Top 8 Considerations for Selecting a Slurry Pump

Top 8 Considerations for Selecting a Slurry Pump

Top 8 Slurry Pump Considerations

Choosing the right slurry pump for your application can be complex, especially compared to selecting a pump for thinner fluids. A mistake in this selection process can result in a pump that doesn’t perform as required, making it ineffective for your needs.

Contact us to discuss your requirements for High quality slurry pumps. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

1. Know the Material or Fluid Being Pumped

Understanding the type of fluid and its characteristics is essential. Is it a slurry, mud, sand, etc.?

• Fluid viscosity, usually measured in centipoise (CPS)
• Density, measured as specific gravity (Sg)
• The pH level, indicating the hydrogen-ion concentration
• Static and operating temperature

2. Pump Flow Rate

• The pump must exceed the required flow rate to ensure desired performance (e.g., 350 GPM or 200 cu. yards per hour).
• The flow rate must also be above the critical flow rate to keep particles in suspension, preventing them from settling and causing blockages.
• Flow velocity is crucial for keeping the slurry, particles, and solids suspended.

3. Materials of Construction

The materials used to build the pump must be chemically compatible with the fluid. Incompatibility can cause the pump to fail catastrophically and may cause injury and damage. The pump must also handle the abrasive characteristics of the fluid to prevent premature wear.

4. Inlet & Discharge Pipe Considerations

Factors such as pipe length, diameter, and material are crucial in constructing an efficient pumping system.

• Longer pipes require more motor power to push the fluid to its final destination.
• A larger diameter helps reduce discharge head pressure and maintain the velocity necessary to avoid clogging.
• Opt for pipe materials that minimize friction loss and are chemically compatible with the fluid.

5. Motor Power

Higher viscosity and heavy fluids require more motor power, measured in horsepower (HP), to move efficiently. The motor must also overcome forces within the discharge piping, such as bends and upward grades, which create discharge head pressure (measured in PSIG).

6. Pump Operating Cost

Operating costs include not only the energy consumed by the motor but also the expense of moving viscous materials with minimal additional water or fluids. Reducing water usage can significantly cut costs.

7. Pump Elevation

The pump’s positioning is critical. If placed above the liquid to be pumped, it must not exceed its capacity to draw the liquid. If improperly positioned, the pump may not achieve prime or the desired flow rate.

8. Pump Orientation

Pumps come in various orientations, with horizontal and vertical being the most common. Your choice depends on the specific application needs and space constraints. Horizontal pumps are most common, but vertical ones may be better for confined spaces.

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