Airlift pump

An airlift pump is a simple pump which is powered by compressed air.

Additional recommended knowledge

Safe Weighing Range Ensures Accurate Results

What is the Sensitivity of my Balance?

Essential Laboratory Skills Guide

Airlift pumps are often used in deep dirty wells where sand would quickly abrade mechanical parts. (The compressor is on the surface and no mechanical parts are needed in the well). However airlift wells must be much deeper than the water table to allow for submergence. Air is generally pumped at least as deep under the water as the water is to be lifted. (If the water table is 50 ft below, your air should be pumped 100 feet deep).

Method of Operation

Typically, the compressed air is pumped down a pipe into a well and bubbles into another larger diameter pipe. The air bubbles return to the surface in the larger pipe. Since the resulting air-water mixture is less dense than the surrounding water, it rises and a fizzy spurting flow of air and water results.

See also

• Airlift (dredging device)