hydraulic ram pump

A hydraulic ram pump is a device that uses the kinetic energy of flowing water to lift a portion of that water to a higher elevation. This is achieved through a cycle involving check valves. When water flows down an inlet pipe, it closes a check valve, creating a sudden stop that converts the water's kinetic energy into pressure energy. This pressure opens a second valve, allowing some water into an air chamber and up a discharge pipe. The pressure then drops, reopening the first valve, and the cycle repeats. This process can raise about 15% of the incoming water to a height five times the original fall. Hydraulic ram pumps were developed in the late 18th century and are still used today.12