91
Pumpset Selection for Shallow Tubewells
The Selection of the proper pumpset to suit the agroclimatic conditions in an
area is of prime importance. Field studies by various organizations have
indicated that as of 1982 about 96% of the pumpsets installed in the field were
defective in one way or the other. Therefore, maximum emphasis is to be laid
on proper selection of pumpsets. NABARD carried out extensive studies on the
efficiency of agricultural pumpset in 1980's and came out with certain
guidelines which are narrated below :
Pumpsets
An agricultural pumpset consists of the following components :
1.
Pump
2.
Prime Mover - Diesel Engine or Electric Motor
3.
Suction Pipe / Delivery Pipes
4.
Foot Valve
5.
Other accessories like base plate, power panel, etc.
During selection of a pumpset all the above components should match each
other. Given below are the important aspects that may be kept in view at the
time of pumpset selection.
Selection of Pump
The main points that are to be considered while selecting a pump are given
below:
i.
Discharge to be pumped
ii.
Total Head
iii.
Pump Efficiency
iv.
Seasonal variation of Groundwater Level
At a given site and for a given command of the well the discharge that is
required to be pumped out for a given cropping pattern is known. The head over
which water is to be lifted from the well to the discharge point on the delivery
side is also known. When a pump is operated the water level in the well falls
