Submersible Pumps Key Terms

Learn the meaning of submersible pumps key terms

By Missy Duncan

A submersible pump is designed to be fully emerged in the product it is pumping. The pumps are completely enclosed to protect the mechanisms within. There are many types of submersible pumps and many regulations and certifications for them. When shopping for submersible pumps, do not get bogged down by words and phrases you don't understand. Review submersible pumps key terms to gain an understanding of what terms you may come across.

Alloy

An alloy is a metal that is created by combining other metals. The metals that are combined are selected for various attributes and for what they can create when put together. Some alloys are stronger or more flexible than the original metals.
Try: San Jose State University provides more information about alloys.

Reinforced composite

Reinforced composites are a combination of two or more constituent materials that are different in qualities and chemical make up. These composites also contain fiber, rubber or other materials used to reinforce the composite to make it stronger.
Try: Learn more about reinforced composites at the Federal Highway Administration. Science Direct also has information about fiber reinforced composites. Visit Nova to learn more about composites.

NSF

The NSF is the National Sanitation Foundation. This foundation tests and certifies submersible pumps among many other products. A product with an NSF certification has little to no discharge or harmful waste.
Try: The National Sanitation Foundation website offers information about NSF policies and standards. Read more about NSF inspections at Dominion Soil Science.

VFD

A VFD is a variable frequency drive, also known as a variable speed drive, VSD adjustable frequency drive, AFD, variable voltage drive, variable frequency drive or a VVVF drive. VFDs are used in pump motors to regulate rotation speed and AC electricity.
Try: Learn more about codes and news regarding variable frequency drives at Joliet Technologies. Penton Media also has information about VFDs.

Inverter duty motors

Inverter duty motors are motors designed to work with a VFD. Inverter duty motors are also equipped with an internal cooling system to keep the motor at proper temperatures.
Try: Learn more about inverter duty motors at AutomationDirect.com.

ASME

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers, or ASME, is a non-profit organization that certifies many mechanical products including submersible pumps. Most American submersible pumps are certified by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Try: Visit ASME International to find all the codes and standards for the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Learn more about the ASME at IHS.