1982 - Volume #6, Issue #3, Page #14
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Solar Powered Water Pump
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The new solar system, introduced by Blue Sky Water Supply Co., Billings, Mont., is available as a portable or stationary unit. Either unit can be used to pump water at remote cabin or well sites, or as a booster pump to move water to outlying storage tanks.
The portable unit incorporates all the features of the permanently mounted system, with the potential to move from well to well, as required. The solar panels, battery and regulator and timer are trailer mounted, enabling it to be easily moved. The package includes a DC motor which readily adapts to most pump jacks, or to a special gear-driven pump which is available as part of the solar package.
Each solar panel is capable of producing 2.3 amps at 12 volts DC. Life expectancy of the panels is 35 years. They have no moving parts and are maintenance free and self-cleaning.
Batteries store power generated by the solar array, making it available at night and through periods of cloudy weather. The typical battery system will have a storage capacity equal to 3 to 5 days of normal operation, explains Shaw. Motors are available in 1/4 hp. 12 volt, 1/2 hp. 24 volt, and 3 hp. 24 volt.
A timer and regulator are incorporated in the system so water can be programmed to be made available at selected times. A 5 to 1 gear reduction box is sealed to avoid contaminants, and is approved for use where potable water is required.
Prices range from $3,000 to $6,500, depending on depth of the well and desired output. For example, a well 270 ft. deep requires 10 solar panels to produce 500 gal. per day, and 14 panels to produce 2,500 to 3,500 gal. A well 30 ft. deep requires only 4 solar panels if the daily pumping requirement is 500 gals., and 8 panels if 2,500 to 3,500 gal. per day are needed.
For more details, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Blue Sky Water Supply Co., P.O. Box 21359, Billings, Mont. 59104 (ph 406 259-0654).
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