Ultra-Durable Stainless Steel Submersible Pumps

KSB Pumps and Valves has launched a rugged, stainless steel submersible pump range that is designed for deep borehole use and other demanding freshwater and saline pumping applications.

The new CORAChrom pumps are considered a game changer for African conditions, with all wetted components – including diffusers – fabricated from corrosion-resistant high-grade AISI 304 stainless steel, or a choice of stainless steel or engineered polymer impellers, depending on the environment. This ensures the longest possible operational life, even in mineral-rich or aggressive groundwater.

According to KSB Pumps and Valves area manager Hugo du Plessis, the CORAChrom series is available in 100mm and 150mm multistage centrifugal variants, and is tailored to cope with the kind of variable borehole conditions and challenging water chemistry commonly encountered in South Africa and across the continent. This includes high iron or salt content, variable water tables, and unreliable electricity supply – especially in rural areas.

Unlike traditional cast iron or bronze pumps, which may degrade or clog over time, the new KSB CORAChrom submersible pumps use investment-cast stainless steel for key components, such as the suction housing and non-return valve. The range also features integrated intermediate bearings and a counter-thrust ring to support axial loads and extend bearing life to further enhance reliability.

“The pump’s lightweight modular design allows it to be installed vertically, horizontally or inclined, which makes it adaptable to a variety of borehole and tank installations. What really makes the CORAChrom unique is its wide power compatibility. It can operate on both single- and three-phase AC power and is also available in DC solar-ready options, which are proving especially valuable in off-grid or energy-constrained areas,” he says.

“Our CORAChrom pumps are capable of delivering flow rates of up to 12m³/h (200 litres per minute), with maximum heads of 638m at 50Hz (2 900rpm) or 780m at 60Hz (3 500rpm). Motors are available up to 22kW, depending on model and application. This is tested and certified in our global manufacturing sites, where each pump undergoes rigorous hydraulic testing under ISO 9906 Grade 3B standards, verifying its real-world efficiency.”

The KSB CORAChrom series is already gaining traction across multiple sectors with successful deployments in:

■      Borehole-based irrigation for farms and smallholdings.

■      Garden and nursery watering systems.

■      Domestic water supply in rural or peri-urban housing developments.

■      Dewatering and groundwater management in construction and mining.

■      Pressure boosting and cooling water systems in commercial and industrial buildings.

Du Plessis notes that in drought-prone areas such as the Northern Cape, Karoo and North West, where boreholes may be drilled to depths exceeding 500m and access to reliable electricity remain a challenge, the solar-ready DC models have proven to be game changers.

“These pumps deliver excellent output per watt-peak (Wp), even in low light conditions, which makes them ideal for solar applications. It’s part of KSB’s commitment to sustainable water access and long-term value for our customers,” he says.

As with all KSB products, the CORAChrom range is backed by KSB’s extensive South African sales and service network, with expert support and technical backup available through its nationwide branches and distributors.