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Slurry pumps are heavy, robust centrifugal pumps designed to handle tough and abrasive duties

Although slurry pumps are imperative facets of mine sites, it is relatively common to find pumps operating inefficiently, or in ways that reduce the lifespan of the equipment. Improving the efficiency of your slurry pump not only requires the correct specification and selection of the pump, but also to ensure they are operated correctly over the long term.

 How to handle slurry in a demanding application

These pumps are required to transport large quantities of slurry, which is composed of minerals and particles suspended in fluid, to a mineral extraction process plant. Slurry pumps must therefore be able to handle the abrasive solids in the slurry, and in some instances, corrosive fluids.

Slurry pumps are usually operated 24/7, which can often result in reduced wear life of wetted components if they are not suitable for the specific application. Any failure of inefficiency in slurry pumping can have significant repercussions for the entire plant and project, which in turn affects the overall profitability of the mining operations.

To optimise the efficiency of your slurry pump, it is recommended to:

• Specify and select the right pump and other equipment with your application in mind.
• Ensure the pump is operating at its best efficiency point (BEP) flow rate.
• Regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent any unplanned outages, declining performance or inefficiencies