slurry pump open impeller

Slurry pumps are usually larger than standard pumps, have more horsepower and use stronger bearings and shafts. The most common >type of slurry pump is the centrifugal pump. These pumps use a rotating impeller to move the slurry, similar to the way aqueous liquids pass through a standard centrifugal pump.

Slurry Pump

It is also important to consider the chemical compatibility of the slurry with any elastomers in the pump. Once the nature of the slurry and the components of the different types of pumps have been addressed, you can select potential candidate slurry pumps for the application.

As wear is a function of speed, slurry pumps should be operated at the lowest possible speed; units typically run at 1,200 rpm or less. Often, direct coupling between the pump and a low-speed motor or other drive makes the most sense. On the other hand, many other applications favour gearboxes to meet the required speed and operating point. In services where variable flow rates are required, variable frequency drives are used to provide the necessary continuous speed variation.

The basic mechanical seal flushing programme is very simple. It requires that a clear/clean fluid (usually water) is introduced into the space between the actual seal and the impeller side outlet restriction. The flushing fluid is introduced at a pressure higher than the pumping pressure, thus ensuring positive outflow/flushing of the mechanical seal and a clean operating environment.

One of the most frequently asked questions from our team of pump experts is: How do I pump slurry? With this in mind, our team of experts have provided a useful guide to pumping slurry.