A Ram Pump is a pure water-powered pump that doesn't need electricity or fuel to pump water to an elevation higher than its source.
There are four different 'makes', of ram pumps, each with unique characteristics and applications.
1. Cast steel/iron ram pumps are robust, high-efficiency pumps that can last a century. They provide a long-term and secure water pumping solution. However, they are expensive or difficult to install at home.
2. Welded—These are the most commonly available manufactured ram pumps. They are strong but not as strong as the cast ones, but they can last over twenty years. Like the cast ones, they are also high-efficiency ram pumps. The Gilman Ram Pump is of this make.
3. Fitting—This is quickly done at home but doesn't last long because the threads and valves, which are primarily commercial, are not designed to withstand high pressures. It is recommended for low/low lift conditions or quick setup, primarily for home use.
4. Plastic or PVC—Plastics don't last under extreme pressure in high-fall and High-Lift conditions. High Fall means the ram pump is placed 3 meters below the water source, and High Lift means the water is delivered 30 meters above the ram pump.
How Does It Work?
1. Water enters from the drive tank and goes to the ram pump through the drive pipe.
2. The Impulse Valve slams close Once the water reaches its maximum speed. As it slams, the flowing water develops extreme pressure in the pump because of its inertia. The pressure forces open the Air Chamber Valve.
3. High-pressure water flows through the second valve into the air chamber and compresses the air inside. Compressed air develops and "rebounds" and closes the air chamber valve
4. Excess pressure is relieved at the snifter. Compressed air pushes the water through the delivery pipe.
5. The pump's pressure falls. Air enters the ram pump through the snifter. The Impulse valve opens to allow water to flow and build momentum again.
6. The air chamber valve closes.
7. The cycle starts over again.
5 Essential Things to Consider in Building an Efficient GILMAN Ram Pump System
1. Determine the water source's flow rate. Several methods can be used to determine the water source's flow rate. The Timer and Bucket Method is effective for tiny springs. Consider using the "weir" or "float" method for more significant streams or rivers.
2. It is essential to measure the elevation of the water source, the location of the ram pump, and the elevation at which the water will be delivered.
3. Calculate the inclined distance from the ram pump to the delivery point.
4. This information lets you accurately design your ram pump system.
