Fort Wayne, Ind., based pump and drive manufacturer Franklin Electric plans to unveil an updated SubDrive Utility Variable Frequency Drive enhanced to include submersible permanent split capacitor (PSC) and surface pump functionality.

The update was scheduled for rollout at the 2018 South Atlantic Jubilee. The drive now turns a variety of conventional water pumping systems into constant pressure systems, including 2-wire submersible pumping systems ranging from ⅓ hp up to 1½ hp, along with 115 V and 230 V single-phase 2-wire submersible PSC, above-ground booster, and jet pumps with overload current ratings from 4.6 A to 13.1 A. The company says drives already in the field will feature the same functionality after a firmware updated. Check the Downloads section of the SubDrive Utility product page on www.franklinwater.com.

The SubDrive Utility features a compact NEMA 3R enclosure rated for both indoor and outdoor use that provides a degree of protection against falling rain or sleet. Contractors can retrofit it to most submersible pumping systems utilizing a Franklin Electric 2-wire motor.

The company says the SubDrive Utility was designed for efficiency, both for cost and performance. Separate of the pump and motor, the drive makes troubleshooting and maintenance of the pumping system simple. In cases where the pump and/or motor requires replacement, it is fully functional with the new products, saving the hassle of added inventory. Standard-mesh screens minimize intrusion of insects and other performance inhibitors while still allowing for optimal cooling of the drive. SubDrive Utility ships standard with a traditional SubDrive pressure sensor, but is also fully compatible with an analog pressure transducer to provide added contractor flexibility.

Franklin Electric offers an array of systems and components for moving water and automotive fuels. It serves residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial and municipal customers around the world. For more information, visit www.franklinwater.com.