Table 5 lists minimum generator sizes based on typical 80 °C rise continuous duty generators, with 35% maximum voltage dip during starting, for Franklin’s three-wire motors, single- or three-phase.

This is a general chart. The generator manufacturer should be consulted whenever possible, especially on larger sizes.

There are two types of generators available: externally and internally regulated. Most are externally regulated. They use an external voltage regulator that senses the output voltage. As the voltage dips at motor start-up, the regulator increases the output voltage of the generator.

Internally regulated (self-excited) generators have an extra winding in the generator stator. The extra winding senses the output current to automatically adjust the output voltage.

Generators must be sized to deliver at least 65% of the rated voltage during starting to ensure adequate starting torque. Besides sizing, generator frequency is important as the motor speed varies with the frequency (Hz). Due to pump affinity laws, a pump running at 1 to 2 Hz below motor nameplate frequency design will not meet its performance curve. Conversely, a pump running at 1 to 2 Hz above may trip overloads.

Always start the generator before the motor is started and always stop the motor before the generator is shut down. The motor thrust bearing may be damaged if the generator is allowed to coast down with the motor running. This same condition occurs when the generator is allowed to run out of fuel.

Follow generator manufacturer’s recommendations for de-rating at higher elevations or using natural gas.

NOTE: Using the minimum rating or sized generator acts as a soft start to the motor. No additional voltage reduction is allowed.

It is recommended that one or more check valves always be used in submersible pump installations. If the pump does not have a built-in check valve, a line check valve should be installed in the discharge line within 25 feet of the pump and below the draw down level of the water supply. For deeper settings, check valves should be installed per the manufacturer’s recommendations. More than one check valve may be required, but more than the recommended number of check valves should not be used.

Swing type check valves are not acceptable and should never be used with submersible motors/pumps. Swing type check valves have a slower reaction time which can cause water hammer (see next page). Internal pump check valves or spring loaded check valves close quickly and help eliminate water hammer.

Check valves are used to hold pressure in the system when the pump stops. They also prevent backspin, water hammer and upthrust. Any of these can lead to early pump or motor failure.

NOTE: Only positive sealing check valves should be used in submersible installations. Although drilling the check valves or using drain-back check valves may prevent back spinning, they create upthrust and water hammer problems.

A. Backspin - With no check valve or a failed check valve, the water in the drop pipe and the water in the system can flow down the discharge pipe when the motor stops. This can cause the pump to rotate in a reverse direction. If the motor is started while it is backspinning, an excessive force is placed across the pump-motor assembly that can cause impeller damage, motor or pump shaft breakage, excessive bearing wear, etc.

B. Upthrust - With no check valve, a leaking check valve, or drilled check valve, the unit starts under a zero head condition. This causes an uplifting or upthrust on the impeller-shaft assembly in the pump. This upward movement carries across the pump-motor coupling and creates an upthrust condition in the motor. Repeated upthrust can cause premature failure of both the pump and the motor.

C. Water Hammer - If the lowest check valve is more than 30 feet above the standing (lowest static) water level, or a lower check valve leaks and the check valve above holds, a vacuum is created in the discharge piping. On the next pump start, water moving at very high velocity fills the void and strikes the closed check valve and the stationary water in the pipe above it, causing a hydraulic shock. This shock can split pipes, break joints and damage the pump and/or motor. Water hammer can often be heard or felt. When discovered, the system should be shut down and the pump installer contacted to correct the problem.

D. VFD Controlled Pump – Most standard spring-loaded check valves are not designed for variable flow conditions resulting in premature wear and noisy conditions that can transfer thru the system piping. For best service life and quietest operation use only check valves that are especially designed for variable flow conditions. The valve brands available on the market are generally marked as “VFD compatible”.