Running head: PUMPS IN BUILDING 1

TOPIC: PUMPS IN BUILDING

NAMES & REG NO:

1. COLLINS RUTTO EABQ/00733/2015

2. DENNIS NZIOKA EACR/02326/2018
3. GEOFFREY MUREITHI EABQ/02764p/2018
4. BRIAN KOOME EACR/01617/2018
5. YVONNE MBAIKA EABQ/01617/2018

INSTITUTION: TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF KENYA

FACULTY: FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND THE BUILT ENVIROMENT

SCHOOL: SCHOOL OF CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY STUDIES

DEPARTMENT: CONSTRUCTION ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT

COURSE NAME: BACHELOR OF THE BUILT ENVIROMENT (Construction

Management)

COURSE UNIT CODE: EACR 3175

COURSE UNIT NAME: BUILDING SERVICES B

INSTRUCTOR: BENSON ONDUSO

DATE: May, 30th 2021.

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Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................................... 3
TYPES AND CLASSIFICATIONS OF PUMPS IN A BUILDING. ...................................................... 3
The Septic Air Pump .............................................................................................................................. 3
Sewage Ejector Pump ............................................................................................................................. 4
Circulator Pump ..................................................................................................................................... 6
Heat Pump ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Sump Pumps ............................................................................................................................................ 9
Types of sump pumps ......................................................................................................................... 11
ESSENTIAL FACTORS THAT AFFECT CHOICES OF A PUMP SELECTION .......................... 12
1. Process Liquid Properties................................................................................................................... 12
2. Materials of Construction ................................................................................................................... 13
3. Is the Pump Critical to Plant Operation? ........................................................................................... 13
4. Pump Inlet Conditions ........................................................................................................................ 13
5. Pump Environment.............................................................................................................................. 13
6. Power Source Availability .................................................................................................................. 13
7. Flow Rate and Pressure ...................................................................................................................... 13
CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................................................... 14
REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................................... 15
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INTRODUCTION
Karassik, Messina, Cooper, & Heald (2008) defines a pump as a device that moves fluids
(liquids or gases), or sometimes slurries, by mechanical action, typically converted from
electrical energy into hydraulic energy. Pumps can be classified into three major groups
according to the method they use to move the fluid: direct lift, displacement, and gravity pumps.
Pumps operate by some mechanism (typically reciprocating or rotary), and consume energy to
perform mechanical work moving the fluid. Pumps operate via many energy sources, including
manual operation, electricity, engines, or wind power, and come in many sizes, from microscopic
for use in medical applications, to large industrial pumps.

Mechanical pumps serve in a wide range of applications such as pumping water from
wells, aquarium filtering, pond filtering and aeration, in the car industry for water-
cooling and fuel injection, in the energy industry for pumping oil and natural gas or for
operating cooling towers and other components of heating, ventilation and air
conditioning systems. According to Karassik, Messina, Cooper, & Heald (2008), In the medical
industry, pumps are used for biochemical processes in developing and manufacturing medicine,
and as artificial replacements for body parts, in particular the artificial heart and penile
prosthesis. When a casing contains only one revolving impeller, it is called a single-stage pump.
When a casing contains two or more revolving impellers, it is called a double- or multi-stage
pump.

In this research paper, we are going to discuss pumps in building by describing their
types and classifications. Furthermore, describe the essential factors used in choosing and
selecting right type of pumps.

TYPES AND CLASSIFICATIONS OF PUMPS IN A BUILDING.

