, it is clear that the unit is installed on the surface of the earth at a small distance from the source of water.
Advantages and disadvantages
The positive aspects of the pump are:
- Simple design that does not require special difficulties in installation and maintenance.
- Great pressure. At the same power as the centrifugal pump, the surface vortex pumps 5-7 times more water.
- The ability to effectively lift fluid from small wells.
- Water supply from a depth of 7 to 9 meters.
- Maintaining pressure even if there is air in the working chamber. You can not say about centrifugal units.
- Relative noiselessness. If the pump is installed in a caisson and on an anti-vibration lining, it will not be heard at all in the area.
- The ability to use equipment as an auxiliary to increase the pressure in the pump station system.
- Powerful, reliable, productive models are inexpensive. The pump belongs to the category of budget.
The minuses of the equipment include:
- Sensitivity of the unit to water quality. Whirlwind pumps only work with clean media.
- Relatively low efficiency (within 45%).
- Rapid wear of vortex blades in case of grains of sand entering the chamber.
The working blades of the pump have a minimum clearance between their ribs and the walls of the working chamber. Therefore, the slightest inclusion of impurities in water creates difficulties in the rotation of the wheel. Sand grains prevent the development of good speed and disable the blades. It is advisable to use the pump only in clean water. Additionally, a coarse filter can be installed. As experienced gardeners assure, it will not be superfluous.
Popular models
Such models of a surface pump are in good demand among private craftsmen:
- Whirlwind PN-370. The body is made of durable cast iron, which prevents any mechanical damage. The unit has a built-in ejector with venturi pipes. The permissible height of liquid rise is 30 meters with a suction depth of 9 m. The model pumps 45 liters of water per minute. The Whirlwind Pump PN-370 is equipped with special protection against overheating and can work with environments whose temperature does not exceed +35 degrees.
- Whirlwind PN-900. The power of the electric motor is 900 watts. For the suburban area is the best option. The pump pumps 60 liters per minute, while the maximum sampling depth for this model is not specified by the manufacturer. Equipment can be used on average at a depth of 10-15 m (more is not acceptable for a surface pump). The unit is equipped with a handle for easy carrying. In operation, the equipment proved to be low noise with a low level of vibration. Part of the body is made of durable polymer.
- Whirlwind PN-1100N. The unit body is made of stainless steel. The permissible suction depth is 9 meters with a permitted head of 50 m. The engine power is 1100 watts. The pump housing is equipped with a handle for transportation and a convenient stable frame. The pump pumps 70 liters of fluid per minute.
Steel casing is more durable. Cast iron rusts over time.
Surface Pump Installation Rules
In order for the pump to work properly, it is important to connect it correctly. Experts recommend acting in this way:
- Prepare a special solid platform for installing the pump.If the unit will be used in the winter, it is necessary to place the equipment in an insulated caisson, otherwise the water supply system will freeze. It is advisable to add a rubber mat under the pump. It will reduce vibration and noise.
- From the source to the pump arrange the incoming line. To do this, measure the length of the pipe from the point of water intake to the entrance to the unit. Using the coupling and FUM tape connect it to the pump. It is also advisable to insulate the trunk for the winter.
- The non-return valve is mounted on the end of the pipe, which will be immersed in water. It is important to take care of the coarse filter, especially if the pump will work with river water or with liquid from a well on sand.
- Fill the entire system with water. It is important that all elements of the station are filled, including the hydraulic tank if it is used.
- Connect the equipment to the network. When you turn on the tap for the first time in the house, you need to adjust the working pressure. Optimum performance is 2.6-3.0 atm. As soon as such pressure is received, the pump itself will shut off. Check the pressure in the system by using a pressure gauge. As soon as the equipment turns off, you need to record the readings and adjust them to the recommended.
- The entire system is checked for leaks. If there are any, the master made mistakes when connecting the line or the pump has a factory defect.
Vortex surface pumps require good grounding.
Reviews aggregates Whirlwind
According to reviews of Vortex surface pumps, they last a long time. At the same time, problems with the operation / installation of private masters and gardeners do not arise.
Ivan, 43 years old: In summer I bought a surface pump Whirlwind PN-370. Tempted by good reviews and affordable price. Something about 3,000 rubles. I was pleased with the brass impeller and the dimensions of the unit. There were no problems with installation, adjustment. Pumps water from a depth of 4 m to a water mirror. A well with clean water. Threw a hose 30 m long through the garden. The output pressure is not bad. Only now the painting is not very. The top layer was peeling in places. For the winter I’ll paint, I guess. In general, for my money a good unit. Garden and vegetable garden 3 hundred parts completely fill in an hour.
Dima, 32 years old: I bought a Vortex PN-370 pump for watering. The instructions indicate that it pumps up to 46 liters per minute. Checked specially. Everything seems to fit. Shakes water not loudly. Neighbors 20 meters from my garden do not bother. Installation went fine. That's just very hot at work. I’m thinking how to cool it. Or maybe what kind of fuse-protection to put.
Cyril, 45 years old: For supplying water from a well in which the mirror is at the level of 4.5 meters, it is enough for a family of two. My old people live in a small house. The age to draw water in buckets is not the same. He built a pump station for them using the Whirlwind PN-900 pump. Externally, the unit looks impressive. At the first start it showed itself well. Today it has been working for 5 months. In principle, we do not complain. In the caisson it is almost inaudible. Plastic is still whole on all sides, even despite the slight vibration of the pump at the time of operation. Caisson insulated for the winter. So I think everything will be all right. For such money, a very good unit. Of course, it is hardly suitable for more powerful purposes. As well okay.
