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About DAB
Glossary
A
Absorbed Power, P1
It’s the power that the pump draws from the motor to transfer power to the liquid. Not all of this absorbed power is converted into delivered power, as some energy is lost due to friction and inefficiencies within the pump itself. The delivered power is always less than the absorbed power. The ratio between these two values is known as efficiency, and it is always a number less than 1.
AISI XXXX
It's an acronym for the American Iron and Steel Institute, which provides a worldwide standard for identifying the properties of steel and its alloys (XXXX) used in various products.
Alternate Current
Alternating current (AC) is a form of electrical power distribution where the electric current periodically reverses its direction.
Asynchronous Motor
An asynchronous motor is an electric motor that utilises the flow of current through the stator to rotate the rotor. When a three-phase current is applied, it creates a rotating magnetic field, which causes the rotor to spin. The term "asynchronous" refers to the fact that the rotor turns slightly slower than the magnetic field.
Axial Pumps/In-line Pumps
Pumps are classified as axial or in-line based on the direction of the liquid flow. They are termed "axial" when the suction and delivery ports are aligned on the same axis.
B
Backward Impeller
A backward impeller is primarily used in pumps designed for draining sewage. It is called "backward" because its design is positioned away from the bottom of the pump, making it more effective for handling water that contains solid particles or particularly dense liquids.
Bar
Pressure measurement unit. The official unit of measurement for pressure in the International System is the Pascal (Pa), named after the French mathematician, physicist, and philosopher Blaise Pascal. However, the bar is more commonly used in practice. For quick calculations, the following formula is helpful: 1 bar = 10 m.w.c.
Basket
In swimming pool pumps, a basket is a perforated, bucket-shaped container that filters out solid debris.
Best Efficiency Point
The Best Efficiency Point (BEP) on a pump performance curve is the operating point where the pump is most efficient, meaning it delivers the highest flow rate for the least amount of energy input. Operating near the BEP is essential for maximising the pump's lifespan, minimising energy consumption, and reducing maintenance requirements.
Blow
It refers to a (negative) hydraulic phenomenon that occurs when a valve is suddenly opened or when the flow of fluid within the pipes is abruptly interrupted. This phenomenon can cause damage to the pipes and mechanical components of the pump if the fluid strikes the pipe walls too forcefully.
Booster
A booster is a pump designed to provide high pressure at the delivery port.
Booster Set
A booster set consists of two or more pumps connected in parallel, aiming to increase the flow rate and maintain high pressure at the delivery port.
Bottom Valve
It serves the same function as a retention valve but is located inside the tank from which the pump draws suction water.
Breaking Tank
A breaking tank is installed to separate the boosting system from the water mains for operational and safety reasons.
Breather Plug
A breather plug is a threaded plug located on the front panel of circulators. It allows you to remove air and unlock the motor using a screwdriver.
Bushing
A bushing, often referred to as a bearing, consists of two parts: one part is housed within the support body, while the other part is fitted onto the pivot of the body being supported.
C
Capacitor
A capacitor is an electrical component that enables the operation of single-phase motors. It is essential for starting single-phase motors, but is not found in three-phase motors.
Cavitation
In the context of pumps, cavitation refers to the phenomenon that occurs when the pressure at a specific point within the pump decreases, causing the liquid to turn into gas bubbles. These unstable bubbles collapse when they move into a higher-pressure area, creating vibrations that can damage the pump's materials or components over time. The impeller is typically the part most affected by this phenomenon.
CBS
Acronym for Commercial Building Service.
Centrifugal Pump
Centrifugal pumps use an impeller to move fluids through the pump, generating centrifugal force through the mechanical movement of the impeller itself. All of our pumps are centrifugal.
Check Valve
A check valve is designed to allow water to flow in only one direction. It must be installed on the discharge side of the pump to protect it from back pressure.
Circulator
A circulator is a pump used to move water in heating and cooling systems within a closed circuit, often with added glycols.
Clean Water
"Clean water" refers to drinking water, while "dirty water" indicates water that contains chemicals or impurities. It’s essential to know which type of water we are handling in order to select and use the appropriate pump.
Closed Impeller
A closed impeller is not suitable for pumping liquids containing suspended solids; however, it has a higher efficiency compared to open impellers.
Constant Differential Pressure
In heating and cooling systems, constant differential pressure refers to a scenario where the pressure remains unchanged even when the flow rate varies.
