How does the Futurepump SF2H solar pump work?

What is the SF2H?

The SF2H is Futurepump’s high-head solar water pump. Compared to the SE1 and SF2 solar water pumps which each have a total head of 15m, the SF2H’s maximum total head is 45m (with 240W). 

That means this irrigation pump is perfect for moving water uphill, up a steep river bank, or into a water storage tank. 

Did you know that Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue is 38 meters tall – meaning that the SF2H can lift water even higher than that! 

Plus, with solar powered irrigation, there are zero fuel costs! Check out our “What is solar irrigation?” post to learn more. 

How the SF2H solar powered water pump works

The Futurepump SF2H solar water pump works via a series of interconnected parts. They work together to convert the sun’s energy into mechanical energy which draws water through the pump.

1. PV to MOTOR: solar PV panels power the DC motor on the pump
2. MOTOR to PULLEY: The motor then turns a pulley; the pulley can be placed in two gears (this optimises the pump for higher and lower lifts) The larger pulley setting is for low lifts this optimises for higher flowrate. The smaller pulley setting is for high lifts, this makes it easier for the pump to push water up.
3. PULLEY to FLYWHEEL: The pulley rests on the flywheel and makes it turn
4. FLYWHEEL to PISTON: The combination of the main shaft, bearings and a yoke change the rotational flywheel motion into an up and down force. This force moves a piston up and down in the pump cylinder.
5. THE PUMP: Inside the pump there are two valves, they ensure the pump sucks water in on the up stroke and pushes water out on the down stroke.

The Futurepump SF2H solar water pumping system

The SF2H solar water pump can be used in a wide variety of locations as long as there is sun and a suitable water source (shallow well, river, lake…).

At shallow heads, the Futurepump SF2H solar water pump can deliver up to 0.4 l/s, which is 1,440 l/hr (180W).

• Inlet side vertical suction limit: 7 meters
• Maximum total head with 120W: 25 meters
• Maximum total head with 240W: 45 meters
• Horizontal discharge: Up to 500 meters

The Futurepump SF2H solar water pump is compatible with:

• Direct irrigation using a hosepipe
• A maximum of 2 Sprinklers (available from Futurepump)
• Drip
• Overhead tanks

See how the Futurepump SF2H solar powered water pump works in this video:

More questions?

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