During starting of a submersible pump, the torque
developed by the motor must be supported through the
pump, delivery pipe or other supports. Most pumps rotate
in the direction which causes unscrewing torque on
right-handed threaded pipe or pump stages. All threaded
joints, pumps and other parts of the pump support system
must be capable of withstanding the maximum torque
repeatedly without loosening or breaking. Unscrewing
joints will break electrical cable and may cause loss of the
pump-motor unit.
To safely withstand maximum unscrewing torques with
a minimum safety factor of 1.5, tightening all threaded
joints to at least 10 lb. ft per motor horsepower is
recommended (Table 4A). It may be necessary to tack
or strap weld pipe joints on high horsepower pumps,
especially at shallower settings.
Table 4A Torque Required (Examples)
| Motor
Rating |
Minimum
Safe
Torque-Load |
| HP |
KW |
| 1
HP & Less |
.75
KW & Less |
10 lb. Ft |
| 20
HP |
15
KW |
200 lb. Ft |
| 75
HP |
55
KW |
750 lb. Ft |
| 200
HP |
150
KW |
2000 lb.Ft |
|