Pump recommendation for drip tape

[Danslo]

I searched the forum and found a thread related to mine at
https://terrylove.com/forums/index.php?threads/pump-for-a-small-scale-drip-irrigation-system.62439/

I am looking for a pump that will supply 30-50 psi to an irrigation valve for drip tape manifold. I am anticipating 2-4 gpm. My water source is a 4' tall 330 gallon tank. Im having a difficult time locating a submersible pump that can meet these requirements. A 1/2 hp external cast iron jet pump is what I was recommended, I'm not sure if this is the best choice and I'm not sure if I need a pressure tank for it. Also what would be the priming issues, if any, I would experience if using a jet pump?
Thanks for the feedback!

 

[Valveman]

30/50 PSI sounds like a lot for drip tape. Mine runs on a 15 PSI regulator. Any jet pump or small submersible can easily run as little as 1 GPM without problems. With a sub you don't have to worry about priming. A pressure tank/pressure switch just makes the pump come on and go off automatically when water is needed. A CSV will hold steady pressure to the drip, adjust pump output to match the amount being used (2-4 GPM), and keep the pump from cycling itself to death when using a pressure tank. But the CSV can also be used without a pressure tank/pressure switch if your pump is turned on by a pump start relay in the irrigation controller.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Danslo]

Thanks for the reply,
I plan on running each manifold w a 10 psi regulator, the reason for the higher psi was to properly activate the irrigation valves. They don't operate well with the low psi from my sump pump(4-5psi at the end of the drip tape). The pump start relay with csv is a great idea, thanks for all your help valveman, much appreciated!
The priming shouldnt be an issue once it has been primed and I don't get air in the suction line correct?

30/50 PSI sounds like a lot for drip tape. Mine runs on a 15 PSI regulator. Any jet pump or small submersible can easily run as little as 1 GPM without problems. With a sub you don't have to worry about priming. A pressure tank/pressure switch just makes the pump come on and go off automatically when water is needed. A CSV will hold steady pressure to the drip, adjust pump output to match the amount being used (2-4 GPM), and keep the pump from cycling itself to death when using a pressure tank. But the CSV can also be used without a pressure tank/pressure switch if your pump is turned on by a pump start relay in the irrigation controller.

 

[Valveman]

The priming shouldnt be an issue once it has been primed and I don't get air in the suction line correct?

With a tank that is "4' tall", as long as the water level is above the pump it is called a flooded suction and the will always be primed.