Control Panel
It’s an electrical or electronic board that manages the operation of pumps based on specific conditions (e.g. when a float switch is turned on).
D
Delivered Power
Delivered power refers to the energy that the pump transfers to the liquid. This power depends on three key factors: flow rate, head, and the specific weight of the liquid being pumped. The higher these three factors, the greater the delivered power from the pump. To operate, a pump is driven by a motor, and the power required for its function is known as absorbed power.
Delivery
The delivery point is where water exits the pump. It flows out through the impeller to the pump body, where it gains increased pressure and speed.
Delta Connection (∆)
A type of electrical connection used in three-phase motors. A delta connection provides the same line voltage to the motor windings.
Differential Pressure
Differential pressure is the difference in pressure between two points in a system, typically measured before and after a device, such as a sand filter in swimming pools. It is particularly important in HVAC systems, as it helps modulate the speed of circulators.
Diffuser
A diffuser is a mechanical component found in multistage pumps, designed to channel water from one impeller to the next.
Dip Switch
An electronic component used in devices that can be manually toggled on or off.
DNA (DAB Navigator Application)
DNA, or the DAB Navigator Application, is software designed to help users find the pump model that best suits their needs in just a few seconds. DNA uses two logical selection criteria: hydraulic performance and pump model. The software provides access to the full list of spare parts and all relevant technical documentation. It is a user-friendly selection tool suitable for engineers, installers, retailers, and end users alike.
Dry Run
'A "dry run" occurs when a pump operates without any liquid. A pump should never dry run, as it can overheat and damage its components if they are not sufficiently cooled by the liquid. There are devices designed to prevent pumps from running in the absence of liquid.
Duty Point
It is the intersection between the plant curve and the hydraulic pump curve; it indicates where the pump stabilises to ensure a certain level of performance. This point can be calculated using our DNA software.
E
Efficiency
The efficiency of a pump is determined by dividing the delivered power by the absorbed power, typically expressed as a percentage. For example, an efficiency of 75% means that 75% of the absorbed power is converted into delivered power, while the remaining 25% is lost due to friction. Higher efficiency indicates a smaller proportion of absorbed power being wasted. The efficiency of a pump is one of the best indicators of its quality, as it directly relates to savings in operating costs.
EI of a Motor
The Energy Index (EI) is a classification system for the energy efficiency of electrical motors. In the past, EI1 motors were common, but advancements have led to improvements in energy efficiency. Today, many motors are classified as EI2 or EI3, while permanent magnet motors are usually classified as EI5.
Electronic Circulator
It is a pump designed to facilitate water flow within heating and conditioning pipelines. The integrated electronic board (inverter or VFD) enables the circulator to adjust its duty point based on the actual needs of the system, and save energy.
Energy Efficiency Index (EEI)
The Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) measures the efficiency of a circulator, with lower values indicating higher efficiency.
ErP
The Energy-related Products (ErP) Directive is a European regulation that requires manufacturers to improve the energy efficiency of their products.
Ethernet/Ethernet Cable
A family of computer networking technologies. Currently, Ethernet cables should be at least Category 6. These cables are equipped with connectors known as RJ-45.
Expansion Tank/Vessel
It is a container that mitigates pressure fluctuations in hydraulic systems. It also provides pressurised water to meet small demands.
Exploded View Drawing
It is a graphic representation of an object. In our DNA software, exploded product drawings are always included to help identify the specific codes for spare parts.
F
Fan
A fan is typically placed on the back of electrical motors to aid in cooling.
Firefighting Pump
It is a specialised pump designed for early fire suppression. It must comply with specific regulations (EN 12845 in Europe).
Fixed Speed Curve
It is one of the selectable curves for an electronic circulator. It indicates that the pump head increases as the flow rate decreases. This curve is equivalent to a standard pump curve and operates at lower motor speeds, contributing to energy savings.
Flange
A flange is a circular plate used to couple tubes together using screws or bolts.
Flooded Suction
An installation where the pump suction is placed below the water level.
Flow/Flow Rate
It refers to the volume of liquid that is moved within a specific time frame. It is measured in cubic metres per hour (m³/h), cubic metres per second (m³/s), or litres per minute (l/min).
