Steel Wire Rope

Why is steel wire rope used with a submersible pump?

Borehole pumps, together with the column pipe and the full water column inside, create a considerable weight. Leaving the entire load on the pipe or cable can over time cause connections to loosen, the pipe to break, and the pump to fall into the well. Steel wire rope is the safety element used to suspend the pump securely and to pull it up when needed. Retrieving a pump that has fallen into a well is both difficult and costly; a wire rope greatly reduces this risk.

The advantage of insulated wire rope

Plastic-coated (insulated) steel wire rope slows down corrosion of the wires that are in direct contact with the well water. The coating also prevents the rope from abrading the well casing or cable through friction. The ends of the rope are secured with rope clamps (compression fittings) of the appropriate size; using more than one clamp per connection increases safety.

Selection and installation recommendations

• Select the rope diameter based on the combined weight of the pump, pipe, and water column; if in doubt, choose the next size up.
• Cut the rope to the sum of the pump installation depth and the connection allowance at the wellhead.
• Attach the rope to the suspension hole in the pump body and secure it to a fixed point at the wellhead.
• After tightening the clamps, recheck the connection on the first lift.

When pulling the pump up, make sure the rope is carrying the load and that the pipe and cable are not under tension.

Frequently asked questions

Stainless steel rope or insulated steel wire rope?

Both can be used in a well. Stainless steel rope is more resistant to corrosion; insulated steel wire rope is an economical option and is protected against abrasion by its coating.

Should the rope run alongside the cable?

The rope, cable, and pipe are lowered together; the cable is clamped to the pipe, and the rope is positioned so that it does not rub against the cable.

Where can I find other installation materials?

For parts such as column pipe, flange, and electrode, you can browse the submersible pump equipment category.

How often should I inspect the rope?

Every time you pull the pump up, inspect the rope's coating, wires, and clamp connections. If you notice a broken wire, crushing, or rust, replace the rope.

Can rope be used instead of wire rope?

For lightweight drainage pumps in shallow wells, durable synthetic rope may be sufficient. For borehole pumps, steel wire rope should be used as it can safely carry the load.