The Septic Air Pump
The septic air pump is literally the lifeline of household aerobic system. The system
cannot function the way it was designed without the air pump working. The actual purpose of the
air pump is two-fold. First, the air pump puts oxygen into the water allowing the formation and
survival of Aerobic bacteria. McGhee, & Steel, (1991) indicate that these Aerobic bacteria are
what eat up all of the waste in the tank. They are much larger and more efficient at processing
waste as compared to the anaerobic bacteria found in a conventional septic system.
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Figure 1. Hiblow Septic Air Pumps

Secondly, the air pump creates an action in the tank that breaks down large solids into
tiny particles, making it very easy for the bacteria to attach to and devour the waste. If your air
pump quits working on your aerobic system, over a period of about 2 weeks the system will
begin to turn back anaerobic (McGhee, & Steel, 1991). The biggest problem with this happening
is that there is no secondary treatment system behind your aerobic system, as you have in a
conventional anaerobic septic system. Once the aerobic system turns back anaerobic, instead of
producing a clear odorless discharge the effluent will be closer to raw sewage. As you may
realize, raw sewage discharging into a ditch, lake, or pond, or being sprayed on your lawn is not
a good thing. This is why it is important to your system for the air pump to be up and running.

Sewage Ejector Pump

A sewage ejector pump, also called a pump-up ejector system, is used when a bathroom,
laundry room or any other type of plumbing fixture is located below the level of the main sewer
or septic line flowing from the house. Research by McGhee, & Steel, (1991) indicates that, the
flow of drain-wastewater depends on gravity, so any plumbing systems in which fixtures are
located below the level of the main sewer line all require a pump or some means of elevating the
wastewater so it can flow down and out properly.

The principle of a sewage ejector pump is similar to how a groundwater sump

pump operates, but instead of rainwater seepage being pumped out of the home, it is
waste/sewage being lifted up and out into the main sewer lines or septic field.
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Figure 2. Sewage Ejector Pump.

Most commonly, ejector pumps are used in homes with basement bathrooms or laundry
rooms. Not all basements require them, but when the municipal sewer lines running to the street
are at a higher level than the fixture, the ejector pump serves to pump both liquids and solids up
into the sewer line so it can flow properly. Ejector pumps are also very common in septic drain-
field systems, such as are found in rural locations where the septic drainage field or holding tank
may be considerably higher than basement plumbing fixtures.

Sewage ejector pumps are meant to sit in a sump basin that is cut and dug into the ground
below grade. McGhee, & Steel, (1991) further noted that, this sump basin collects and holds
about 30 gallons of waste, on average, for a moderate-sized home. The drain lines from the
various fixtures in the basement area are sloped down into the side of the sump basin, and when
the level of wastewater in the sump basin reaches a certain height, a moveable float on the
sewage ejector pump starts the pump. The wastewater is then pumped out of the basin and up to
the level of the sewer or septic line. Once the level in the basin goes down, the float drops back
down and turns off the pump until the next time the basin fills.
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Circulator Pump
A circulator pump or circulating pump is a specific type of pump used to
circulate gases, liquids, or slurries in a closed circuit. They are commonly found
circulating water in a hydronic heating or cooling system. Because they only circulate liquid
within a closed circuit, they only need to overcome the friction of a piping system (as opposed to
lifting a fluid from a point of lower potential energy to a point of higher potential energy).

According to Wu, Ren, Mou, & Gu, (2017) Circulator pumps as used in hydronic systems
are usually electrically powered centrifugal pumps. As used in homes, they are often small,
sealed, and rated at a fraction of a horsepower, but in commercial applications they range in size
up to many horsepower and the electric motor is usually separated from the pump body by some
form of mechanical coupling. The sealed units used in home applications often have the motor
rotor, pump impeller, and support bearings combined and sealed within the water circuit. This
avoids one of the principal challenges faced by the larger, two-part pumps: maintaining a water-
tight seal at the point where the pump drive shaft enters the pump body.

Figure 3. Circulator Pump

Small- to medium-sized circulator pumps are usually supported entirely by the pipe
flanges that join them to the rest of the hydronic plumbing. Large pumps are usually pad-
mounted.
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Figure 4. Cross-section details of Circulator Pump

Pumps that are used solely for closed hydronic systems can be made with cast
iron components as the water in the loop will either become de-oxygenated or be treated with
chemicals to inhibit corrosion (Wu, Ren, Mou, & Gu, 2017). But pumps that have a steady
stream of oxygenated, potable water flowing through them must be made of more expensive
materials such as bronze.