Free Passage
Free passage indicates the maximum size of solids that a wastewater pump can handle: - 10 mm: drainage pumps - 25 mm: pumps for effluent water - 50 mm: pumps for sewage
G
Geodetic Height
Geodetic height is the vertical distance from the water intake point (where the pump draws water) to the highest point in the system (where the water is delivered).
Glycol
Glycol is a chemical compound used as antifreeze in closed hydraulic circuits.
Ground Water
Ground water refers to water that is collected in the soil and underground, below ground level.
H
H2D
It’s the new DAB app designed for both professionals and end users, which enables the remote control of your pumps.
Head
This refers to a pump's capacity to lift a specific volume of water to a certain height. It is typically measured in metres of water column (m.w.c). 10 m.w.c = 1 bar
Head Losses
These represent the energy lost due to friction within the pipes, passing through valves, elbows, and other fittings. Head losses reduce a pump's ability to deliver the necessary pressure. For example, if the pipes are too narrow, the pump may struggle to provide the required amount of water at the desired pressure.
Hertz
Hertz is the unit of frequency in the International System of Units (SI). In the electrical grid, the frequency can be either 50 Hz (in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia) or 60 Hz (in North and South America). The unit is named after the German physicist Heinrich Rudolf Hertz, who studied electromagnetic waves in the mid-1800s. Electric motors are designed to operate at a specific frequency. Some of our pump motors are designed to operate independently of whether the frequency is 50 Hz or 60 Hz.
HP - Horse Power
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, with various standards and types. Mechanical horsepower (also known as imperial horsepower) is defined as: 1 hp = 1.014 CV or 745.69 W.
HVAC
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, which is a significant market for DAB. The pumps used in this application are known as circulators or in-line pumps.
Hydraulic Power
Hydraulic power is the energy transferred from the motor to the water in terms of speed and pressure, measured in watts (W).
I
Impeller
The impeller is a disk with blades that facilitates liquid flow by drawing fluid from one pipe and pushing it into another through centrifugal force. This rotating component, driven by the motor's shaft, enhances the head, pressure, and flow of the liquid, depending on its own characteristics such as thickness and diameter. Impellers can be made from various materials, including metals (cast iron, bronze, steel) or technopolymers (e.g., Noryl or Ultem), and are suited for different conditions (low/high temperatures, corrosion resistance, varying pH levels, etc.). The use of multiple impellers can increase the head and pressure of the fluid.
In-line Pump
An in-line pump is one in which the delivery and suction ports are placed on the same axis.
Inlet
The inlet of a pump is the opening or port through which fluid enters the pump.
Installer Menu
The 'installer menu' is so named because changes made within it affect the operation of the pump and should only be performed by experienced personnel, such as installers. The procedures for accessing the installer menu vary by product. All of our manuals are available on our website or through DAB DNA Software.
Insulation Class
The insulation class indicates a device's ability to resist dust and water. It is measured using the IP (Ingress Protection) classification.
Intake Duct
The intake duct is the pipe that delivers liquid to the pump.
International System of Measurement
Also known as the decimal metric system, it is the most widely used unit of measurement globally, with the exception of the United States. It was established in 1889 to standardise units of measure and has been referred to as the International System (SI) since 1961.
Inverter (VFD)
An inverter, or Variable Frequency Drive (VFD), is a device that changes the voltage and frequency of alternating current at the output. This change allows for the adjustment of an electric motor's operating speed (in this case, pumps). VFDs help us save energy by enabling the motor to operate at variable speeds instead of at maximum speed. While an inverter is not essential for the pump's operation, its use is becoming increasingly common.
IPXX
An acronym for "International Protection," indicated by two digits following the letters "IP." The first digit ranges from 0 to 6 and represents the level of protection against the entry of small solid bodies, such as sand or dust. A rating of 0 indicates no protection, while a rating of 6 indicates maximum protection. The second digit ranges from 0 to 9 and measures protection against liquid entry, with 0 signifying no protection and 9 representing maximum protection.
J
Jockey Pump
A jockey pump is used in firefighting systems; it is smaller than firefighting pumps. It is designed to fill the delivery pipeline when there is a leak in the system that could trigger the activation of the main pump.
L
LAN
A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network of interconnected computers that can communicate with each other but are not necessarily connected to the Internet.
Liquid Temperature
It refers to the temperature of water. For water boosting, the standard water temperature typically does not exceed 30 to 40°C. In HVAC systems, it can vary from -10°C to 110°C.
