What is a Slurry Pump? Selection and Types of Slurry Pumps (PDF) – What Is Piping

As the slurry is highly abrasive, thick, corrosive, and contains a high concentration of solids, it is very challenging to move it. For pumps also, it is very tough. But with a proper selection of slurry pumps, the operation can be smooth for long-term performance. In this article, we will discuss the basics of slurry pumps, their working, types, and selection.

What are Slurry Pumps?

Slurry pumps are heavy-duty and robust pumps (majorly centrifugal) that are capable of handling tough and abrasive fluids like slurries.

Some examples of industries that handle slurries are mining, dredging, steel processing, foundries, power generation, drilling mud, pulp and paper, wastewater treatment, mineral processing, etc. Due to the presence of solid particles and their highly thick and viscous nature, slurry movement requires more power than normal fluids. So, specially designed heavy-duty pumps are required to work as slurry pumps.

Selection of Slurry Pumps

There are various types of pumps that can pump slurries. However, the selection of exact slurry pumps depends on some critical considerations as listed below:

• Type of Slurry to be handled including the size and nature of the solid particles present.
• Corrosive property of the slurry mainly to decide pump material for the service.
• Pipe size – the pipe ID must be considerably bigger than the maximum particle size.
• Static head requirements; and
• Available NPSH
• Length of slurry pipe or pipeline
• Pump operating parameters specifically discharge pressure and speed, the lower the better.
• Cost

Slurry Pump Components

There are six basic components in a slurry pump. They are:

• Impeller: Two options to choose from, closed impeller or open impeller.
• Shell: Two options to select from; Solid single-piece or split shells.
• Drive Control: Three types of drive control; Belt drive, gearbox drive, or direct connection of the motor with the shaft.
• Suction plate liner
• Shaft seals: Three design options; Stuffing box, mechanical seal, or expeller.
• Bearing Assembly

Types of Slurry Pumps

Based on the working methodology, there are two types of pumps that are used to handle slurries.