As long as mechanical pumps have been around, slurries have presented a unique challenge for plant operators. There are many different types of slurries, depending on the process materials and application. Likewise, there are many different types of specialized slurry pumps for every situation.
What Type of Slurry Are You Processing?
It’s important to match the slurry pump to the slurry being processed, and the specific pumping application at hand. Slurries can come in the form of wastewater, mill discharge, tailings, soils, oils, pulps, and other unique mixes of solids and liquids that are typically difficult to move with a standard pump.
Most slurries fall into one of two categories:
Settling Slurries—Settling slurries containing solids tend to settle out as the mixing energy of the pump ceases. They typically require turbulent flow conditions to handle larger particle sizes and minimize settling that can clog the pump.
Non-Settling Slurries—Non-settling slurries are generally made up of finer particles, which will remain in suspension even when the pump ceases operation. These slurries can be transported under laminar flow conditions.
Built to Last
The best slurry pumps are built with ultra-heavy-duty materials and specially engineered pumping mechanisms. Horizontal slurry pumps and vertical slurry pumps are available depending on the configuration of your plant and available space.
Preventing Blockages and Pump Failures
The biggest challenge presented by slurries is the threat of blockage. This can lead to operational delays and even equipment failure. Every aspect of the application must be reviewed before choosing and configuring a slurry pump that is right for the job. It’s important to determine the type of slurry being processed and run calculations ranging from minimum required transport velocity to pressure drop. Knowing the settling or non-settling properties of any solids and particles in your slurries will go a long way in helping configure the correct slurry pump.
Slurry Pump Maintenance
It’s also important to dial in operating procedures to achieve desired flow rates and velocities, while developing an ongoing maintenance plan that keeps the slurry pump performing at optimal levels. Slurry pumps demand significant attention to keep them running properly and lasting longer. Selecting the right slurry pump for the application is vital, as is performing proper maintenance for the life of the pump.
Slurry Pumps at Cortech DXP
Cortech DXP offers exceptional specialized slurry pumps from top manufacturers, including SEEPEX, Verder, and more. We can help determine which pump is best for your application and get the configuration and maintenance plan dialed in for optimum performance. To learn more about our slurry pump options and service plans, contact Cortech DXP today!