
Turbine Pump Selection: Key Differences Between Submersible and Line Shaft Vertical Pumps
A flexible option for a range of uses is the vertical turbine pump. There are various applications for it. VTPs come in a variety of forms at the moment. The majority feature sleeve bearings. The weight of the impellers and engine is too much for them to support. Their purpose is to lessen the downthrust that the pump produces. These pumps’ design engineers optimize their products using cutting-edge engineering tools. This procedure yields a better, more economical, and more efficient VTP.
When it comes to turbine pumps, there are essentially two main types: submersible vertical turbine pumps and lineshaft vertical pumps
The distinctions between line-shaft and submersible vertical turbine pumps (VTPs) must be taken into account when selecting a pump for a given application in order to choose the best pump for the job. Both kinds of pumps offer unique benefits and drawbacks, even though they can be utilized successfully in a range of applications.
Submersible Vertical Turbine Pump
Submersible turbine pumps are designed to function while submerged in water. Submersible motor vertical turbine pumps use a submersible motor coupled to the lower portion of a submerged vertical turbine pump so that both are located together in the well.
This is how the entire procedure operates: The pump’s bottom is where water first enters. The “Suction Bell” is the name given to this bell-shaped part of the pump. The water’s velocity is then increased by sending it to the first stage impeller. The diffuser bowl, which is situated directly above the impeller, receives the water after that. Here, the energy generated by the increased velocity is transformed into high pressure. The water is being directed to the next impeller, which is situated above the diffuser bowl, at the same time.

The water must then ascend via a lengthy, vertical pipe after exiting the last diffuser bowl. The discharge head at the surface alters the flow’s direction. The water is forced through its last stage by a motor that is fixed to the discharge head.
As long as there remains water at the bottom, the entire process continues, moving from top to bottom in a matter of seconds. Multiple impellers can be utilized to increase pressure along the well’s path in deeper wells.
The location of the motor is the primary distinction between a vertical line shaft turbine and a submerged vertical turbine pump. The motor and pump of a submersible turbine pump are situated at the bottom of the system, submerged beneath the water. In contrast, the motor of a vertical line shaft pump is located at the top of the system. The location of the motor significantly affects the turbine’s operation and the type of turbine pump that is best suited for the project.

Line Shaft Vertical Pump
Additionally, there are some benefits to selecting a line shaft vertical turbine pump. For instance, because the motor of a line shaft vertical turbine pump sits at the surface of the well rather at the bottom, maintenance on the motors is frequently simpler. Furthermore, line shaft pumps are frequently more effective and less prone to malfunctions brought on by voltage problems.
Finally, the versatility of line shaft pumps is greater. A line shaft pump can be operated by a pulley system, a vertical motor, a horizontal motor with a right-angle gear drive, and more. Because the motor is on the surface and above the water, there are more fuel sources available.

Submersible vs. Lineshaft Vertical Turbine Pumps
This table summarizes the key differences and characteristics of both types of vertical turbine pumps, helping project managers make informed decisions based on their specific needs.
Line Shaft Vertical Pump | Submersible Vertical Turbine Pump | Feature
|
Located at the top, above the water | Located at the bottom, submerged in water |
Motor Location
|
Easier access for maintenance | More challenging due to submerged motor | Maintenance
|
Generally more efficient and reliable | Can be less efficient in some cases | Efficiency
|
Less prone to malfunctions from voltage issues | More prone to malfunctions from voltage issues | Voltage Issues
|
Can also handle pressure but with different mechanics | Multiple impellers can increase pressure in deep wells |
Pressure Management
|
Easier installation due to surface location | Requires installation in wells with water | Installation Complexity
|
More versatile with various motor options | Limited to specific applications | Versatility
|
Typically used for shallower applications | Suitable for deeper wells | Operational Depth |
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing a turbine pump. Every work has unique requirements, such as location, financial constraints, and other equipment. Project managers are therefore required to select the turbine pump that best suits their project. Project managers can choose the best course of action by knowing the differences between the various types of vertical turbine pumps and how a turbine pump works.

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References
Advantages and Disadvantages of Vertical Turbine Pumps
https://www.yeschamp.com/news/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-vertical-turbine-pumps.html
Deep Well Vertical Turbine Pumps
How Does a Submersible Vertical Turbine Pump Function?
https://zoneindustries.com/how-does-a-submersible-vertical-turbine-pump-function/