Progressive Cavity Pumps for Thickener Underflow
Controlled positive-displacement transfer for concentrated thickener underflow and high-solids mineral slurries where density, viscosity and abrasion can change with process conditions.
Positive displacement for changing underflow consistency
Thickener underflow can vary significantly as bed level, ore characteristics and process conditions change. As solids concentration rises, slurry density and apparent viscosity may increase sharply. Progressive cavity pumps can provide predictable displacement and controlled capacity for pumpable underflow when the pump is selected for the most difficult expected condition rather than only the nominal operating point.
Design around maximum solids and minimum inlet margin
Dense underflow can create substantial suction losses and may exhibit yield stress or settling behavior. Pump displacement, rotational speed, inlet piping and available suction head should therefore be evaluated together. Abrasive particles also influence rotor/stator wear, making unnecessarily high speed undesirable.
Protect the pump during process upsets
Thickener operation can expose the pump to changing feed conditions, periods of reduced inlet flow and increased discharge resistance. Dry-run protection, discharge overpressure protection and suitable variable-speed control should be considered as part of the installation. Where settling is significant, piping geometry and shutdown procedures should minimize stagnant slurry pockets.
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