Impact of net positive suction head on the design and operation of seawater pumping systems for use in aquaculture

There are a number of different types of pumping systems that can be used for marine aquaculture systems. Five common types include: (a) pier mounted pumps, (b) package pump stations, (c) submersible pumps, (d) float mounted pumps, and (e) pumps that only operated over part of the tidal cycle. The ability of these systems to successfully operate under tidal conditions at 48 sites along the United States coasts was evaluated as a function of pump elevation, suction side head losses, water temperature, and salinity. This analysis provides insight into the relative advantages and disadvantages of each approach and presents procedures to assist in the engineering analysis for specific applications.