All About Hydraulic Ram Pumps
How and Where They Work
(ISBN 0-9631526-2-9)
The ram pump will pump water from a flowing source of water to a point above that source with no other power required. A full description of how to build and install one is contained in this book
WHAT IS A RAM PUMP?
Often called a water ram, one of these simple devices can pump water from a flowing source of water (spring, creek, river, etc.) to any point above the source, and this without any power requirement except the force of water moving downhill, contained inside a ‘drive pipe‘. This rugged and dependable device is typically installed today at remote home sites and cabins that are off the power grid and would otherwise be without a water supply. Sometimes a ram is used as a backup water system, or for watering livestock, gardens, decorative lily ponds, water wheels or fountains. Simply because a ram uses no power opens up a world of possibilities for using water that would otherwise flow on downstream,wasted. All that is really required is the surface water source. The water has to be moving, have a flow to it...not much, but some. The creek need not be large either - 4 gallons per minute is the minimum.
ABOUT THE BOOK
42 pages with illustrations and photos.
This book explains in simple terms and with illustrations how and where the ram pump works, how it can be set up, and how to keep it working year after year with a minimum of time and energy.
The second section of the book gives step-by-step plans for building a fully operational Atlas Ram Pump from readily available plumbing fittings, with NO welding, drilling, tapping or special tools needed. The design has evolved to a point where low maintenence and long term reliable service is almost certain, even by a novice.
The final chapter shows how to build an inexpensive ferro-cement water storage tank up to 15,000 gallon capacity.
FROM THE AUTHOR & PUBLISHER...
Years ago, when I moved to a remote cabin in The Smokies, there was no electricity available. There was a spring nearby, to get water from, but it had to be carried to the cabin. I knew this had to change, so I began to research some alternatives. Eventually I found some info about 'ram pumps' which looked promising.
That was many years ago and the ram I built then has gone through many changes. Feeling that there must be others with similar needs (there are!) I began to compile and draw and write. The book 'All About HYDRAULIC RAM PUMPS How and Where They Work' is the result. It contains plans for a design that has evolved through trial and error. The Atlas Ram is now simpler and cheaper to build, more reliable and efficient than ever. Any new developments and user experiences are added to each reprint of the book. It just keeps getting better! A great resource for self-reliant types, homesteaders, alternative energy users or anyone curious about this 'old-tech' device that has been around for so long and works so well.
Read below what some people have said about this book...
Reviewer: jtgookin@nols.edu from Lander, WY:
"Great little book! I have built and bought hydraulic ram pumps. I have bought the books from England, called ram builders all over the US, and searched the net. Don Wilson's book has the clearest directions I have seen."
Reviewer :Jim Martin, Williamson, NY:
"I received your book today and immediately read it from cover to cover. As a manufacturing engineer for over 30 years, I have been keenly interested in finding information on the Hydraulic Ram Pump. I would like to thank you for your very informative book. It is well written, very well illustrated..and the best investment I have made in years!"
Reviewer: Sue Story, Millers Creek, NC:
"We really enjoy the ram you helped us build. Thanks for just knowing we could call if we got snagged.
We've been enjoying our water without having to lug it uphill...for well over a year, with just our rigged improvisations of your instructions.
I had heard rams were noisy, but the steady thud reminds me of a quiet heartbeat and it beats with about the same cadence. I'd hardly call THAT noise. Thanks again for your book and help."
Contact and Ordering Information:
Rampumps.com
1435 Long Ridge Road
Hiawassee, Georgia 30546 USA
Click the mailbox to E-mail us.