Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I have taken the pump efficiency calculator out of my "hygicell filter biomedia and other calculators"
and post it here as a separate item
because, like most of us, I am in search of energy efficient pumps and want to concoct a database for all to inspect and use
"WARNING ! don't download this spreadsheet unless you have checked further in this thread if there isn't a newer version
and regularly come back to look for updates."

I would appreciate some help with this database
so if anybody uses the calculator or the one in "hygicell filter biomedia and other calculators", please post the results here

I will put them into the calculator data base for the benefit of all members and regularly post updates

I need pumping head, volume@head and power consumption@head@volume,
preferably in metric,
but I have enhanced the calculator so conversions have become easy
I also need pump brand and type
and the source of the data: web link, pump chart, tested results?
with those, it takes me a minute to add new data and produce the resulting efficiency

please also post suggestions as to improve the calculator
download it here:


frank

How does one obtain ... "power consumption@head@volume" ....

If I remember rightly, there's been discussion regarding this in previous threads... as to what might be stated, and what might be actual ?????

that is obviously why I ask for the source of the data and post it in the data base, Rupe
if it is from a pump manufacturer, some skepsis is in order
if it is from a member who has done measurements, we can assume it to be credible

frank

What I actually meant was... just how does one actually measure the real "power consumption@head@volume"...

amp meter, rupe

frank

So if a pump is rated by the manufacturer at 125 watts are you saying that it may draw more than that when it is pumping to a higher head?

I would not doubt the pump motor rates as they are easy to check
more the pump charts
but I don't want to spread a general feeling of suspicion either:
the charts seem honest enough: they show very poor results
I do resent the manufacturers habit of naming their pumps after the output volume realized at zero head, which never corresponds to working circumstances
it would be better if they used motor ratings
then from the charts one could compare what pump performs the best at the head one needs in his setup

by showing the manufacturers that we are aware of the inefficiency of their pumps we will hopefully force them to look into the matter

just take a look at your impeller: with it's straight blades, it is bound to be inefficient

not one single industrial pump has straight blades, all blades are hydro dynamically shaped for better performance

making the mould for a shaped blade calls for an initial investment
but once the mould is made, the blades can be series produced just like the straight ones are, at little or no extra cost

frank

Curiously Stuart some of the larger pumps quote higher figures than when actually running, I can only suppose it is to allow for the higher surge on start up. If its centrifugals they seem to only have minimal fluctuations unless completely without water in them.

that is called marketing, Sleepe:
you only show your brightest side
the rest is kept in the shades

frank