An incredible and sustainable solution! The hydraulic ram pump allows you to pump water at no cost and without electricity. Find out how it works!
Access to water is one of the most critical challenges for rural communities and arid regions around the world. Although technological advances have provided various ways of collecting and distributing this resource, not all of them are affordable or sustainable. An effective and low-cost solution is hydraulic ram pump, a mechanical device capable of pumping water without electricity or fossil fuels.
created in XVIII century, this technology continues to be a viable alternative for irrigation and water supply in places remote.
In this article, we explore the functioning, advantages and applications of this invention that combines efficiency and sustainability.
- Red onion waste creates shield for solar cells and blocks 99,9% of UV rays
- Goodbye, Wi-Fi? Meet Li-Fi, the 100x faster internet that could revolutionize the technology market
- The “Russian Google” is eyeing Brazil! Yandex announces billion-dollar investment in the national market
- Never before has humanity been so close to the 1,5°C climate limit. The year 2024 marks an unprecedented escalation of extreme events and drastic changes on Earth
What is a hydraulic ram pump?
A hydraulic ram pump It is a device that uses the energy of running water to raise part of the liquid to a greater height, without the need for external energy sources.
Its operating principle is based on water hammer, a hydraulic phenomenon that generates enough pressure to propel water to greater distances than the original source.
This mechanism is particularly useful in areas where there is natural slope and continuous watercourses, allowing communities and farmers to have access to a reliable water supply without significant operating costs.
Structure and components
The hydraulic ram pump has a simple design, consisting of few fundamental elements:
- Intake valve: controls the entry of water into the system;
- Scape valve: responsible for creating the water hammer by closing quickly;
- Air chamber: maintains constant pressure within the system, allowing continuous pumping;
- Inlet pipe: channels water from the source to the pump;
- Outlet pipe: carries the pumped water to the reservoir or place of consumption.
The manufacturing material can vary, including cast iron, stainless steel or PVC, depending on the desired durability and cost.
How does it work?
The hydraulic ram pump operates in a continuous cycle of three stages:
- Water inlet: water flows naturally into the pump through the inlet pipe.
- Water hammer: When the exhaust valve closes abruptly, the kinetic energy of the water creates an increase in pressure, pushing some of the liquid into the outlet pipe.
- Water elevation: the air chamber maintains pressure, allowing water to continue rising to the desired reservoir.
This process repeats automatically as long as there is water flow at the source and a minimum difference in level to generate the necessary thrust.
technology advantages
The adoption of the hydraulic ram pump presents a series of benefits:
- Energy self-sufficiency: dispenses with electricity and fossil fuels;
- Low operational cost: after installation, maintenance costs are reduced;
- Sustainability: does not emit pollutants or consume non-renewable resources;
- Durability: with few moving parts, wear is minimal, ensuring a long service life;
- Continuous use: can operate uninterruptedly as long as water flow is available.
These features make the ram pump an attractive option for small agricultural producers and communities that face difficulties in accessing drinking water.
Practical applications
Although it was initially designed for agriculture, this technology has several applications:
- Irrigation of crops in remote areas;
- Providing water to communities without electrical infrastructure;
- Collection of water from rivers and streams for domestic and livestock purposes;
- Rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable use.
In many parts of the world, NGOs and governments promote the implementation of these pumps as part of water security and sustainable development projects.
Regulation and feasibility
In several countries, the use of hydraulic ram pumps is subject to environmental regulations and water resource capture standards.
Depending on the location and volume of water extracted, a license may be required for its installation. However, many public policies encourage its adoption as a viable alternative for needy communities and family farmers.
Good morning, how do I buy one ready-made?