Pump Station Components: Chambers, Lids, Pumps & Alarm Systems

Pump Stations play a crucial role in efficiently transferring stormwater and wastewater from low-lying areas to higher ground. Choosing the right pump station components ensures reliable operation, reduces maintenance, and helps prevent costly downtime.

A well-designed pumping station includes several key components - chambers, lids, pumps, pipe kits, and high level alarm systems. These components work together to maintain system performance and meet Australian standards.

For plumbers, selecting the correct components of a pumping station is essential for long-term performance and durability. Let's take a closer look at each element.

Chambers - A Core Component of Pumping Stations

The chamber forms the core of any pump station setup. It acts as a collection point for stormwater or wastewater before it’s pumped away. The chamber helps regulate flow and ensures the pump can operate efficiently without constant cycling.

We supply a range of polyethylene pump station chambers in various sizes to suit different applications. Our smallest chamber, the PS02, has a capacity of 280L, while the largest, the PS50, holds up to 5000L.

    

Choosing the Right Lids for your Pump Station

Pump station lids are important for both safety and system integrity. The right lid depends on the size of the chamber opening and the application type - residential, commercial or industrial. 

Our range includes:

• Light duty hinged aluminium lids for standard applications.
• Cast iron covers in Class B and Class D load ratings, available in two sizes.
• Grated covers (in light and heavy-duty options) for stormwater pump stations, allowing surface water drainage. These grates also come in two size options. 

Choosing the correct lid helps protect the pump station from debris and surface water, and prevents unauthorised access.          
        

Galvanised grate Class D 

Pumps - The Powerhouse of Your Pumping Stations

Pumps are the driving force of any pump station. They move liquid from the chamber to the discharge point and need to be selected based on what type of liquid is being transferred -stormwater or sewage. 

• Sewer pumps are specifically designed to handle liquid that contains soft solids like raw sewerage and blackwater. Our submersible Cutter and Grinder pumps support a flow rate range of 0.2l/s – 7.1l/s.
• Stormwater pumps are built to manage rainwater and stormwater runoff, typically dealing with larger volumes of water that contain debris like leaves and soil. Our Drainage and Vortex pumps offer a flow rate range of 0.3l/s –  26.7/s.

Both types of pumps are essential for maintaining effective stormwater and drainage systems in residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

Grinder pump

Pipe Kits - An Important Pump Station Component

The pipe kit is an essential pump station component. It connects the pump to the rising main and is pre-mounted before delivery to simplify on-site installation.

While often confused with the rising main, the pipekit refers to the internal pipework connected to the pump. The rising main (or discharge pipe) connects  to the pipekit and transfers the water away from the chamber to the discharge location. 

Together, these two components work in unison to transfer and dispose of the pressurised water safely and efficiently. 

Importance of Alarm Systems & Pump Station Controllers

Pump station control systems are key to reliable performance and early detection of issues. They monitor levels inside the chamber and provide alerts when the liquid becomes too high, indicating possible pump failure, blockages, or control issues. We offer two primary alarm systems for our packages:

• A high-level alarm - available as an add-on for single pump stations. This alarm system includes a high-level float that sits inside the chamber to monitor the liquid level.
• Pump station controller – automatically included if you have a dual pump station. The controller selection is based on the application requirements and the amperage of the pumps to ensure efficient operation.
  

A reliable alarm or pump station controller is essential for maintaining efficient wastewater and stormwater management, minimising disruptions, and protecting infrastructure.

High level alarm 15/20m

Selecting Pump Station Components for Your Project

Now that you have a clear understanding of the essential pump station components, you can make a more informed decision when selecting a system for your project. To get started on the process, create an account and use our pump station selector tool. This user-friendly tool allows you to specify your project requirements and receive instant online quotes 24/7. Once you've built your package, you can conveniently purchase it online with a delivery fee included anywhere in Australia. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components of a pumping station?
A typical pump station includes a chamber, lid, pump(s), pipe kit, and either a high-level alarm or a pump station control system.

What is the role of a pump station controller?
A pump station controller manages the operation of dual pumps, monitors performance, and provides alerts for faults or rising water levels.

Do I need a high-level alarm?
Yes, especially for single pump systems. A high-level alarm helps prevent overflows by alerting you to pump failure or blocked discharge lines.