What is "Vertical suction lift"?

The vertical suction lift is the vertical distance between the water source and the pump's inlet. 

 

Environment 

This article applies to all water and trash pumps. 

 

Why is it important to know the "Vertical suction lift" and "total head" distance?

Various factors, such as the length and diameter of suction and discharge hoses, the total head, and the Vertical Suction Lift, influence a pump's performance. Typically, centrifugal water pumps have a maximum vertical suction lift of 26 feet, and exceeding this limit can affect the pump's efficiency and output and risk damage to the unit. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that the pump is appropriately sized and located to optimize its performance. 

 

What is the difference between "Vertical suction lift" and "head"?

Vertical suction lift: 

• Maximum height a pump can lift fluid from a lower level to the pump inlet using suction. 
• Only considers the vertical distance from field level to the pump.
• Limited by atmospheric pressure, typically up to 26 feet for most pumps. 

Head:

• The total height at which a pump can move fluid from the suction source to the discharge point. 
• Includes vertical suction lift and discharge height.
• Represents the pump's overall capability to move fluid through a system.