M
Maximum Ambient Temperature
The maximum ambient temperature is the highest temperature that a pump can withstand. It influences the pump's ability to cool its motor effectively.
Maximum Operating Pressure
It is the highest pressure the pump can handle without experiencing internal damage.
Mechanical Power, P2
It refers to the output or shaft power of the motor. It represents the mechanical energy delivered to the equipment being driven, such as a pump.
Mechanical Seal
It is a device that prevents the leakage of fluids or gases from a pump by sealing the area where the rotating shaft enters or exits the pump casing. This component is essential for maintaining the integrity of the pumping system, ensuring efficient operation, and preventing costly losses or environmental contamination. It is called "mechanical" because it consists of components that are pressed together by a spring to prevent liquid from reaching the motor's electrical parts.
Metres of Water Column, m.w.c.
Meters of water column (m.w.c.) is a unit of measurement for head pressure. For instance, 10 m.w.c. corresponds to 1 bar of pressure (100 kPa).
Motor Rotation Direction
The direction of rotation of a motor can only be reversed in three-phase motors (single-phase motors always rotate in the same direction regardless of how the terminals are connected). This is an important feature to verify when installing a three-phase pump to ensure proper operation. If the rotation direction is incorrect, disconnect the power and swap any two of the three phase conductors. For detailed instructions, refer to the specific product manual available on our website or in our DNA Software.
Multistage Pump
A multistage pump is one that has two or more impellers connected to the same shaft.
N
Negative Suction Head
Negative Suction Head
NPSH
Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) is a crucial parameter in pump systems, particularly for centrifugal pumps. It indicates the pressure at the suction side of the pump and is defined as the difference between the suction pressure at the pump and the vapour pressure of the liquid being pumped. NPSH is expressed as a head (in feet or metres) rather than as pressure and is essential for preventing cavitation. Cavitation occurs when vapour bubbles form in the pump due to low pressure, which can potentially damage the pump. Also, NPSH(a)>NPSH(r).
O
O-Ring
An O-ring is a circular rubber ring that serves as a gasket.
P
Permanent Magnet Motor
It’s an electric motor in which the rotor is magnetised by a magnet embedded in or attached to the rotor, generating a magnetic field. This type of motor is generally much more efficient than a standard asynchronous motor.
pH
In chemistry, pH is a numeric scale used to specify the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution. The pH scale ranges from 1 to 14, where 1 is extremely acidic, 14 is extremely basic, and 7 is neutral.
Pressure
A pressure drop refers to the loss of energy that occurs due to the friction of liquid against the walls of a pipe (viscous friction). Localised pressure drops can occur because of factors such as shrinkage, bends, or valves within the piping system.
Pressure Switch
A pressure switch is a device designed to activate or deactivate a machine or motor when a specified pressure value is reached.
Priming
Priming is the process of filling a pump with the liquid it is intended to move. This is typically done to remove air from the pump's casing and suction line before operation. Proper priming ensures that the pump can create the necessary suction to draw in liquid and pump it out effectively.
Proportional Differential Pressure
Proportional differential pressure in heating and cooling systems refers to a curve that allows the pump speed to adjust based on the difference in pressure between the supply and return lines. This mechanism ensures consistent differential pressure across the system, regardless of varying flow rates or changes in system resistance.
Pump
A pump is a mechanical device that converts mechanical energy into hydraulic energy, typically resulting in the flow of pressurised fluid.
Pump Body
The pump body is the main housing of the pump. It contains the impeller and directs the flow of fluid through the pump.
Pump Curve
The pump curve represents the performance characteristics of a pump. Each pump has its own curve, which shows the relationship between the flow rate being pumped and the generated head.
PVC
Polyvinyl chloride is a polymer derived from vinyl chloride, and it is a versatile plastic material used in various applications, including water pipes, electrical wiring, flooring, and window structures.
R
Rainwater System (RWS)
This refers to the various devices used to filter, collect, and make rainwater available for use, such as for toilet tanks.
Ratiometric Sensor
An analogue sensor that produces a signal ranging from 0 to 5 volts.
RBS
Acronym for “Residential Building Service”.
Relay
An electrical device that is controlled by variations in current.
Rotor
In electric motors, the rotor is the rotating component that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy (rotational force). This part spins when the motor is energised, enabling the motor to function properly.
Rotor Sleeve
A mechanical component used in electric motors, particularly in surface-mounted permanent magnet motors, which retains the rotor components and provides structural integrity.