Heat Pump
A heat pump is in principle a refrigeration cycle as stated by Hall, F. (2012). It differs in
application, extracting heat from a low temperature source and upgrading it to a higher
temperature for heat emission or water heating. The low temperature heat source may be from
water, air or soil which surrounds the evaporator. A heat pump must be energy efficient; it must
generate more power than that used to operate it. A measure of theoretical coefficient of
performance (COP) can be expressed as:
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Figure 5. Theoretical Coefficient of Performance (COP)

i.e., 5„74 kW of energy produced for every 1 kW absorbed. Allowing for efficiency of
equipment and installation, a COP of 2 to 3 is more likely.

Figure 6. Principles of Operation of the Pump.

According to studies (Hall, F. 2012) Heat pump units are available as large items of plant
that can be used to warm a whole building. However, small self-contained units are more
common. These are usually located under window openings for warm and cool air distribution in
winter and summer respectively. To transfer the warmth in stale extract duct air, water may be
circulated through coils or energy exchangers in both the extract and cool air intake ducts. This is
PUMPS IN BUILDING 9

known as a run-around coil. Using water as an energy transfer medium is inexpensive but limited
in efficiency. Use of a refrigerant is more effective, with an evaporator coil in the warm extract
duct and a condenser coil in the cold air inlet duct.

Figure 7. Heat Pump Unit.

Heat energy in warm waste water from sanitary fittings may be retrieved and used to
supplement space heating by using a heat pump. An insulated tank buried below ground receives
the waste water before it flows to the sewer. Heat energy is extracted through an evaporator
inside the tank (Hall, 2012).

Figure 8. Heat Pump Unit for Heat Extraction from Warm Waste.

Sump Pumps
Sump pumps move water from your basement out of your home. Hall, & Greeno (2014)
states that, a sump is a naturally constructed pit, usually a hole carved below the main surface of
your basement floor. This pit, known as a basin, holds the sump pump. The pump is equipped
PUMPS IN BUILDING 10

with valves that sense escalating water levels or pressure. When the water gets too high, sump
pumps automatically pump excess water out of the basement and away from your property using
a discharge line. This line, called an effluent, connects the sump pump to a designated drainage
area (Hall, & Greeno 2014).

Figure 9. Sump Pump on Basement.

Sump pump water discharges to a designated area, such as a dry well, a creek or pond, or
even a neighborhood drain. Be careful not to set your drain point somewhere that water will
return to your home. Ideally, keep the pup 10 to 20 feet away from the foundation of your home.
Some cities have building codes that determine where your sump pump can drain, so it is always
best to check with your local government.
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Figure 10. Cross-section Details of Sump Pump

Hall, & Greeno (2014) pointed that we may need to attach an extended drainage hose
and increase the horsepower of the sump pump you choose to compensate.

Types of sump pumps

Submersible sump pumps

Submersible pumps contain the pump and motor in one unit. They sit submerged and
closed inside a basin in your basement. Because submersible pumps are completely submerged
in the water basin, they are often quieter, save space in your basement, and clog less than a
pedestal. However, due to the effects of water submersion, they may not last as long as other
sump pumps (Hall, & Greeno 2014). This is still the best option for homes with major flooding
concerns.

Pedestal sump pumps

Unlike a submersible sump pump, a pedestal sump pump consists of a separate motor and
pump. The motor sits on a pedestal above the basin, with a hose running to the basin where the
pump is placed. The pump sends water through the hose and out to your designated drain area.
Because the motor is not submerged, it often has a higher lifespan than other sump pumps and
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can be accessed easier for maintenance issues. However, it also means it can be louder and take
up more space than the submersible pump.

Battery-operated backup

A battery backup sump pump is a great way to provide some extra security from flood
damage. A battery backup with a float switch allows your sump pump to operate even when your
power is out during a storm when you need it the most. When the power goes out the main
source of power for the pump does too. Water rises in the basin and the float switch is triggered
sending your battery operation into action.

