The city of New Orleans is situated below sea-level, and therefore depends on a levee system to remove excessive rainfall. In the city three massive pump stations feature ABB vertical gearmotors that turn the pumps, which can transfer 11 million gallons per minute – enough to empty an Olympic-size swimming pool in less than four seconds. In the event of storm surges the pumping stations quickly move water from the canal system that makes its way through the city and evacuate it into Lake Ponchatrain.

A total of 17 vertical gearmotors (7 x 2,500, 10 x 5,000 horsepower) are distributed over the three pumping stations. Vertical gearmotors are optimal for pumping—their smaller physical size reduces the footprint, while bringing the advantages of low-pole motor efficiency and power factor, and greater reliability.

Select region & language

New Orleans flood protection

Did you know…

ABB vertical gearmotors help protect New Orleans from flooding?

More fascinating facts you may not know