S
Self-Priming Pump
This type of pump can automatically remove air from its suction line and pump body, allowing it to draw liquid without needing manual priming (filling with liquid before starting).
Setpoint
It is a value that can be set manually or configured through an initial setup wizard in some of our products. This setpoint represents the desired pressure or flow rate delivered by the pump.
Sewage
This term refers to wastewater that contains fecal matter.
Shaft
The shaft is a mechanical component, similar to a stainless steel rod, that transfers energy from the motor to the impeller.
Specific Weight of a Liquid
The specific weight of a liquid or fluid is the weight per unit volume of that liquid. It is typically measured in kg/dm³ or kg/L (where one L is equal to 1 dm³).
Star Connection (Y)
A type of electrical connection used in three-phase motors. This connection reduces the line voltage from 400 V to 230 V across the windings. In a 230 V line, it can also further decrease the operating voltage, resulting in a voltage of 155 V across the windings, which helps reduce power consumption.
Star-Delta Start Up
The star-delta startup method is used in three-phase motors to facilitate a lower power start, minimising electric current during startup. The motor begins in the star configuration and transitions to the delta connection after a few moments. In high-power motors, the "star-delta" starter is employed to prevent excessive current at startup. This delicate process requires a special timer, usually lasting about half a second, which is just enough to activate the remote control switches. When starting in the star configuration, the starting current is reduced to 1/3 of what it would normally be. However, once the motor is stopped, it does not revert to the star configuration during the restart process.
Stator
In electric motors, the stator is the stationary part of an electric motor or generator, while the rotor is the moving component.
Submersible Pump
A submersible pump is designed to operate fully submerged in the liquid it is meant to pump.
Suction Depth
Suction depth refers to the vertical distance (in metres) between the suction port of a pump and the water level.
T
Terminal Block
A terminal block serves as a connection point for motors to electrical lines. In three-phase motors, connections can be configured in a delta or star arrangement, which can be changed by adjusting the position of the connector.
Three-Phase
A three-phase system consists of three AC circuits, commonly used in Italy and Europe, operating at 400 volts and 50 Hz. Three-phase connections can be made in either star or delta configurations.
Three-Speed Circulator
It is a pump designed for HVAC applications that allows users to select from three different duty curves, achieved by varying the motor speed. This technology has now been largely replaced by electronic circulators.
Twin Pump/Twin Set
Two pumps operating in parallel. Typically, one pump serves as a backup to the other in case of a failure.
V
Valve
A valve is a device or mechanism used to regulate the flow of fluids or gases within pipes.
Variable Frequency Driver (VFD)
An inverter, or Variable Frequency Drive (VFD), is a device that changes the voltage and frequency of alternating current at the output. This change allows for the adjustment of an electric motor's operating speed (in this case, pumps). VFDs help us save energy by enabling the motor to operate at variable speeds instead of at maximum speed. While an inverter is not essential for the pump's operation, its use is becoming increasingly common.
Venturi Nozzle
A Venturi nozzle is a flow measurement device that utilises the Venturi effect to determine the flow rate of a fluid. It consists of a converging inlet, a narrow throat, and a diverging outlet. It is similar to a Venturi tube, but it has a more compact design.
Volt
The volt is the unit of measurement in the International System of Units (SI) for electrical potential difference.
Voltage
Voltage is created by the separation of electrical charges and facilitates the flow of current. Its unit of measurement is the Volt, and it can be categorised as either single-phase or three-phase.
W
Waste Water
Waste water refers to water that has been contaminated and is unsuitable for drinking. Pumps designed to move this type of water are known as waste water or sewage pumps.
Water Transfer
Water transfer is an application where water needs to be moved from one specific point to another, typically a tank. The pump is operated by float switches and is designed to work at a specific and fixed duty point.
Water-Cooled Motor
A water-cooled motor utilises pumped water for cooling, making it significantly quieter than a standard motor that relies on fans.
Watt
It is the standard unit of power in the International System of Units (SI). It is named after James Watt (1736 - 1819) for his contributions to the development of the steam engine. This measurement is always included in the technical sheets of our products.
Wet Rotor Circulator
A wet rotor circulator is a type of circulator in which the rotor is cooled by the liquid itself.
Windings
Windings refer to the coils found in electrical motors. These coils are arranged in specific configurations and connected together.