Water-powered backup

A water-powered backup clears the water in your basin through increased water pressure.
The advantage of a water-powered system is that there's no need to monitor the backup or
replace any batteries (Hall, & Greeno 2014). The use of additional water raises your water
bill significantly and is a bit controversial. Some cities do not allow them to be installed

ESSENTIAL FACTORS THAT AFFECT CHOICES OF A PUMP

SELECTION
Several variables play a direct role in how long a pump will last and how it'll operate.
The following are 7 important aspects to consider when choosing a pump.

1. Process Liquid Properties

What type of liquid is the pump intended for? Below are process liquid properties that must
be considered before selecting a pump.

➢ Liquid viscosity
➢ Temperature
➢ Specific gravity
➢ Vapor pressure
➢ Solids present & concentration
➢ Shear sensitive
➢ Abrasive or Non-abrasive
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2. Materials of Construction
What materials of construction are compatible with the process liquid or any other liquids
the pump might come into contact with? Chemical compatibility charts are available to help us
identify the most appropriate materials of construction for the pump (Larralde, & Ocampo,
2010).

3. Is the Pump Critical to Plant Operation?

In critical applications, where downtime is NOT an option, more expensive, heavy-duty
pumps with special features can be chosen. If pumps can be removed from service for
maintenance, less expensive options could be considered.

4. Pump Inlet Conditions

We don’t want to starve a pump. System Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) available is
calculated by knowing pump inlet pressure and liquid vapor pressure. We can always make sure
NPSHA exceeds pump Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) required.

5. Pump Environment
If our pump will be outside, special construction or installation considerations may need
to be made for freezing temperatures (Larralde, & Ocampo, 2010). If the environment is
hazardous, contains explosive vapors or dust, special motor features will be required. These are
just a few examples of environmental conditions to consider.

6. Power Source Availability

The most common power source in the United States is 115-230 Volts/60 Hertz/1-phase
or 230-460 Volts, 60 Hertz/3-phase. Special motors can be specified for operation outside of the
United States or by using DC batteries. Compressed air or pressurized hydraulic oil can also be
used for power.

7. Flow Rate and Pressure

The total volume and knowing how much time we have to move the fluid will determine
flow rate. Pump differential pressure can be calculated by knowing pipe size (length & fittings),
static lifts, and system equipment (filters, valves, etc.) friction losses (Larralde, & Ocampo,
2010).
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By understanding the above factors, we are arming ourselves with the knowledge
necessary to choose the right pump. No matter the application, we can feel confident with our
next pump selection!

CONCLUSION
Perhaps, Pumps is a basic component required in building and are use in our daily
activities. Therefore, without any doubt is an essential equipment and tool in a building. For
example, a sump pump is vital to homes that are prone to flooding to help to pump out water on
low rise floors or basement thus good for individual health. However, some of the pump
installation can be expensive, but its significance outweighs the disadvantages. Therefore, it is
recommended to install pumps with a building to serve their specific function and help people in
their ways of living.
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REFERENCES
Hall, F. & Greeno R (2014) Building Services Handbook Incorporating Current Building &
Construction Regulations.

Hall, F. (2012) Building services and equipment.

Karassik, I. J., Messina, J. P., Cooper, P., & Heald, C. C. (2008). Pump handbook. McGraw-Hill
Education.

Larralde, E., & Ocampo, R. (2010). Pump selection: a real example. World Pumps, 2010(3), 28-
33.

McGhee, T. J., & Steel, E. W. (1991). Water supply and sewerage (Vol. 6). New York:
McGraw-Hill.

Wu, D., Ren, Y., Mou, J., & Gu, Y. (2017). Investigation of the correlation between noise &
vibration characteristics and unsteady flow in a circulator pump. Journal of Mechanical
Science and Technology, 31(5), 2155-2166.