Full Load Amps, Power Factor, and Electrical Sizing for Pump Motors
Full Load Amps (FLA) and power factor are the core electrical parameters that dictate how a pump motor is sized, protected, and installed. This…
PumpCalcs reference library
Author: John C. Wilcox
86 resources
Methods · worked examples · references
Pump Motor Tripping the Breaker: Causes and What to Check First
When a pump motor repeatedly trips its circuit breaker, the problem can range from simple wiring errors to serious mechanical overloads. This article outlines…
Specific Speed and Suction Specific Speed: What They Tell You About a Pump
Specific speed and suction specific speed are dimensionless (or quasi‑dimensionless) indices that classify pump impeller geometry, predict performance curve shape, and quantify suction capability.…
Hydraulic Power vs Brake Horsepower vs Motor Power: The Difference Explained
Hydraulic power, brake horsepower, and motor power describe three distinct stages of energy transfer in a pump system. Understanding their definitions, relationships, and conversion…
Chemical Metering Pumps: Dosing Calculations and Selection
A comprehensive reference on calculating dosing rates for chemical metering pumps, selecting the appropriate pump, and avoiding common pitfalls. Includes governing equations, US and…
Pump Affinity Laws: How Speed and Impeller Diameter Change Flow, Head, and Power
The pump affinity laws are fundamental scaling relationships that predict how centrifugal pump performance changes when rotational speed or impeller diameter is varied. Flow…
Pump Materials of Construction: Cast Iron, Stainless Steel, Bronze, and Thermoplastics
Choosing the right pump material of construction is critical for durability, efficiency, and safety. This reference examines cast iron, stainless steel, bronze, and thermoplastics,…
Best Efficiency Point (BEP): What It Is and Why Operating Away From It Destroys Pumps
The Best Efficiency Point (BEP) is the flow rate and head at which a centrifugal pump operates with maximum hydraulic efficiency. Sustained operation far…
Sump Pump Sizing: Measuring Inflow, Calculating Head, and Avoiding Short Cycling
Properly sized sump pumps keep basements dry and equipment protected. This article explains how to measure inflow, calculate total dynamic head, and select a…
Pump Installation Checklist: Foundation, Baseplate, and Grouting
A solid foundation, correctly aligned baseplate, and proper grouting are essential for reliable pump operation. This reference article walks through the engineering rationale, design…