Slurry pumps increases the pressure of a liquid and solid particle mixture (slurry) to create flow. Operating specifications include maximum discharge flow and maximum discharge pressure, horsepower and brake horsepower, revolutions per minute (RPM) of the motor / pump rotating assembly, and media temperature. Configuration parameters cover inlet size, discharge size, reservoir or tank size, and the number of pumps in the assembly. Slurry pumps also differ in terms of pump features, power source, and product application.

Most slurry pumps use air-cooled, drip-proof, or oil-cooled motors to help dissipate heat. Adjustable models can run at speeds selected by an operator, and may feature a battery backup power supply. Some slurry pumps are belt-driven, close-coupled, or designed for continuous duty. Others are equipped with a control panel, end or bottom suction, and a grinding mechanism for reducing garbage, sewage, rubber goods, plastic bags, or fabrics to very small pieces. Corrosion-resistant, frame-mounted, hygienic, jacketed, and multi-stage slurry pumps are also available.

Features

Features for slurry pumps include leveling (on / off control devices), self-priming, and thermal overload protection. Non-clog, plug-in, reversible, and run dry capable models are also available. With self-priming slurry pumps, a sufficient vacuum is created to draw fluid into the inlet without additional assistance. Non-clog slurry pumps are designed to pump sticky or stingy materials that would clog other types of industrial pumps. Top suction devices are capable of drawing fluid from the top of a tank rather than the bottom of a reservoir. Stator / rotor assembly that stand upright vertically are designed to pump the slurry vertically through the pump.

Slurry pumps are generally made of aluminum, brass or bronze, cast iron, plastic, or stainless steel. Their pump impellers, diaphragms, bladders, and other components are also made of these same materials. Choices may also include ethylene propylene (EPDM), a plastic that offers good resistance to sunlight, weathering and ozone; and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which exhibits a high degree of chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction. Slurry pumps made of specialty or proprietary materials are also available.  

Power Source

Power source is an important specification to consider when selecting slurry pumps. Choices include alternating current (AC), direct current (DC), hydraulic, and air-driven or pneumatic. Slurry pumps that are powered by steam, natural gas, water, or a gasoline or diesel engine are also available. Manual slurry pumps rely upon hand or foot power.