The Q Series from EBARA PUMPS EUROPE is a comprehensive range of electronic control panels purpose-built for single-phase and three-phase submersible borehole, well, drainage, and wastewater pumps. Unlike a generic motor starter, the Q Series integrates pump-specific features: a motor run capacitor (pre-wired for single-phase models), a thermal overload relay with manual reset for motor protection, and an illuminated bipolar main switch. The three sub-series — QEM (single-phase, 0.37–2.2 kW), QET (three-phase, 0.37–37 kW), and QSM (single-phase with conductive level probe inputs, 0.37–2.2 kW) — cover the full spectrum from domestic borehole pumps to commercial wastewater lifting stations.

How does the Q Series automatic operation mode work?

An integrated auxiliary contact terminal accepts an external volt-free control device — typically a float switch for tank level control or a pressure switch for pressurized water systems. In automatic mode, the pump starts when the float rises (high water level) or pressure drops (tap opened) and stops when the float drops (low water level) or pressure recovers (tap closed). The manually resettable thermal overload relay interrupts motor current during overcurrent events — such as a blocked impeller or dry-running condition — protecting the motor winding from burnout without requiring an external protection relay. This manual reset acts as a deliberate operator intervention point: someone must physically visit the panel and press the reset button, ensuring the cause of the overload is investigated before the pump is returned to service.

What distinguishes the QEM, QET, and QSM sub-series?

The QEM series serves single-phase submersible pumps with integrated motor capacitor (12.5–80 μF depending on motor power) and a current range of 5–20 A, covering 3" and 4" borehole pumps from 0.37 to 2.2 kW. The QET three-phase series eliminates the capacitor and extends the power range to 37 kW (50 HP) with current handling up to 85 A for 6" and larger pumps, using a selector switch for manual/automatic mode selection. The QSM series adds conductive level probe inputs for installations where float switches are impractical — deep boreholes, narrow casings, or turbulent water surfaces — and otherwise mirrors the QEM single-phase power range and capacitor-integrated design. All variants share the same thermoplastic IP44 enclosure, ±10% voltage tolerance, and 50/60 Hz frequency compatibility.