Confining layers of clay and silt are found throughout Nebraska. Some confining layers are found where the bedrock has been tightly cemented, such as in the Ogallala formation. Confining layers may be encountered in many areas of Nebraska. Some known areas of confined aquifer in Nebraska. Potential Pump Damage Can Be Averted Pump damage can occur when the water level declines and stays below the pump inlet.
Many domestic wells have submersible electric pumps.
Some pump motor bearings are water lubricated. When the pump runs without being submerged in water, the bearings are not lubricated and, consequently, get hot and seize. Some pump motors are oil lubricated, but when pump motors are deprived of the cooling effect of the water, they rapidly overheat and are damaged. Sensing switches are available from suppliers which will turn off the pump when air problems are encountered. These should be installed where practical.