How to position your vacuum system correctly

Proper positioning of a vacuum pumping system for groundwater lowering is critical to ensure efficient and effective lowering of the groundwater table. The elevation at which the pump is placed directly affects the performance and success of the drawdown process. Here are some important reasons why the positioning of the pump must be carefully considered:

1. Vacuum performance and range: the efficiency of a vacuum pumping system depends greatly on its ability to generate sufficient vacuum. The deeper the pump is placed in the excavation, the better it can establish and maintain vacuum. A strong vacuum is required to efficiently lower groundwater, especially in deep excavations.
2. Avoid leakage: If the pump is placed near the edge of the excavation and the excavation is very deep, there is a risk of leaks or air leaks in the suction lines. These leaks can result in the vacuum not being effectively maintained, which can affect the drawdown of groundwater.
3. Minimizing energy losses: a pump positioned near the edge and attempting to pump water from great depths must work against significant hydraulic resistance. This requires more energy and can result in inefficient pumping. Placing the pump near the deepest point of the excavation minimizes hydraulic resistance and saves energy.
4. Ensuring excavation stability: Proper lowering of the groundwater level is also important to ensure excavation stability. If the groundwater is not lowered efficiently, this can lead to undesirable water ingress and jeopardize the safety of the construction site.

In summary, positioning the pump near the deepest point of the excavation is critical to take full advantage of a strong vacuum, minimize leaks, save energy, and ensure excavation stability. Careful planning and execution of pump positioning is therefore essential to achieve efficient groundwater drawdown in deep excavations.