Low cost pump-set
Two stroke engine, low power (1.5hp), a low fuel consumption (0,5 litres/hour), a suction head of 7 meters depth, a maximum total head of 30 meters, a maximum discharge of 25 cubic meters/hour, a weight of 15 kilos; this pump is imported from China at low cost with a monitoring of the quality of product by PRACTICA.
The context
Small scale irrigation, using small pump sets is becoming increasingly popular in West Africa. The biggest obstacle for farmers is the high cost of the pump-set (€ 300-600). PRACTICA identified a pump-set in China costing not more than about €140 (resale price for farmers) and aims to introduce this pump. Apart from having a low investment cost, the fuel consumption is also about 40% less than that of the presently available pump sets.
The technology
A two stroke engine, 1.5hp at 5000 rpm, driving a 2 inch pump. The pump characteristics are adapted for most small holder irrigation requirements.
The fuel consumption when pumping 3 l/s from 6m depth is 0.5 litres per hour. The advantage of a two stroke engine versus four stroke is that it generally lasts longer because of the absence of valves and a valve operating mechanism. It is also easier to repair and spare parts are cheaper. Experience in Nicaragua has shown that a lifetime in excess of 2000 hours is possible.
In certain cases it is possible to modify the motor to run on kerosene fuel as well instead of petrol. In most countries kerosene is widely available and cheaper than petrol. Tests in Madagascar has shown a reduction of the cost running of 25% with kerosene and a reduction of 60% of the cost running in comparison with petrol pump-set available on the local market
The application
The pumpset can be used on the shallow well or tube well, on the rivers and widely on the water surface. It supply water under pressure in PVC pipes or lay flat hoses directly connected to the outlet of the pump for the water needs of vegetable, fruit and rice crops .
This low cost pumpset is used in Madagascar (50 units), Burkina Faso (100 units), Nicaragua (70 units), Chad (50 units)
The facts
| Range of depth | 0 – 7 m |
| Yield | 8 cubic meter/hour with a head of 8 m |
| Total maximum head | 30 m |
| Maximum discharge | 25 cubic meter/hour |
| Maximum irrigated area | 1.5 hectares depending of the crop and the climate conditions |
| Inlet diameter | 50 mm |
| Outlet diameter | 50 mm |
| Engine | Two stroke of 1.5hp |
| Fuel consumption | 0.5 litres/hour (3 litres/sec at 6 m depth) |
| Weight | about 15 kg |
| Cost | €130 – €170 depending on country of implementation |
Training and introduction
PRACTICA can facilitate procurement of these pumps and spare parts from China, the establishment of a dealer network, training of mechanics and general promotion PRACTICA has developed an operation and maintenance manual.
